Phoenix Children's Hospital Becomes a Notable Member of Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Network

Phoenix Children's Earns Prestigious Membership in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Network

In a notable advancement for pediatric healthcare, Phoenix Children's Hospital has been designated as a member of the Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Network (PPHNet). This significant achievement places the hospital among an elite group of only 14 pediatric centers in the United States and Canada recognized for their exceptional commitment to treating children with complex pulmonary hypertension.

This recognition reflects years of relentless effort by the dedicated staff at Phoenix Children's to meet the stringent criteria set forth by PPHNet, which includes factors such as patient volume, specialization, and a robust multidisciplinary care approach.

Dr. Sharad Menon, director of the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Phoenix Children's, expressed optimism about the new opportunities this designation will create. He stated, "This PPHNet designation marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, one that will grant our patients access to cutting-edge research trials and elevate our standard of care through national collaboration." This initiative not only advances the quality of care but also emphasizes Phoenix Children's commitment to providing individualized, expert care for patients from infancy through adolescence.

Pulmonary hypertension is a rare yet serious condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which significantly burdens the heart. This condition often affects infants born extremely prematurely, with some starting as early as 24 to 26 weeks gestation. Patients with pulmonary hypertension frequently face additional medical challenges such as Down syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and various heart diseases.

To address the unique needs of these medically fragile patients, the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Phoenix Children's has developed a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program. This initiative includes specialized cardiac catheterization and advanced echocardiography techniques for noninvasive monitoring of these patients. Furthermore, through close collaboration with the health system's neonatal intensive care units, the clinic is poised to deliver the highest quality of attention to the most vulnerable children.

As a designated PPHNet site, Phoenix Children's Hospital is now set to play a pivotal role in advancing pediatric pulmonary hypertension research and improving outcomes for children across the nation. This underscores the hospital's unwavering commitment to innovation, compassion, and excellence in pediatric cardiovascular care. Notably, in 2025, U.S. News and World Report ranked Phoenix Children's Hospital among the nation's top children's hospitals, highlighting its status as the premier children's hospital in Arizona and the fourth-best in the Southwest region.

About Phoenix Children's Hospital

Phoenix Children's is recognized as one of the largest pediatric healthcare systems in the nation. It encompasses several campuses and facilities throughout Arizona, offering world-class inpatient and outpatient care, trauma services, and support for numerous pediatric specialties. With over four decades of experience serving children and their families, Phoenix Children's has built a robust network of pediatric care providers and specialists across more than 75 subspecialties. At the heart of its mission is a commitment to enhancing pediatric care and education to foster healthier futures for the next generation. For further information, please visit the Phoenix Children's website.