When your child is not feeling well, it is hard to think clearly on what is the best course of action to take. This has led to an increase in the number of non-emergency patients that visit the ED. Although the ED is designed mainly for emergencies, we understand that many times urgent, but not life-threatening, care is sought here. Patients that enter the ED are seen according to the severity of the condition as determined by our trained triage nurse. This translates to the sickest children being seen first.
To accommodate the less acute illnesses, Miami Children's Hospital's Emergency Department has created the Rapid Care Center. Children who are evaluated as having a minor emergency and not a life-threatening condition are directed to the Rapid Care Center where a dedicated staff will care for their medical needs. This allows the Emergency Department to concentrate on children who are suffering from serious injuries or conditions. By separating major from minor emergencies, kids get in and out faster.
Because most doctors' offices are closed in the evenings, the Rapid Care Center offers nighttime hours. The center treats a variety of children's medical conditions from ear infections and stomach aches, to broken bones, and cuts that need stitches.
Additional Emergency Department Resources
MCH Emergency Department StaffRapid Care Center Main
Emergency Department page