If specialty services are needed, a child’s pediatrician can also refer them to expert specialists at the Mettu Children’s Hospital (MCH). Specialty services include cardiology, gastroenterology, pulmonology and more.

The Family Wellness Center is also recognized as a Certified Autism Center by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. This certification means the providers and staff have undergone training to understand and support children with autism and sensory needs, so all children can receive the care they need.

PMC’s Pikeville Urgent Care, located directly beside the Family Wellness Center, accepts patients aged 2 and up. Appointments are not necessary for pediatric urgent care services – families can simply walk in and see a provider when needed. Urgent care services are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for both children and adults at Pikeville and Prestonsburg.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a PMC pediatrician, call 606-430-2207.

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One of the most important lessons we can teach children is proper handwashing. Children should wash their hands often, especially before eating, after using the restroom, after playing outside and after being around others who are sick. Using warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds is most effective, and families can make it fun by encouraging children to sing the “Happy Birthday” song while washing.

Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of the elbow is another effective way to prevent germs from spreading. It is recommended to teach children to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth and to wash their hands before and after touching these areas. This can help prevent the transfer of viruses and bacteria.
Healthy daily routines also play a big role in preventing illness. There are ways to help strengthen a child’s immune system, like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and staying active. Drinking plenty of water also keeps the body hydrated, which supports overall health.

Parents should also remind children not to share cups, utensils, hats or other personal items at school, especially during cold and flu season. When possible, keeping a safe distance from people who are sick can further reduce the risk of catching an illness.

By practicing these simple tips at home and school, children can stay healthier, miss fewer days in the classroom and help prevent the spread of illnesses in the community.

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During the 2024-25 school year, Olivia entered the painting into the Community Economic Development And Revitalization’s (CEDAR) Future of Work in Appalachia (FWA) Fair, earning a prestigious award in the statewide competition.

“I painted the hospital because I also have a disease called Crohn’s, and I have to go to Cincinnati and come here sometimes,” says Olivia. “I wanted to help make other kids feel better.”

In a touching gesture, Olivia gifted her painting to Donovan Blackburn, President and CEO of PMC. Moved by her generosity, he plans to display the piece in the MCH waiting area so Olivia can accomplish her mission: to inspire other children who walk through those doors.

“Olivia’s creativity is a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit found in our community’s children. Her masterpiece doesn’t just capture the heart of Pikeville Medical Center—it inspires everyone who sees it to believe in hope, healing and brighter days ahead.”

John Justice, President and Executive Director of CEDAR Inc., praised Olivia’s creativity and commitment to her community. “It’s so fulfilling to see kids bring in projects that relate to their community,” says Justice. “With Olivia’s story, she used painting as a medium to express herself and to let people in our area know that PMC is here – that children need help here.”

Olivia says this painting is only the beginning, as she hopes to create more artwork to share with others in her community.

For more information about the Mettu Children’s Hospital, visit www.pikevillehospital.org/pediatrics

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“Receiving the Certified Autism Center reaccreditation reinforces our deep commitment to providing compassionate, specialized care to every child and family we serve,” says Tondra Polly, PMC executive director of women & children’s services. “I’m incredibly proud of our team for continuing to embrace the training and going above and beyond to create a safe, welcoming environment for children on the autism spectrum. This recognition honors their dedication and the heart they bring to their work every day.”

“IBCCES is proud to continue our partnership with Mettu Children’s Hospital at Pikeville Medical Center and renew their Certified Autism Center designation,” says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “This renewal is a testament to the hospital’s dedication to creating an inclusive environment where every child and family feels welcome and supported.”
For more than two decades, IBCCES has been a leader in providing autism, sensory and neurodiversity training and certification for professionals worldwide, including those in healthcare, education, public safety, travel and corporate sectors. As the only credentialing board offering these programs, IBCCES provides training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates, along with long-term support, continuous learning, onsite reviews, and renewal requirements to ensure continued growth and lasting impact.

To further support inclusivity efforts, Mettu Children’s Hospital is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is available for free download. This app offers individuals with various disabilities real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and personalized recommendations. By connecting users to accessible locations worldwide, the app helps ensure seamless, enjoyable experiences for everyone.

IBCCES also provides access to resources such as CertifiedAutismCenter.com and AutismTravel.com, free online tools for families that list certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center (CAC) requirements.

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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.

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Under the care of Dr. Aaron Whiteman and the incredible pediatric team, Maddie received the compassionate, expert care she needed.

Marina—her mother, a nurse and former employee of the children’s hospital— shared her deep gratitude:

“As a mother, it was so hard to watch my child struggle to breathe and know I couldn’t fix it instantly. But as a nurse, I knew I couldn’t have handpicked better nurses to care for Maddie. The team here brought us hope and healing in such a difficult moment.”

While in the MCH, Maddie received support from the staff and numerous friends and family members. She was especially grateful for her gifts and treats from her grandmother, a FaceTime call with her classmates, and over 70 “Get-Well-Soon” cards from her community. She also developed a special connection with one of her respiratory therapists.

“Little things mean a lot in these situations,” Marina said. “I say pediatric nurses never get enough appreciation. They not only take care of the kids, but the emotional mommas too. This week they’ve kept me sane, sat with her while I quickly showered, braided her hair, held me while I cried and supported me on difficult decisions.”

Now fully recovered, Maddie and her family wanted to give back to the MCH. Just a few weeks later, they returned to the hospital with cookies, a heartfelt card and lots of hugs for the staff who had cared for her. They also plan to donate new toys to brighten the days of other sick children.

Maddie’s story is a testament to the dedication of the Mettu Children’s Hospital team and the power of a caring community.

Thank you, Maddie and family, for your kindness and for giving back to help other children in need!

Thanks to grants and donors who give so generously, PMC is able to provide life-saving pediatric services, close to home. Be the reason a child feels hope and joy during their hospital stay—your gift makes a difference!

You can help bring smiles and comfort to patients at MCH like Maddie by donating at https://www.pmcky.org/mettu-childrens-hospital

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This certification aims to better prepare staff and management to treat individuals with autism or sensory requirements, as those with autism typically have different needs related to communication, pain perception and other treatments. The IBCCES program was created by clinical experts as well as individuals on the autism spectrum to ensure a well-rounded approach.

“As the rates of those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) continue to rise in our region, and with the Appalachian Valley Autism (AVA) Center treating many of those children, it is critical our departments undergo these types of training. Our goal is to ensure our staff members gain the knowledge and the skills required to provide the best care possible for all our patients,” said Tondra Blevins, RNC, PMC Director of Women and Children Services. “The journey to becoming a Certified Autism Center has further expanded our knowledge and allows us to treat our patients better, not only from an outpatient status but an inpatient status as well.”

PMC has worked with IBCCES, a global leader in online training and certification programs, to be designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) in several other departments as well, including the Appalachian Valley Autism (AVA) Center, the Urgent Care and Family Wellness Center and the Emergency Department (ED). These teams have also completed training and certification in best practices when assisting patients on the autism spectrum.

For more information about the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, visit www.ibcces.org. For more information about Pikeville Medical Center, visit www.pmcky.org.

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When Buddy stepped into the waiting room this week, joy filled the air and Paxton quickly came over to give him a hug and a high-five. The two spent several minutes together, and Buddy quickly learned how strong and witty young Paxton is. Buddy showed Paxton how to play the games in the waiting room, and they got to share some laughs.

For many families, the days of traveling hours from Eastern Kentucky for pediatric care are a thing of the past. Pediatric patients can now receive quality care close to home, thanks to a dedicated and highly trained staff at the Mettu Children’s Hospital.

At PMC, enhancing pediatric healthcare is an ongoing priority. That commitment has resulted in the only children’s hospital in Eastern Kentucky. PMC officials were intensely focused on creating a comfortable space for patients and their families through inviting décor, high-tech patient beds, full, in-room private bathrooms, and more. One of the highlights for many pediatric patients is getting to meet the Mettu Children’s Hospital’s lovable mascot, Buddy.

For more information on the Mettu Children’s Hospital, visit https://www.pmcky.org/r-v-and-joythi-mettu-childrens-hospital/.

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The Mettu Children’s Hospital Specialty Clinic at Pikeville Medical Center saw its first patient after officially opening its doors. The patient, Aurora, from Floyd County, is currently receiving care at UK Healthcare Joint Pediatric Heart Program in Lexington, KY.

Aurora saw Louis Bezold III, MD, certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, Cardiology with UK Healthcare at the new satellite location within the Mettu Children’s Hospital.
UK’s Kentucky Children’s Hospital and PMC are collaborating for the expansion of pediatric specialty services. The pediatricians will travel to Pikeville on selected days of the month for the specialty clinic.

“The collaboration between UK Healthcare Kentucky Children’s Hospital and our new children’s facility offers reassures eastern Kentucky families, “said Christy Prater, PMC’s Physician Practice Administration Clinical Director. “These patients now have access to exceptional heart treatment for children close to home.”

“Our goal is to offer pediatric specialty services that people have had to drive from 2 to 3 sometimes 4 hours for care. “Patients will be able to do their labs and diagnostic testing here.” said Donovan Blackburn, PMC President & CEO.

According to Dr. Mark Newman, UK HealthCare’s executive vice president of health affairs, the growth is about working together and “bridging the gap” between Lexington and Pikeville to ensure that all children and families have adequate access to quality care.

For more information about the Kentucky Children’s Hospital Pikeville Heart Clinic, call 859-407-6337

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Beginning Monday, December 6th, 2021, the new children’s hospital will begin providing much needed pediatric healthcare for the region, allowing more families to stay close to home, thus greatly reducing the financial burden that comes with traveling to hospitals hundreds of miles away.

The Mettu Children’s Hospital spans more than 13,400 square feet and houses both inpatient and outpatient pediatric service areas. Inpatient services are located in an 8,130 sq. ft. area consisting of a family-friendly waiting room, 10 private patient rooms (two of which are isolation rooms), a consultation room, a treatment room, a medication room, a nourishment room and more. Pediatric outpatient services are located in a 5,290 sq. ft. area consisting of separate sick and well waiting rooms, check-in and registration area, 13 exam rooms, a medication room, nurse’s station and more.

The Mettu Children’s Hospital at PMC transitioned from a dream to a reality due to a collaborative effort from many different funding partners who shared a common vision for a brighter future for Eastern Kentucky. In 2019, PMC received two grants totaling nearly $6.3 million from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Division of Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) to construct and equip the region’s only children’s hospital and pediatric clinic.

“Thanks to many answered prayers and the overwhelming support of Congressman Hal Rogers, Governor Andy Beshear and AML’s grant selection committee, our dream of developing a children’s hospital has finally become a reality,” said PMC President and CEO Donovan Blackburn. “We have spent many years working to find ways to better serve our pediatric patients, and the new Mettu Children’s Hospital will definitely help fill the existing gap in pediatric care that exists within our region.”

“ARC is proud to have provided a grant through our POWER Program that was a significant piece of the puzzle in helping this project come to fruition,” explained ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “This new opportunity for pediatric care in Eastern Kentucky will provide much needed relief for families, many of whom will no longer have to worry about leaving our region in order to receive quality healthcare for their children.”

In addition to grant funding, financial contributions from devoted private donors played a key role in the completion of the hospital. Thanks to a very generous gift from long-time local physicians Drs. R.V. and Jyothi Mettu, the children’s hospital will bear the name “The Dr. R.V. and Jyothi Mettu Children’s Hospital.” The Mettus’ donation came after what they both explained was a deep longing to make a contribution that would affect current and future generations of children in Eastern Kentucky.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear was among those in attendance for the ribbon cutting celebration and shared his excitement about the positive energy originating from Pikeville Medical Center and spreading throughout the entire region.

“I’m beyond excited to cut the ribbon on the Drs. R.V. and Jyothi Mettu Children’s Hospital as well as take part in the Lawson Cancer Center expansion announcement,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “I’m incredibly proud of the partnership we’ve established with Pikeville Medical Center, one of its region’s leading hospitals and one of its major employers. The kind of energy and momentum we’re seeing in Pikeville creates prosperity, hope and opportunity, and that’s what Team Kentucky is all about.”

“Pikeville Medical Center is transforming healthcare in the mountains by utilizing federal funds to provide specialized medical care to fight cancer and to establish the region’s very first children’s hospital. Just a few months ago, we celebrated the expansion of the Appalachian Valley Autism Center and the Heart and Vascular Institute, providing critical medical services right here at home,” said Congressman Hal Rogers. “This is why I fight so hard in Washington for every available federal dollar in our region, because leaders like PMC use it to improve the lives of our people in Eastern Kentucky.”

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