Myrtle Beach — Grand Strand Health expands its Pediatrics Services with the addition of a dedicated Pediatric ER, called Children's Care ER at Grand Strand Medical Center. Children needing emergency services find comfort in our ocean themed Whale Bay, another name for our Children's Care ER, which stands for We Have A Little Emergency. "Expanding pediatric services is essential for a growing community that encompasses visitors year round," states Dr. Rebecca Matthews, Pediatric Emergency Medical Director for Grand Strand Health. "This gives families the opportunity to stay local and not travel for most children services."

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Inpatient Unit have specialty-trained pediatric nurses available to care for young patients from birth to 18 years of age. The family-centered care promotes optimal recovery and includes all-private rooms and an area for a family member to stay with the child 24/7 along with individualized treatment plans designed to meet the unique needs of each patient.

With expanding services for children, a new member has joined our health care team as a Child Life Specialist. The primary focus for our Child Life Specialist is the emotional support and development of children. Child Life Specialists have a background in child development and clinical training to provide children with the tools they need to manage challenging aspects of hospitalization and other life changing events. They work to create a therapeutic relationship with every child and family we encounter, enhancing the quality of care and respecting individual family dynamics.