Pediatrics
The Pediatrics Department at JDWNRH is dedicated to the healthcare of children up to the age of twelve, providing specialized care to support their physical and emotional well-being. With a commitment to excellence, the department aims to deliver compassionate medical care, train the next generation of pediatricians, and contribute to various public health initiatives in Bhutan.
The department accommodates 74 inpatient beds, including 12 ICU beds, and offers services ranging from general outpatient care to critical care in the Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Units.
Vision
- To enhance the health and quality of life for children in Bhutan through accessible, compassionate, and high-quality pediatric care.
Mission
- To provide comprehensive, quality care for children with acute, chronic, and critical health needs.
- To support pediatric education and training for healthcare professionals.
- To collaborate with public health programs and extend technical expertise nationwide.
Our Values
- Compassion: Emphasizing patient-centered care and empathy.
- Excellence: Maintaining high standards in pediatric care and service.
- Collaboration: Working with healthcare programs to improve child health outcomes.
- Growth: Investing in professional training and departmental expansion.
Facilities and Services
The Paediatrics Department offers an extensive range of pediatric healthcare services, including:
Outpatient Department (OPD)
- Open Monday to Saturday, providing care to over 71,000 children annually.
- Five dedicated OPD chambers, with specialized services including a Diarrhea Treatment Unit (now Paediatric Outpatient Care Unit – POCU).
- Paediatric Pharmacy Unit with a compounding section for child-specific medications.
- Average waiting time of 24 minutes, exceeding the targeted standard.
Inpatient Department (IPD)
- General Pediatric Ward: 29 beds, including six for surgical cases and four high-dependency beds.
- Pediatric ICU (PICU): 5-bed unit established in 2012 for critically ill children, handling complex medical and surgical cases.
- Neonatal ICU (NICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU): 17 beds in total for newborns needing intensive care or high dependency monitoring.
Specialized Units
- Neonate Ward: 12 beds in phototherapy, 7 in Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), and 2 in isolation for neonatal jaundice and other conditions.
- Pediatric Physiotherapy Unit: Equipped for developmental screenings, particularly for children with disabilities.
Emergency Services
- 24/7 emergency services for pediatric and neonatal cases, with technical guidance and support for healthcare professionals across the country.
Clinical Focus Areas
The Paediatrics Department manages a variety of clinical issues, including:
- Respiratory Illnesses
- Congenital Heart Defects
- Renal Conditions
- Neonatal Jaundice
- Sepsis, Prematurity, and Birth Asphyxia in Neonates
Special Programs and Services
Thai-Bhutan Save Blue Heart Project
- In partnership with the Society of Pediatric Cardiology of Thailand, this project offers free cardiac surgeries for Bhutanese children with congenital heart defects. Since its inception in 2016, 37 children have received life-saving surgeries.
Chronic Disease Clinic
- Dedicated to monitoring and treating children with chronic conditions, held every Thursday.
Neurodevelopment Clinic
- Early detection and rehabilitation of children with disabilities, held every Tuesday.
Maintenance Chemotherapy for Leukemia
- Administered since 2017, ensuring specialized care for pediatric leukemia patients.
Training and Education
The department hosts daily academic activities, such as:
- Case discussions, journal clubs, and faculty lectures.
- Weekly bedside grand rounds and monthly mortality meetings.
- Regular training for pediatric residents and support staff, enhancing clinical skills and medical knowledge.
Achievements and Future Goals
The Paediatrics Department continuously strives to enhance care and access to specialized services. It envisions expanding its facilities, improving patient outcomes, and fostering a supportive community for children and their families.
The dedicated team pledges to work in unity, ensuring that every child receives the best possible care, fostering hope and healing in a nurturing environment.