Palisades Medical Center (PMC) held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, March 28 for their new Pediatric Unit that became fully operational at 1 p.m. The new unit was reconstructed for young patients, with elegant, comfortable rooms that were designed to further enhance the healing process. It also includes four additional patient beds, a playroom, and a new security system.
“Our new Pediatrics Unit will feature a better healing environment for our youngest patients with patient-focused amenities, including areas for family games and activities,” said President and CEO of PMC Bruce J. Markowitz in a press release. “The new unit will enable our Pediatrics Department to better manage its resources and services to ensure a specialized, child-friendly environment is always available for our community.”
Years in the making
PMC has experienced a 77-percent increase in pediatric patients over the years, making a new unit imperative. According to Markowitz, the unit cost $1 million to build, half of it raised by donations.
The hospital got input from the community and medical staff to create the Pediatrics Unit.
“The growth and the support for Palisades Medical Center and the Pediatric Unit surpassed what we even expected,” said Markowitz at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “There’s a strong need in the community for pediatric services.”
Last year’s affiliation agreement with Hackensack University Health Network (HackensackUHN) allows both entities to collaborate and expand clinical programs. PMC was also able to reorganize its Neonatal Level 2 Nursery. The Neonatal Level 2 Nursery provides 24/7 neonatology services and enables PMC’s Maternity Center to effectively address clinically complex cases.
“Caring for our kids is our most important duty as physicians.” – Omar Baker, MD of Riverside Pediatric Group
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Vanessa Cruz can be reached at vcruz@hudsonreporter.com