Core Insights - The article highlights the increasing challenges faced by pediatric care, particularly in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), due to rising rates of preterm births and associated complications [1][2][3] Group 1: Challenges in Neonatal Care - The incidence of critical conditions in newborns has risen due to factors such as advanced maternal age, twin pregnancies, and the use of assisted reproductive technologies [1][2] - The survival rate of preterm infants has improved, but they often face long-term complications, including neurological issues [1][2] - The proportion of extremely low birth weight preterm infants in NICUs has increased, correlating with maternal health issues and advanced reproductive techniques [2] Group 2: Healthcare System Response - Major children's hospitals in Shanghai have invested significantly in neonatal care, establishing new centers to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of severe neonatal conditions [2] - AI technology is being developed to assist in neonatal care, improving the prediction and management of risks associated with preterm infants [3] - The government has recognized the challenges in pediatric care and is increasing support for public hospitals, although the nurse-to-patient ratio in NICUs remains lower than in adult ICUs [3][4] Group 3: Trends in Pediatric Healthcare - Despite increased investment in pediatric care, the overall scale of pediatric departments in public hospitals has contracted, with some regions experiencing a drop in patient numbers by over 50% compared to the peak birth rates following the two-child policy [4] - The ideal future for pediatric care involves improving the tiered medical system and leveraging private hospitals to complement public healthcare resources [4]