Children have unique health needs, especially during illness or injury. Whether it’s keeping up with vaccinations or deciding where to go for urgent care, knowing the medical team has special training to care for children helps provide peace of mind.
Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) continues to improve pediatric services across Eastern Kentucky. In 2020, the hospital opened the Appalachian Valley Autism (AVA) Center, bringing new therapy options for children on the autism spectrum. In 2021, PMC opened the region’s only children’s hospital, giving families access to high-quality care without having to travel far from home.
Since then, four departments at PMC have completed extensive training to become Certified Autism Centers by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). These departments include the Emergency Department, Urgent Care, Pediatric Clinics, and the Mettu Children’s Hospital. This certification means the staff in these areas are trained to understand and support children with autism and sensory needs.
The Emergency Department at PMC also holds a “pediatric ready” certification and was one of the first in Kentucky to do so. A dedicated pediatric wing was created to provide a calm, child-friendly space during medical emergencies. For less serious conditions, PMC offers two urgent care clinics in Pikeville and Prestonsburg that treat children ages two and up. No appointment is needed, and both locations offer daytime, evening, and weekend hours to fit busy schedules.
PMC strives to provide the best possible care for children throughout the region. With certified staff, kid-friendly spaces, and convenient access to treatment, families can trust that pediatric health is a top priority at Pikeville Medical Center.
