Kimberly Ernst, M.D.

About

Kimberly Ernst, M.D., is a dedicated neonatologist with more than 25 years of experience. Born in Missouri and raised in Oklahoma and Arkansas, she began volunteering at a local hospital at age 14. She earned an undergraduate degree in psychology before earning a medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She completed additional training in pediatrics and neonatal-perinatal medicine, equipping her to support newborns and their families during critical moments.

Dr. Ernst has been an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and helped write the manual for neonatal resuscitation used by health care providers internationally. She also played a vital role in developing online simulations that changed the way babies are resuscitated at birth.

As a professor of pediatrics at University of Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, Dr. Ernst shared her knowledge with future health care professionals. Her research has focused on neonatal nutrition, striving to get specialized products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to improve outcomes for infants across the United States. Driven by her patients' experiences, she developed a particular interest in intestinal rehabilitation. Her expertise in this area has made her a sought-after consultant, providing guidance to physicians nationwide.

Dr. Ernst moved to Springfield in 2021 to take the position of NICU Medical Director. She enjoys working to improve neonatal care in southwestern Missouri and balancing time with her family. Beyond her medical pursuits, she enjoys traveling, nature photography, volunteering at animal shelters, completing jigsaw puzzles, conducting genealogy research and watching true crime shows.