Introduction
CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care, located in Chesapeake, is a specialized medical facility dedicated to providing timely, comprehensive care for children who require urgent attention outside of traditional emergency department hours. The center operates as part of the Chesapeake Health Group, a network of community health services focused on delivering accessible, high-quality medical care to families across the region. With a mission to address acute pediatric health concerns while minimizing wait times and fostering a child‑friendly environment, CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care serves as a critical resource for parents, guardians, and children in need of immediate medical attention.
History and Background
The Chesapeake Health Group (CHKD) was established in the early 2000s to expand primary care access in Chesapeake and surrounding counties. Recognizing a gap in pediatric urgent care services, the group launched the pediatric urgent care division in 2010, integrating it with existing outpatient facilities. Over the years, the center has evolved to incorporate advanced diagnostic tools, electronic health record systems, and evidence‑based clinical protocols. The facility’s growth has been guided by community health needs assessments, partnership with local hospitals, and adherence to national quality standards for urgent care practices.
Founding Principles
From its inception, CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care was designed around five core principles: accessibility, quality, child‑centred care, efficiency, and community integration. These principles inform everything from appointment scheduling policies to the design of waiting areas that accommodate children’s developmental needs. The center’s founding leadership emphasized collaboration with local schools, pediatric practices, and health educators to create a seamless continuum of care for children of all ages.
Evolution of Services
Initially focused on common acute illnesses such as upper respiratory infections, ear infections, and minor injuries, the center broadened its scope in response to emerging community health trends. Expanded services now include management of chronic conditions during urgent episodes, preventive care, and point‑of‑care testing. The introduction of telehealth capabilities in 2018 further extended the center’s reach, allowing families to receive remote consultations when in‑person visits are impractical.
Location and Facilities
The pediatric urgent care facility occupies a dedicated wing within the Chesapeake Health Group’s main outpatient campus. The campus is situated at a central location that is easily accessible by major highways and public transportation routes. The facility’s design prioritizes safety, comfort, and efficient patient flow, incorporating child‑friendly décor, interactive play areas, and clear signage.
Address and Parking
The center’s address is 1234 Health Avenue, Chesapeake, VA 23320. Parking is available on-site in a multi‑level garage, with reserved spaces for patients with mobility challenges. Nearby street parking and public transportation options provide additional convenience for families traveling from surrounding regions.
Facility Design and Patient Flow
Layout of the building follows a streamlined patient journey model. Upon arrival, families check in at a reception desk staffed by friendly nurses who assist with registration. The waiting area is partitioned into child and adult sections to reduce anxiety and streamline movement. Dedicated exam rooms are equipped with age‑appropriate medical equipment, and a separate space is reserved for laboratory and imaging services. The design allows for rapid triage, reducing overall waiting times and improving patient satisfaction.
Services Offered
CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care offers a broad spectrum of medical services tailored to children aged 0 to 17 years. Services are grouped into several categories, each addressing distinct healthcare needs.
Primary Urgent Care
Primary urgent care includes evaluation and treatment for acute infections, fevers, ear and sinus issues, mild traumatic injuries, and allergic reactions. Staff employ evidence‑based guidelines for diagnosis and management, ensuring consistent, high‑quality care. For patients requiring more extensive evaluation, referrals to specialty physicians or the on‑site emergency department are made promptly.
Specialty Services
The center maintains a partnership network with pediatric specialists in orthopedics, dermatology, and infectious disease. When conditions exceed the scope of urgent care, families receive coordinated care through the partnership network. This arrangement reduces the need for multiple visits, streamlining care coordination.
Imaging and Diagnostics
On‑site radiology services include digital X‑ray and ultrasound imaging. Point‑of‑care testing covers basic laboratory panels, rapid strep testing, and influenza diagnostics. These diagnostics aid in accurate, timely diagnoses and support appropriate treatment decisions.
Laboratory Services
Laboratory services are provided on the second floor of the campus, offering complete blood counts, metabolic panels, and urinalysis. Results are integrated directly into the electronic health record, allowing clinicians immediate access to lab data during the clinical encounter.
Vaccinations and Preventive Care
Vaccination services are available for routine immunizations and catch‑up schedules. Preventive care includes growth and developmental monitoring, nutrition counseling, and health education. The center collaborates with school health programs to support vaccination compliance and health screenings.
Staff and Clinical Team
The clinical team at CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care is composed of experienced physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals dedicated to delivering specialized pediatric care. The workforce is supported by administrative staff and support personnel who ensure efficient operations.
Medical Professionals
Physicians are board‑certified pediatricians or family medicine physicians with a strong background in urgent care. Many hold additional subspecialty training in areas such as pediatric emergency medicine, ensuring comprehensive expertise in handling diverse pediatric conditions.
Support Staff
Registered nurses perform triage, vitals, and patient education. Licensed practical nurses assist with minor procedures and follow‑up instructions. The support team includes a medical assistant for charting and a pharmacist for medication dispensing. Administrative staff manage scheduling, billing, and patient inquiries.
Technology and Equipment
Modern technology underpins clinical operations at CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care. The center uses advanced diagnostic tools, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and telehealth platforms to improve patient care and streamline workflow.
Electronic Health Records
The facility employs a regional EHR platform that consolidates patient data across all Chesapeake Health Group facilities. Integration enables seamless sharing of diagnostic results, medication histories, and care plans. The EHR incorporates clinical decision support alerts for medication interactions, age‑appropriate vaccine schedules, and referral prompts.
Telehealth Options
Since 2018, the center has offered video and telephone consultations for conditions that can be managed remotely. Telehealth visits provide flexibility for families, reducing the need for in‑person visits for low‑risk conditions or follow‑ups. Telehealth encounters are documented in the EHR, maintaining continuity of care.
Clinical Decision Support
Embedded decision support tools guide clinicians through evidence‑based protocols for common pediatric emergencies. For example, the system offers step‑by‑step management algorithms for asthma exacerbations, dehydration assessment, and ear infections. Alerts remind clinicians of potential adverse reactions or required follow‑ups, enhancing patient safety.
Insurance, Payment, and Billing
Financial accessibility is a priority for the facility. CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care accepts a range of insurance plans and offers transparent billing practices. Patients also have access to financial assistance for uninsured or under‑insured individuals.
Accepted Insurance Plans
The center accepts most major commercial plans, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). In addition, it participates in various state and local health initiatives that provide coverage for low‑income families. The billing team verifies coverage before treatment, reducing out‑of‑pocket costs for families.
Payment Options and Financial Assistance
Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and patient‑controlled insurance portals. For patients without insurance or with limited coverage, the facility offers sliding‑scale fee structures and payment plans. A dedicated financial counselor assists families in navigating insurance benefits and financial aid opportunities.
Patient Experience and Care Process
The patient journey at CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care is designed to be efficient, reassuring, and supportive. The process encompasses appointment scheduling, check‑in, clinical evaluation, and follow‑up, with each step supported by clear protocols.
Appointment Scheduling
Families can schedule appointments through a phone line or an online portal. Walk‑in care is also available; however, scheduled visits reduce wait times. The scheduling system flags urgent cases, ensuring timely triage.
Check‑In Process
Upon arrival, families are directed to the front desk where staff confirm identity and insurance information. The process incorporates a brief triage interview that captures symptom severity and relevant medical history. Children are greeted in a play area that distracts and calms during waiting times.
Clinical Evaluation
During evaluation, physicians conduct a focused history and physical examination, utilizing age‑appropriate techniques. Diagnostic tests are performed on‑site or ordered electronically. Treatment plans include medication prescription, home care instructions, or referrals as necessary.
Follow‑Up and Discharge
At discharge, clinicians review treatment plans with families, emphasizing medication adherence and monitoring. For conditions requiring ongoing care, follow‑up appointments are scheduled in advance. Patients receive discharge summaries electronically, facilitating communication with primary care providers.
Quality and Safety Initiatives
CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care employs rigorous quality improvement frameworks to maintain high standards of care. The facility regularly evaluates patient outcomes, processes, and safety metrics, incorporating feedback into continuous improvement.
Accreditation and Certification
The center holds accreditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) and meets the Joint Commission’s standards for pediatric urgent care. These accreditations attest to compliance with safety, quality, and operational excellence criteria.
Clinical Protocols
Standardized clinical protocols are used to guide diagnosis and treatment of common pediatric conditions. Protocols are reviewed annually and updated based on the latest evidence and local epidemiology. This systematic approach minimizes variation and supports consistent care delivery.
Patient Safety Programs
Key safety initiatives include medication error prevention systems, infection control protocols, and adverse event reporting mechanisms. The center actively monitors hand hygiene compliance, applies universal precautions, and follows guidelines for sterilization of instruments. Incident reporting is mandatory and reviewed by a multidisciplinary safety committee.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Beyond clinical services, CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care participates in community health promotion. Outreach efforts target schools, community organizations, and public health campaigns.
School Partnerships
The center collaborates with local schools to provide on‑site health screenings, flu vaccination clinics, and health education sessions. Teachers and school nurses receive training on early identification of health issues, creating a bridge between school health and urgent care services.
Health Education Programs
Educational seminars covering topics such as asthma management, nutrition, and injury prevention are offered to parents and children. The program is designed to empower families with knowledge and encourage preventive health behaviors.
Research and Clinical Trials
While not a primary research institution, CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care participates in select community‑based clinical trials and quality improvement studies. Participation is facilitated through partnerships with regional universities and the Chesapeake Health Group’s research consortium.
Future Development Plans
The center is planning to expand its services to address emerging health priorities. Proposed developments include a dedicated pediatric telehealth hub, expansion of chronic disease management programs, and incorporation of advanced imaging modalities. These initiatives aim to enhance access, reduce care fragmentation, and improve health outcomes for children in the Chesapeake area.
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