(Madera, California) – Valley Children’s extracorporeal life support (ECLS) program joins an elite group of only 16 ECLS centers worldwide recognized as a Designated Platinum Center of Excellence by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO). Valley Children’s ECLS program is the only one of its kind in the Central Valley for infants and children, providing lifesaving treatment for failing heart and/or lung function.
The ELSO Award recognizes centers worldwide that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to evidence-based processes and quality measures, staff training and continuing education, patient satisfaction and ongoing clinical care. Valley Children’s patient outcomes have been in the top 10% to 15% in the world compared to other ELSO centers.
“Providing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, care to a critically ill infant or child is incredibly challenging, but often vital if we are to save a life, which is why I am so proud to work alongside such a committed and caring group of outstanding physicians, nurses and staff,” says Dr. Harry Kallas, Valley Children’s ECLS medical director. “ECMO treatment could be that last hope of survival for a critically ill child, so to have the trust of our families is something we do not take lightly. This award is a testament to the commitment we have always had and will continue to have when providing lifesaving care to kids.”
Valley Children’s was the first hospital (adult, pediatric or neonatal) to perform ECLS in the Central Valley. ECLS is one of the most advanced forms of life support available to patients experiencing potentially reversible acute failure of the cardio-respiratory system that is not responding to other therapies. The ECMO machine assumes the roles of the lungs and heart by providing oxygen and blood flow to the body, allowing these organs to rest and heal over a period of time, increasing chances for recovery.
“We are honored to be the recipient of such a prestigious award for the lifesaving services our critical care team provides to kids each and every day,” says Dr. David Christensen, Valley Children’s senior vice president, chief physician executive and Medical Group president. “The ELSO award is a testament to the renowned expertise of our staff, and their dedication to improving the health of kids throughout the Central Valley and beyond.”
This designation is one of many distinguished recognitions Valley Children’s has received that reinforces the pediatric healthcare network’s commitment to excellence. Valley Children’s was the first children’s hospital west of the Rockies to receive Magnet Nursing designation, the highest nursing benchmark in the world. Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report again named Valley Children’s one of the Best Children’s Hospitals in the country in six pediatric specialties. Valley Children’s was also recently recognized as Hospital of the Month in October for demonstrating outstanding work in pediatric patient safety by Children’s Hospitals’ Solutions for Patient Safety.