March 20, 2009

Methodist Emergency Department Gains State Recognition

Peoria, Illinois (March 20, 2009)-The Emergency Department of Methodist Medical Center as been recognized by the Illinois Department of Public Health as an Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics (EDAP).

The three-year certification recognizes hospitals that enhance their emergency departments to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients. Methodist Emergency Department Service Line Director, Anthony Howard said, "Emergencies sometimes come in small packages. Pediatric patients require specialized care and as part of our commitment to caring for families of all ages, we have voluntarily achieved designation from the State of Illinois as an Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics."

In addition to being a Level II Trauma Center, the pediatric designation indicates that Methodist has specially trained staff, equipment and supplies needed to effectively provide emergency care for children, including nurses who have completed specialized pediatric training.

Howard said, "Methodist is proud to have the highly skilled nursing and physician staff that has allowed us to add this state designation."