Morehead, Ky. (Feb. 27, 2026) — Families in Morehead and nearby areas are set to gain improved access to specialized pediatric care as UK HealthCare partners with UK St. Claire. This collaboration is part of the Golisano Children’s at UK Affiliate Network, aimed at enhancing pediatric services statewide.
UK St. Claire joined UK HealthCare in 2024. This partnership allows local pediatric providers to connect better with specialists at Golisano Children’s Hospital, ensuring continuity of care for young patients. St. Claire has a history of collaboration with UK, dating back to the 1960s. They established the Rural Physician Leadership Program, a significant initiative designed to strengthen the healthcare workforce in northeastern Kentucky.
Dr. Scottie B. Day, physician-in-chief at UK Golisano Children’s, emphasizes the goal of this partnership: “We want to make sure high-quality pediatric care is available, regardless of where families live.” By working together with local teams, the community can access specialized expertise without traveling far.
The partnership opens doors to a wealth of pediatric resources. Healthcare providers at UK St. Claire will receive ongoing training and support from experts in Lexington, helping them deliver better care locally.
Don Lloyd, CEO of UK St. Claire, expressed gratitude for this partnership: “Caring for children is crucial. This affiliation enables us to keep pediatric care in our community while building on the trust we’ve established over the years.”
Key benefits of the affiliate network include:
– Specialized training and education for pediatric care.
– Instant consultations with specialists.
– Guidance on best practices in pediatric care.
– Opportunities for peer learning.
– Participation in statewide pediatric conferences.
– Support in managing patient transfers.
Christina Briggs, director of the UK Golisano Children’s affiliate network, shared her excitement about the partnership. “Together, we can improve kids’ health and ensure that physicians stay updated with the latest protocols through continuous education.”
This announcement marks an essential step in UK St. Claire’s mission to expand healthcare access in Eastern Kentucky. With over sixty years of collaboration, the health system is not only enhancing its provider network but also broadening specialty services to cater to community needs more effectively.
According to recent studies, access to specialized pediatric care is vital for reducing health disparities in rural areas. Families often face challenges related to distance, which can lead to delays in treatment. By increasing local resources, UK St. Claire’s involvement in the affiliate network aims to bridge this gap, ensuring that every child in the region can receive timely and quality care.
In summary, this partnership reflects a shared commitment to the well-being of children in Kentucky. The collaboration promises to make pediatric health services more accessible, improving health outcomes for families in the community.
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