Apr 26 2013
Loyola University Health System's emergency room just got a little more kid-friendly with the opening a pediatric fast-track which will help provide better patient flow and satisfaction.
"Our goal is that this new track will provide a more effective and comfortable environment for parents and children," said Jerold Stirling, MD, medical director of the Ronald McDonald Children's Hospital at Loyola University Medical Center and chair Department of Pediatrics at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine.
Housed in a clinical area adjacent to the emergency department the pediatric fast-track will be staffed with board-certified pediatricians and will be open 7 days a week from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Patients will be triaged through the emergency room. Pediatric patients with lower acute illnesses will be sent to the fast track.
"This will enable us to process pediatric patients through the ER quicker as well as allow our ER physicians more time to focus on those who have more serious illnesses and injuries," Stirling said.
Parents and children will spend minimal time in the ER waiting area. As soon as they are triaged they will be sent to a different waiting area that is similar to a pediatrician's office setting, providing a more comfortable, kid-friendly environment.
"We are dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients and community by offering a higher level of service," Stirling said.
Loyola University Health System
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