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UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals Reveals Groundbreaking Stad Center for Pediatric Pain

The UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals recently inaugurated the Stad Center for Pediatric Pain, Palliative, and Integrative Medicine, marking a significant advancement in pediatric healthcare. Located on the UCSF Mission Bay campus in San Francisco, this facility is designed uniquely to revolutionize how pediatric pain and serious illnesses are treated. This center is the first of its kind on the West Coast, with an exemplary multidisciplinary team devoted to the comprehensive treatment of children in pain.

Dr. Stefan J. Friedrichsdorf, a prominent figure in pediatric pain management, leads this innovative center. His team includes a diverse mix of professionals, including full-time physicians, nurse practitioners, dieticians, acupuncturists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and physical therapists. This collaborative approach allows for a more holistic understanding of healthcare - one that recognizes the complex interplay between physical, emotional, and social factors affecting a child's wellbeing.

Since its inception in 2020, the Stad Center has trained over 3,000 clinicians from around the world, demonstrating its commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices globally. It aims to facilitate a better understanding of pediatric pain management through comprehensive education and training programs.

The state-of-the-art facility features a patient-centered design focused on fostering comfort and minimizing stress. Its thoughtful layout avoids traditional waiting rooms and instead incorporates open spaces, a striking digital waterfall, and an abundance of natural light, creating a soothing atmosphere for patients and caregivers alike. The design reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the patient experience and making the process of seeking treatment as comfortable as possible.

Dr. Friedrichsdorf emphasizes the importance of treating the entire child, stating, "No child should suffer from unnecessary pain. No family should have to search endlessly for comprehensive care or answers to their child's needs." This philosophy underpins the Stad Center's approach, which integrates both Eastern and Western medicine into a singular framework aimed at addressing all aspects of a child's health.

The center was inspired by a visit from Elisa and Marc Stad to top pediatric hospitals in China, where they observed a successful blend of Eastern and Western therapies. Upon returning to San Francisco, Elisa Stad dedicated herself to promoting these integrative medical initiatives at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, recognizing the growing need for comprehensive pediatric care that includes alternative therapies as part of standard practice.

Elisa Stad reflects on the current mindset surrounding integrative medicine, stating, "We are at an inflection point where integrative medicine is not just seen as a last resort therapy but is now proven as a better way to care for children in mainstream medical settings." This sentiment underscores the shift towards a more holistic model of care, and the Stad Center aims to be at the forefront of this transformation.

The Stad Center's opening in early Spring 2025 promises to expand access to its premier services. With aspirations to redefine pediatric pain management, the center will serve as a model for healthcare facilities across the globe. As Nicholas Holmes, MD, MBA, president of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, asserts, caring for a child's overall wellbeing is essential for achieving optimal treatment outcomes.

In addition to the Mission Bay location, the Stad Center maintains outpatient clinics in Oakland and Walnut Creek, ensuring comprehensive access to pediatric pain management resources across the Bay Area.

The Stad Center not only aims to treat but also to teach - fostering a culture of kindness and compassion in healthcare, which is essential for the wellbeing of both children and their families. Interested individuals can explore more about the center, schedule tours, or engage in philanthropic support by visiting the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals website.