#United States #Pediatric Care #Bronx #Cham #Montefiore Hospital

Celebrating 25 Years of the Children's Hospital at Montefiore Einstein

The Children's Hospital at Montefiore Einstein (CHAM) has reached a remarkable milestone: 25 years of dedicated service to the pediatric community. With its official inauguration on October 23, 2001, CHAM has become a cornerstone of healthcare for over 300,000 children in the Bronx and beyond. From groundbreaking medical procedures to enhancing the lives of those it serves, the hospital has achieved a commendable legacy.

A Heritage of Excellence

Throughout October 2026, a series of celebratory events took place, highlighting significant breakthroughs in pediatric care, innovative research, and the unwavering commitment of the medical staff and community partners who have supported CHAM since its inception. Notably, the hospital has gained national recognition for its extraordinary care, including the successful separation of conjoined twins like Carl and Clarence Aguirre in 2004 and Jadon and Anias McDonald in 2016. Such achievements affirm the hospital's mission to provide life-saving medical attention to children in need.

With a capacity to treat around 7,000 inpatients yearly and over 60,000 children receiving ongoing treatment through outpatient services, CHAM has established itself as a vital entity in the pediatric healthcare landscape. The Montefiore School Health Program further extends the hospital's reach, serving a quarter of the Bronx's youth through school-based health services — the largest of its kind in the nation. This extensive network of care is strengthened by CHAM’s robust research efforts, backed by funding from the National Institutes of Health as well as private philanthropy.

Family-Centered Care

Michael D. Cabana, M.D., the Physician-in-Chief at CHAM, emphasizes a family-centered approach to pediatric healthcare, noting that every child treated is regarded as part of the family. This philosophy is exemplified through partnerships designed to support both patients and their families. An example is the Ronald McDonald House New York, which features a Family Room adjacent to the hospital, providing a comfortable space for caregivers of children undergoing treatment.

Moreover, CHAM's recent collaboration with the Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine departments has resulted in the creation of the Montefiore Einstein Center for Children's Health, a leading-edge inpatient psychiatric unit. In less than a year of operation, more than 160 children facing severe mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, have received care in an environment dedicated to healing and support.

Honoring Dedicated Partners

In recognition of the contributions of long-standing partners, an event was held on October 29, celebrating those who have played a pivotal role in CHAM’s journey. Among the honorees were champions like Judy Gottscho-Eichinger from The Ruth Gottscho Kidney Foundation and Mr. Reil Peerbooms from Frost Valley YMCA Camp, who have collaborated with CHAM for decades to ensure children with chronic health issues can experience traditional camp life while receiving necessary medical support.

Luis Eladio Torres, Principal at PS 55, voiced pride in the partnership with CHAM, which has established a clinic inside the school to provide comprehensive healthcare services. BronxWorks and the Niño de la Caridad Foundation also received acknowledgment for their ongoing dedication to the community’s health and well-being, enhancing support beyond the traditional clinical settings.

Community Response

Celebrating this quarter-century milestone, local officials expressed gratitude for the invaluable contributions of CHAM in aiding families during challenging times. Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson remarked that CHAM has served as a beacon of hope in the community, while New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera commended the hospital's commitment to improving health outcomes for children in the Bronx and surrounding areas.

Looking Ahead

With a quarter-century of progress behind them, CHAM is poised to continue its critical role in child healthcare. As one of New York's leading academic health systems, Montefiore Health System, which encompasses CHAM, remains committed to providing personalized and high-quality care to populations across the Bronx, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley. Through its Centers of Excellence and innovative programming, CHAM will strive to uphold its promise to the pediatric community for many more years to come. For those interested in learning more about CHAM, visit their website at www.montefiore.org.

Together, the past 25 years have not only been a celebration of achievements but a commitment to future successes as CHAM continues to champion the health and wellness of children.