Celebrating Children's Healthcare Excellence
Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach has made significant strides in enhancing the healthcare experience for young patients. Recently, it received the prestigious Hospital of the Year Award from Starlight Children's Foundation, highlighting its unwavering commitment to children's emotional well-being during hospital stays.
Integrating Play into Healing
For over three decades, the partnership between Miller Children's & Women's and Starlight has transformed the medical landscape for pediatric care. The foundation’s emphasis on the Power of Play has provided children with vital moments of joy and distraction during their medical journeys. This collaboration has brought joy to countless young patients at Miller Children’s.
Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program
The Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program is at the heart of this initiative. Its dedicated team works tirelessly to create environments that ease the stress associated with hospitalization. Rita Goshert, the program director, emphasizes that the Power of Play is fundamental to their approach, ensuring children can engage and find comfort even in challenging circumstances.
Joyful Interactions and Therapeutic Environments
Through this partnership, Starlight has delivered toy collections, organized events, and invited special guests to uplift the spirits of children. These efforts transform hospital visits into more bearable experiences where kids can experience the joys of play, regardless of their conditions.
The Impact of Starlight's Programs
Dinarte Viveiros, the chief nursing officer at the hospital, notes that these programs are crucial in helping children feel more at ease. Each toy delivery and special occasion fosters a sense of normalcy and relaxation, allowing young patients to escape the stress of their surroundings.
Recognition of Superior Care
The recognition of Miller Children's & Women's Hospital by Starlight is a testament to the compassionate care delivered by its professionals. The integration of play-centered programs is vital for improving the emotional health of young patients. Creating joyful atmospheres helps the child life team engage children and eases their hospital experiences.
Viktoria de Jong, mission delivery coordinator at Starlight, praises the child life team’s dedication to the Power of Play. Their innovative use of Starlight’s programs has cultivated a nurturing environment where children can engage creatively, find comfort, and experience joy in the most trying times.
About Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach
Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach is a prominent member of the MemorialCare network. As one of only eight free-standing children's hospitals in California, it has been recognized for its excellence in pediatric care, particularly in pulmonology and lung surgery. Each year, it treats over 14,000 children, offering specialized outpatient care from its various centers.
About Starlight Children's Foundation
Founded in 1982, Starlight Children's Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of hospitalized children and their families. By providing essential support programs tailored to pediatric patients, Starlight aims to alleviate the stress and loneliness often associated with hospital stays.
With initiatives like Starlight Gaming, Virtual Reality, and Toy Deliveries, the organization strives to create a supportive community that caters to children’s needs. These programs aim to provide comfort and promote happiness, making hospital visits less daunting for young patients and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hospital of the Year Award?
The Hospital of the Year Award is an honor given by Starlight Children's Foundation recognizing hospitals that significantly impact the emotional and psychological well-being of young patients through play-centered programs.
How long has Miller Children's & Women's been in partnership with Starlight?
Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach has partnered with Starlight Children's Foundation for over 30 years, significantly enhancing the care experience for their young patients.
What is the Power of Play?
The Power of Play is a therapeutic approach that uses play as a tool to help minimize stress and anxiety among children undergoing medical treatment. It encourages children to engage and find joy, even during difficult times.
What specific programs does Starlight offer?
Starlight provides a variety of programs including Starlight Gaming, Starlight Virtual Reality, and Starlight Toy Deliveries, all designed to improve the hospital experience for children and their families.
How can I learn more about Miller Children's & Women's Hospital?
For more information about Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach and its programs, you can visit their official website to explore their services and initiatives.
