Celebrating Two Decades of Specialized Pediatric Care in the Rio Grande Valley
Introduction to South Texas Health System Children’s
South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s has marked a significant milestone, celebrating 20 years of dedicated pediatric care in the Rio Grande Valley. With its continued commitment to providing specialized medical services, STHS Children’s has transformed healthcare access for families across the region.
A Historical Overview
Prior to the establishment of STHS Children’s in Edinburg, families in the Valley faced significant challenges accessing specialized pediatric care. Many had to travel over 160 miles to cities like Corpus Christi to meet their children’s medical needs. The opening of STHS Children’s in 2006 fundamentally changed this narrative.
STHS Children’s: A Beacon of Hope
Lance Ames, CEO of STHS Children’s & STHS Edinburg, emphasizes the impact of the facility on the community. “From the moment STHS Children’s opened, it became more than a hospital; it became a symbol of healing and hope for families across the Valley,” he stated. Over the past 20 years, STHS Children’s has served approximately 300,000 children, providing essential services to families in areas from Brownsville to Roma.
Exceptional Facilities and Care Services
The state-of-the-art, four-story hospital boasts 86 beds and includes a dedicated pediatric emergency department equipped with 15 beds. These facilities are designed to cater specifically to the unique needs of children, ensuring safe and compassionate care. Additionally, a 14-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) handles life-threatening situations for infants, children, and adolescents. In 2025 alone, STHS Children’s treated over 28,500 pediatric patients in its emergency department, providing critical support to 620 young patients.
Expanding Specialty Services
Over the last two decades, STHS Children’s has diversified its offerings, expanding to include pediatric specialties such as:
- Pediatric Infectious Disease
- Nephrology
- Neurology and Neurosurgery
- Cardiology
- Orthopedics and Spine Care
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
This wide range of services positions STHS Children’s as a leader in pediatric healthcare within the region, ensuring comprehensive care for its youngest patients.
Dedication and Compassion of the Staff
The heart of STHS Children’s lies in its dedicated team of healthcare professionals. “Behind every child we’ve cared for stands an extraordinary team of trained nurses and physicians,” Ames noted. This unwavering commitment has fostered a nurturing environment where children receive not only skillful medical attention but also emotional support during challenging times.
A Community Celebration
To honor its 20-year journey, STHS Children’s hosted a community celebration on March 4, 2026. This event featured remarks from community leaders, including Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa, who recognized the hospital for its exceptional service to families throughout the region. The celebration also acknowledged the all-star team members who have dedicated their careers to the facility, with some employees still serving at STHS Children’s since its inception.
Looking Ahead
As STHS Children’s enters its third decade, it remains committed to expanding and innovating its pediatric services. “This milestone celebration not only honors the community that has supported us, but also the dedicated team members who give their all each day,” Ames explained. The focus will continue to be on enhancing care quality and ensuring that families have access to the resources they need.
Conclusion
For those seeking reliable and compassionate pediatric care, South Texas Health System Children’s offers an impressive array of services that continue to evolve with the community’s needs. Visit STHS Children’s for more information on their comprehensive pediatric services.
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System encompasses a multi-facility healthcare system, including four acute care campuses specializing in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health, and trauma services. Their commitment to high-quality care extends to inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs. For more details, explore South Texas Health System’s website.
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