Bgee Kunjumon, MD

My journey into neonatology was profoundly influenced by my mother, a dedicated neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. Watching her care for vulnerable infants inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in the lives of families. My passion for science and my desire to understand the complexities of neonatal care further fueled my commitment to becoming a neonatologist.

With over 15 years of training, including a fellowship at NYU, I now serve as director of neonatology in Brooklyn, providing care in Manhattan as well. I am dedicated to offering exceptional, family-centered care to a diverse patient population, ensuring that every newborn receives the best start in life. As director, I oversee a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and focus on quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes. Additionally, I serve on several hospital committees, collaborating with colleagues to drive initiatives that elevate the overall quality of care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was particularly concerned about the implications for newborns and their mothers. This concern led me to conduct research on the safety of breast milk in mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in the largest sample study on the topic at that time. I take pride in knowing that my findings provided reassurance to many families during such an uncertain period.

Building relationships with my patients and their families is at the heart of my work, as I believe compassion is just as crucial as clinical expertise in this setting. Every day, I am motivated by the impact we can have on the lives of these infants and their families, carrying forward the legacy of care that my mother instilled in me.

With a focus on evidence-based practices, quality improvement, and compassionate, family-centered care, I strive to advance the field of neonatology and advocate for both my patients and my fellow healthcare professionals.