Exciting New Pediatric Specialty Clinic Opens in Marshall

Exciting New Pediatric Specialty Clinic Opens in Marshall

MARSHALL — A sunny and inviting day set the perfect backdrop on Monday as Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting of its new pediatric specialty clinic. This exciting partnership with Shriners Children’s Hospital marks a significant milestone for the healthcare community in East Texas.

A Commitment to Exceptional Care

Hospital officials enthusiastically shared that the new clinic will serve as a crucial resource for pediatric orthopedic needs, as well as care for cleft lips and palates and burn reconstruction. With a number of families in East Texas and the surrounding regions requiring specialized care, this development is a fantastic opportunity for the community.

“Today we celebrate collaboration, innovation, and shared dedication to bringing exceptional specialty care to children of East Texas,” said Mary Glendening, the administrator for Shriners Children’s southern market. Glendening emphasized that the clinic represents Shriners Children’s commitment to expanding their mission to children who need care the most.

Making Dreams a Reality

The celebration brought together local leaders, physicians, hospital staff, and Shriners administrators, as Christus Good Shepherd Administrator Michael Creek acknowledged the role of Chief Nurse Kathy Redler in making this dream come true. “She came to me several years ago with the thought of ‘what if?’” Creek remarked, highlighting how some good ideas take time and persistence to materialize.

He explained that the values of Christus Health, focusing on extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, perfectly align with those of Shriners Children’s, making the collaboration straightforward and meaningful. “And so we’re here — we made it,” Creek announced with pride, expressing hopes that this clinic could lead to even more significant developments in the future.

Access Made Easier for Families

The new pediatric specialty clinic within the Marshall hospital is the result of teamwork from Shriners Children’s Shreveport and Shriners Children’s Texas. With this new setup, the organizations aim to boost access to their specialty services, making it easier for families who previously had to travel far for follow-up visits or initial care.

The plan is to conduct clinics every other week, with a rotation between pediatric orthopedic care and cleft lip/palate care. Additionally, Shriners Children’s Texas will host quarterly clinics focused on pediatric burn reconstruction. The outreach will involve a dedicated team traveling from Shriners facilities, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and care managers.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The clinic will feature three patient rooms, a welcoming waiting area, a registration space, a nurse’s station, and a private office for medical staff. Availability of necessary specialty services, like radiology and lab work, will also help families streamline their healthcare visits.

Creek shared his excitement for the partnership, noting that the clinic has already begun serving families that previously faced long journeys to see a physician. “It’s a big process,” Creek explained, “and so if we can be a small part and make that a little bit easier, then we feel like we’re living out our mission as well.”

A Bright Future Ahead

As the ribbon was cut, the atmosphere buzzed with hope and anticipation. This new pediatric specialty clinic is not just a facility; it symbolizes a deeper commitment to enhancing healthcare for children in the area.

As families in East Texas embrace this exciting development, it’s clear that the partnership between Christus Health and Shriners Children’s Hospital holds the promise of a brighter future for pediatric care in the community.

With the sun shining brightly and the community coming together, this new beginning is indeed something worth celebrating!