Scottish Rite for Children: Leading the Nation in Pediatric Orthopedics for Two Consecutive Years

Scottish Rite for Children: A Beacon of Hope in Pediatric Orthopedic Care

In a remarkable achievement, Scottish Rite for Children has been ranked as the number one institution in the nation for pediatric orthopedic care by U.S. News & World Report for the second consecutive year in its 2026-2027 Best Children's Hospitals specialty rankings. This accolade underscores their unwavering commitment to patient care and their mission to help children reclaim their childhood.

Scottish Rite has a longstanding history of excellence. For nearly twenty years, it has held a top position among pediatric orthopedic programs in collaboration with renowned partners like Children's Medical Center Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Center. The recent back-to-back recognitions signify a significant milestone for the institution, signifying not only exceptional clinical outcomes but also a commitment to advancing patient care practices.

Robert L. Walker, the president and CEO of Scottish Rite for Children, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the institution's dedication to impactful care. Walker stated, _"Our greatest measure of success will always be the difference we make in their lives. This honor belongs to the people across Scottish Rite who make that possible."_

The U.S. News rankings are derived from an extensive examination of 114 children's hospitals and thorough surveying of thousands of pediatric specialists. They assess various factors, including clinical outcomes, compliance with best practices, and the quality of hospital resources crucial for patient care. Daniel J. Sucato, M.D., M.S., chief of staff at Scottish Rite for Children, remarked on how the institution's achievements stem from its commitment to improving pediatric orthopedic care with each advancement spurred by the question: _"How can we provide better care for this child?"_

Among the institution's innovative procedures, Scottish Rite recently performed the first U.S. implantation of a newly FDA-cleared device designed for treating early-onset scoliosis. This breakthrough expanded treatment methodologies for children experiencing complex spinal issues, showcasing Scottish Rite's ability to remain at the forefront of medical advancements.

In addition to clinical innovations, the institution has received $4.1 million in R01 grants from the National Institutes of Health dedicated to advancing research on osteonecrosis, demonstrating its commitment to development on various fronts. Education remains a pillar of Scottish Rite's mission, as shown by its Dorothy Bryant Edwards Fellowship in Pediatric Orthopedics and Scoliosis, recognized as the largest pediatric orthopedic fellowship globally, which celebrated its 200th graduate this year.

Dr. Sucato highlighted how the fusion of clinical care, research, and education at Scottish Rite enhances the institution's capability to progress in pediatric orthopedics. _"Our approach allows us to advance pediatric orthopedics and, most importantly, provide the best possible care for every child,"_ he stated.

For over a century, Scottish Rite for Children has strived to provide children with a semblance of normalcy and joy, focusing on treating various pediatric orthopedic conditions, including scoliosis, clubfoot, hand differences, hip disorders, limb lengthening, and reconstruction, along with sports injuries and fractures. Additionally, they address arthritic and neurological disorders and learning disabilities, including dyslexia.

Operating two campuses—one hospital in Dallas, Texas, and an ambulatory surgery center in Frisco, Texas—Scottish Rite is celebrated for creating a cheerful, child-friendly atmosphere that deviates from the sterile environment typically associated with healthcare institutions. Their commitment to inclusivity ensures that treatment is available regardless of a family’s financial situation.

To learn more about the services offered at the Dallas or Frisco campuses or to explore opportunities for volunteering or donations, visit scottishriteforchildren.org. Their remarkable achievements in pediatric care continually inspire, reaffirming their pivotal role in the lives of countless children and families across the nation.