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.

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.

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

The Appalachian Center for Advanced Eye Care at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) provides complete eye exams for children and teens across the region. Exams are performed by experienced optometrists who specialize in detecting childhood vision conditions, including Amblyopia (lazy eye), Strabismus (crossed eyes), and other common or complex issues. Early detection of these conditions can make a significant difference in how a child sees and experiences the world.

Routine eye exams are more than just vision checks. They help detect a wide range of conditions that may not show obvious symptoms early on. In Kentucky, comprehensive eye exams are required for all children entering Head Start or kindergarten. These exams allow healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat potential vision problems early, giving children a stronger foundation for success both in and out of the classroom.

It’s important to note that even if a child shows no signs of vision trouble early in life, problems can still develop as they grow. Parents can play an active role in supporting their child’s eye health by scheduling regular exams, encouraging outdoor play to reduce screen time, promoting healthy sleep habits and using protective eyewear and sunglasses when needed.

PMC optometrists offer pediatric eye exams every Wednesday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. If corrective lenses are needed, prescriptions for glasses can also be provided. For more information or to schedule a visit, call (606) 430-2209 or visit www.pikevillehospital.org/optometry-clinic.

These walk-in physicals are open to all children, regardless of whether they are established patients at PMC. The goal is to provide a simple and accessible option for parents to help their children meet school or sports participation requirements before the new academic year begins.

“We do sports and school physicals every day for our patients, but we’re really encouraging folks who don’t have a pediatrician or aren’t able to see their pediatrician to stop by here the next two Fridays of July,” said PMC Pediatrician Stan Johnson, MD. “They can walk in without an appointment and get their physicals so they can be ready for the school year. We would love to have patients stop by and see us.”

Each child will receive a comprehensive head-to-toe assessment during their visit. PMC’s experienced pediatricians will carefully examine each student, listening to their heart and lungs, checking vital signs and using a range of medical equipment to assess physical wellness. This thorough evaluation helps identify any potential health concerns and ensures students are physically prepared for school activities and sports programs.

To help prevent the spread of illness, the Family Wellness Center features two separate patient waiting rooms for sick and well children. The separate waiting areas are just one of the many ways PMC is committed to keeping children healthy, allowing families to feel more comfortable when bringing their children in for their physicals.

Located at the PMC Family Wellness Center, the walk-in service is designed to eliminate the hassle of scheduling and offer families flexibility during the busy summer months. By providing this service on a walk-in basis, PMC continues its commitment to improving access to healthcare for the community’s children. For more information, call (606) 430-2207.

Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) Pediatrician Aaronda Wells, MD, says there are a few tips and tricks parents can utilize to keep kids in good health during winter. “When the temperatures start dropping and indoor activities increase, we encourage parents to make sure their children are up to date with immunizations.” Dr. Wells added, “It is also important to make time for exercise and for an adequate amount of sleep.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider. It is best to get the flu vaccine early in the flu season , but getting it later is better than not getting it at all.

Getting children to exercise may be difficult, especially during winter months when the temperature drops and precipitation is common. However, there are numerous ways for them to stay active indoors. Indoor obstacle courses, dance parties and hide-and-seek are relatively simple options for keeping kids active. During times when the weather is a bit nicer, parents should encourage
kids to play outside. During snow days, building snowmen, playing in the snow and even making “snow angels” are ways children can exercise while having fun.

Proper rest is essential for building a strong immune system and maintaining overall well-being. Setting and enforcing bedtimes can also help children settle into a good sleeping routine.

On winter days when children can participate in outdoor activities, wearing appropriate clothing is essential. Children should be dressed in layers, including insulated jackets, hats, gloves, scarves and waterproof boots. Making sure their extremities are protected is important when it comes to protecting against frostbite.

Pediatricians also say while insulated coats are great when the child is outside, they shouldn’t be worn while the child is in a car seat. “What your child wears while riding in the vehicle could compromise the safety and effectiveness of the car seat,” explained Dr. Wells. “Bulky sweaters or coats can prevent the car seat harness from fitting properly. To keep your child warm, consider using a blanket in the vehicle and save the winter coat for time spent outside.

Most winter illnesses clear up on their own after a few days, but some can develop into more serious medical issues. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact the child’s pediatrician if he or she exhibits any of the following symptoms:
• Fever of 103°F or higher
• Very sore throat combined with a fever
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Wheezing and/or trouble breathing

In the case of more serious medical situations, children should be taken to the nearest urgent care facility or emergency room. For additional information or to schedule an appointment with a PMC pediatrician, call 606-430-2207.

May is Asthma Awareness Month, an opportune time to focus on both the challenges and strategies to manage pediatric asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes the inner lining of the airways to swell and produce mucus, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. In children, asthma can be particularly difficult to manage, as their airways are smaller and more prone to inflammation. Factors such as allergies, respiratory infections and environmental triggers can worsen asthma symptoms, making seasonal transitions a potentially dangerous time.

Effective symptom management is paramount for children with asthma. By using a proactive approach, Eastern Kentuckians can better ensure their children thrive regardless of the season.

With the support and guidance of medical providers at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), caregivers have access to resources and expertise close to home, providing effective asthma management for children in Eastern Kentucky. PMC is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to pediatric patients, with a team of experienced healthcare professionals and specialized services tailored to the needs of children with asthma and their families. The goal is to educate those impacted by asthma about potential triggers, symptom management, medication adherence and the importance of regular follow-up care.

From advanced diagnostic tools to cutting-edge therapies, PMC is committed to ensuring families are equipped to manage their child’s asthma and can achieve better health outcomes. With PMC’s dedication to pediatric asthma care, families can breathe a sigh of relief, finding hope and support in their journey towards asthma control.

To make an appointment with a PMC pediatrician, call 606-430-2207, visit pikevillehospital.org/pediatrics/.

PMC’s Pediatric Outpatient Therapy Center was born out of a commitment to address the geographical barriers and economic strains faced by families seeking critical therapy services for their children. In response to these challenges, PMC embarked on an ambitious expansion project in 2021 within PMC’s Physical Rehabilitation. The results can be seen in enhanced outpatient therapy services for children throughout Eastern Kentucky.

Establishing the multi-sensory stimulation area significantly advances therapeutic care for pediatric patients. This innovative space will be designed to provide a holistic approach to therapy tailored to the unique needs of each child. By creating a calming environment during therapy sessions, the multi-sensory stimulation area promotes patient satisfaction, smoother transitions, and the development of self-regulation techniques, ultimately expanding children’s attention spans. Moreover, the area catalyzes social interaction, communication, motor control, coordination and physical exercise, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of pediatric patients.

“This grant from Kosair for Kids represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive and accessible care to children in Eastern Kentucky,” stated Donovan Blackburn, PMC Chairman, President and CEO. “The multi-sensory stimulation area underscores PMC’s commitment to nurturing the growth and development of pediatric therapy services within our community.”

AS PMC continues to prioritize this initiative and enhance pediatric services in Eastern Kentucky, the establishment of the multi-sensory stimulation area within the Pediatric Outpatient Therapy Center at PMC marks a crucial step toward comprehensive, holistic and accessible care for pediatric patients in the region. PMC remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing pediatric therapy services and improving the lives of children throughout the region. With this bold initiative, PMC continues to set a new standard of excellence in pediatric therapy, inspiring hope and transforming lives.

Pediatricians play a large role in ensuring children’s health, well-being and success. From comprehensive health assessments and preventive care to promoting healthy lifestyles, pediatricians provide a comprehensive approach to children’s health during the back-to-school season. By partnering with parents and teachers, pediatricians lay the foundation for a positive and productive academic year, helping children thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Pediatric visits are important for children of all ages.  Annual check-ups allow the healthcare provider to conduct a comprehensive health assessment, ensuring that the child is physically and mentally well. Regular screenings for vision, hearing and overall health can detect any potential issues early on, allowing for timely interventions and appropriate support.

In addition, immunizations are a crucial part of preventive care for school-age children. Pediatricians play a vital role in administering necessary vaccinations to protect against communicable diseases. Keeping students up-to-date with their immunizations helps create a safer and healthier environment within schools, preventing outbreaks and keeping vulnerable students safe.

Pediatricians can monitor a child’s growth and development, keeping track of physical milestones and potential signs of developmental delays. Early detection of any developmental concerns allows for timely referrals to specialists and intervention programs that can support the child’s progress and educational journey such as speech, occupational, physical or nutrition therapy.

Good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are essential for children’s overall growth and development. Pediatricians offer valuable advice on proper nutrition, physical activity and sleep patterns to optimize a child’s potential during the school year by enhancing cognitive function and improving focus.

Prior to the commencement of a new school year, parents are encouraged to schedule a visit with their child’s pediatrician. Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) has an amazing team of pediatric providers ready to serve children in the region. The PMC Urgent Care and Family Wellness Center on Cassady Boulevard provides convenience to parents, as well as confidence in their child’s health. To schedule an appointment, call (606) 430-2207.

Many vaccines are required prior to starting the school year, and a few additional ones are recommended by pediatricians.