Pediatric Surgical Suites

The future of pediatric surgical excellence at Dignity Health - Memorial Hospital

Ground has been broken to commence the construction phase of the new Pediatric Surgical Suites at the Lauren Small Children’s Center at Memorial Hospital. Expected to open in the winter of 2025, this expansion represents Dignity Health’s commitment to providing the highest level of pediatric specialty care for children in and around Kern County. This project ensures that children and their families will have access to specialized medical attention without the need for long-distance travel.

The Pediatric Surgical Suites Project includes:

• Two dedicated pediatric surgical suites 

• 5,000-square-foot expansion of the current Lauren Small Children’s Center

• Pediatric pre- and post-anesthesia care unit

• Dedicated surgical support spaces, including nurses station, equipment storage space, and environmental services space

• Dedicated reception and waiting areas

• Recruitment of two resident pediatric surgeons 

• Additional medical and administrative support staff

Made possible by grant funding and community support

This transformative venture was made possible through a $15 million grant from the Children’s Hospital Program of 2018. These funds are dedicated to advancing comprehensive pediatric services in Kern County and improving healthcare accessibility for eligible children, including those from underserved populations. Additionally, through the Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Foundation, generous donors and community partners contributed $2.6 million towards this noble cause. The project represents a $23 million investment in the health care of local children.

The Pediatric Surgical Suites Project joins the existing comprehensive lineup of pediatric services available at the Lauren Small Children’s Center at Memorial Hospital:

• Pediatric acute care

• Pediatric intensive care

• Dedicated pediatric ER (Robert A. Grimm Children’s Pavilion for Emergency Services)

• Neonatal intensive care

• High-risk infant follow-up program

The Lauren Small Children’s Center is a member of the nationally recognized Children’s Miracle Network hospitals family.

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