New Pediatric Observation Unit opens at Chilliwack General Hospital

Having health concerns can be a scary time for a child and their parents. But a new Pediatric Observation Unit at Chilliwack General Hospital will make it a little easier with specialized care and a child-friendly environment.

“As parents we want nothing more than for our children to have access to the best supports when they are sick,” said Chilliwack MLA John Martin. “This new unit in Chilliwack will help do just that by streamlining care for the youngest patients and ensuring the entire care team can work seamlessly together to provide the very best health care.”

“Our Government has made it a priority to ensure that our health care system puts the needs of patients first,” said Chilliwack-Hope MLA Laurie Throness. “This new unit is a perfect example of that. It will provide a more soothing and healing environment for young patients and their families.”

The new Rotary Club of Chilliwack-Fraser Pediatric Observation Centre is a four bed unit that will support children who require 24-hour observation, an overnight stay at the hospital or outpatient services such as dressing changes, wound care, tube feeding or IV therapy. The unit provides child-friendly expert care in collaboration with family physicians and the emergency department.

“While some children will still begin their journey in the emergency department, we are now able to quickly transfer them to an environment with specialized pediatric nurses and pediatricians to attend to their care needs,” said Petra Pardy, executive director, Chilliwack Health Service Area and Chilliwack General Hospital.

“This is an exciting day for families and children in Chilliwack,” said Loraine Jenkins, executive director, Maternal, Infant, Child and Youth Services, Fraser Health. “This model of care is proven to provide more timely access to pediatric services.”

Fraser Health provided funding for ongoing operations and some renovations, while the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation funded equipment and the child-friendly décor with the help of organizations including the Rotary Club of Chilliwack-Fraser, Chilliwack Hospital Auxiliary, Fraser Valley Shrine Club #11 and Kiwanis Club of Sardis.

“We know how upsetting it can be for both children and their parents when they are dealing with a health issue. We believe an inviting setting and the right equipment can go a long way to lessening the challenges,” said Liz Harris, executive director, Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation. “This couldn’t have been possible without the help of our dedicated community partners, who contributed funds to make this a reality.”

The Rotary Club of Chilliwack-Fraser Pediatric Observation Centre is modelled after the successful pilot launched at Ridge Meadows Hospital in 2013 which has seen more than 1800 pediatric visits a year since opening.