Driscoll Children’s Hospital Launches Pediatric Residency Program in the Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX, September 22, 2025 – Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley proudly announces the introduction of the region’s first pediatric residency program, set to commence in 2026. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in enhancing medical education and pediatric care in South Texas.
Accreditation and Program Launch
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has recently approved the residency program, signifying a significant achievement for the hospital. The inaugural class is slated to begin in July 2026, a critical step in addressing the physician workforce needs in the area. This program aligns with Driscoll’s mission, which focuses on recruiting and retaining local physicians committed to the community.
Leadership Insights
“The approval of this residency program is an exciting milestone for Driscoll and the entire Valley,” said Eric Hamon, President and CEO of Driscoll Health System. “Nearly 70 years ago, we initiated our first residency program in Corpus Christi. Today, we expand our commitment to producing more skilled pediatricians who will serve South Texas.”
Matt Wolthoff, President of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, emphasized the long-term benefits of the program: “Our objective is to create a sustainable future for children’s healthcare in the Valley. This residency initiative allows future healthcare professionals to complete their training in the region, ensuring they remain here to serve our communities.”
Meeting Regional Needs
Mary Huckabee, M.D., Driscoll’s Director of Medical Education, elaborated on the program’s design: “We aim to train pediatricians who not only receive exemplary medical training but also forge strong connections with the community. By training locally, physicians are more likely to establish their practices here, thereby increasing access to high-quality care for children in the Valley.”
Importance of Early Establishment
To gain ACGME accreditation, Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley had to remain operational for a year prior to approval. Since opening in May 2024, it has become the region’s first freestanding, designated children’s hospital, setting the foundation for this groundbreaking residency program.
Application and Enrollment
The residency program is currently accepting applications for its first class, offering residents a thorough pediatric education complemented by practical experience with a diverse demographic of patients. Participants will benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty and resources aimed at promoting both career advancement and personal well-being.
Program Benefits
The pediatric residency program highlights several attractive features, such as:
- Competitive salaries and comprehensive health benefits, alongside wellness support, meal allowances, and essential resources like scrubs and medical literature access.
- Paid time off, funding for continuing medical education (CME) and research, along with opportunities for professional growth, including retreats and leadership training.
- Community retention incentives designed to encourage graduates to build their practices in South Texas, thus enhancing pediatric care throughout the Valley.
About Driscoll Children’s Hospital
Driscoll Children’s Hospital operates as the leading healthcare provider for children across South Texas. As a nonprofit entity, it has served communities since 1953 and has emerged as the fastest-growing healthcare system in the region. The hospital operates two freestanding designated children’s hospitals: Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi and Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley. Additionally, the Driscoll Health Plan supports accessibility for Texas families by facilitating local healthcare connections and other essential benefits.
This new addition to the Driscoll Children’s Hospital portfolio represents a tremendous opportunity for medical professionals in training and a beacon of hope for pediatric care across the Rio Grande Valley.
