The Children’s Hospital Association of Texas recently honored Texas Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa for his dedication to improving healthcare for children. The award was presented during a ribbon-cutting event at the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, Texas. The event marked the opening of the first freestanding designated children’s hospital in the Valley, a significant milestone for the community.
During the event, attendees had the opportunity to hear from Driscoll leadership about the hospital’s impact on the region. Eric Hamon, President & CEO of Driscoll Health System, expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future of the hospital, emphasizing the importance of providing quality care for children in the Rio Grande Valley. Matt Wolthoff, President of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, highlighted the hospital’s rapid growth and the need for expansion to accommodate the increasing demand for services.
Senator Hinojosa, whose district includes Edinburg and the new hospital, was recognized by the Children’s Hospital Association of Texas with a “Children’s Health Care Hero Award” for his advocacy in the legislature. Stacy E. Wilson, President of the association, commended Hinojosa for his efforts to improve healthcare access for children and mothers in the state. Hinojosa, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the award and credited the entire South Texas delegation and community for their support.
The Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley boasts impressive statistics, including 119 pediatric beds, eight surgery suite operating rooms, and over 30 pediatric medical and surgical specialties. The hospital operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing acute care for children in the region. With a construction and equipment cost of $100 million, the hospital represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of the community.
Driscoll Children’s Hospital has been a pillar of healthcare in South Texas since 1953, offering care at two freestanding designated children’s hospitals and specialty centers across the region. The organization’s non-profit community-based health plan, Driscoll Health Plan, ensures that Texas families have access to local physicians and essential healthcare services.
Overall, the ribbon-cutting event at the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley was a celebration of progress and dedication to improving healthcare for children in the Rio Grande Valley. The recognition of Senator Hinojosa’s advocacy serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and support in advancing healthcare initiatives for the benefit of all.