Kentucky Children’s Hospital launches pediatric affiliate network; Georgetown Community Hospital first to join

Kentucky Children’s Hospital has launched a new affiliate network, connecting community hospitals across the state to expert pediatric care. Georgetown Community Hospital signed on as the first official affiliate in March, according to a University of Kentucky news release.

“We’re proud to expand our partnership with UK HealthCare through the new Kentucky Children’s Hospital Network,” said Clifford Wilson, CEO of Georgetown Community Hospital and market president of Lifepoint Central Kentucky. “From oncology to heart and stroke care, UK HealthCare’s affiliate networks are at the core of several of our specialty services. This collaboration ensures our patients have access to advanced care when needed, while still being able to return home for follow-up and recovery close to their families.”

The Kentucky Children’s Hospital Affiliate Network is among the first in the country to be centered on pediatric care.

“The vision of the KCH Affiliate Network is that no matter where a child is born geographically in the state, that they will have the same access to high-quality pediatric care as those born in larger cities,” Dr. Scottie B. Day, physician-in-chief for the children’s hospital, said in the release.

Christina Briggs, director of the KCH Affiliate Network, said UK HealthCare already has hospitals across the state that are willing to care for kids in their own communities.

“In short, our vision is to provide families with high-quality pediatric care in their local communities,” she said.