Newsworthy

As pediatric care services change across the region, Stormont Vail Health is reaffirming its long-standing commitment to caring for critically ill children through its Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

Stormont Vail Health’s PICU continues to provide specialized, 24/7 critical care for infants, children, and teens, delivered by an experienced interdisciplinary team dedicated to safety, compassion, and clinical excellence. The unit serves families across northeast Kansas, ensuring access to high-level pediatric critical care close to home.

“Our community needs to know that when a child requires the highest level of care, Stormont Vail is here,” said Ashley Baumchen, director of inpatient maternal child services at Stormont Vail Health.

“Our PICU team is specially trained to care for critically ill children and to support families during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. That commitment has not changed.”

Stormont Vail’s PICU features private rooms with secure access, round‑the‑clock pediatric intensivist coverage, and a coordinated care approach that includes pediatric pharmacists, respiratory therapists, child life specialists, social workers, and case management professionals.

The care team collaborates closely with pediatric subspecialists to ensure comprehensive, patient‑focused treatment.

“We are proud to continue providing this vital service for children and families throughout northeast Kansas,” Rachel Ault, nurse manager of pediatrics and adolescents said. “Access matters—especially when it comes to pediatric critical care.”

Families and referring providers can learn more about Stormont Vail Health’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and referral process at Pediatric Critical Care at Stormont Vail.