Greetings,
An exciting and eventful 2009 is shaping up, as is evident from the array of stories featured in this issue of Pediatric Update.

Once again, Rainbow physicians are at the forefront of cuttingedge surgical techniques that not only reduce side effects and improve surgical outcomes, but represent a more personal approach to health care that is paramount to Rainbow’s mission. Our surgical leadership is working together to create a Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery at Rainbow that covers the scope of surgical specialties throughout the hospital. Their efforts have created a demand for an instructional program that has a world-wide reach.

The new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is proceeding on schedule and will be open in April 2009. The new 38-bed NICU project, part of UH’s Vision 2010 plan, will create a sheltered, protective environment for our smallest patients to receive cutting-edge care.

Tied to Rainbow’s mission of a more personal approach to health care is a Relationship-Based Care initiative. The
program is aimed at enhancing care between doctors and nurses and our patients and families. It is a philosophy of care that is being instituted at every level, from bedside care to rounds. The goal is a warm transition for our patients and enhanced communication between staff and the family.

We are delighted to welcome a new pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon, Ross Ungerleider, MD, MBA, who will assume the role of Vice Chair for Education in the Department of Surgery at University Hospitals in addition to Chief of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery. Dr. Ungerleider is one of the leading pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons in the nation. We are excited about having Dr. Ungerleider join our organization and assist us in the further development of our Pediatric Cardiac Heart Center.

We value our partnerships with colleagues from around the country and invite you to contact us any time with questions, comments or referrals. Thank you for your dedication to our patients. We look forward to seeing the results of current and future collaborations.













Michael J. Farrell
President,
Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and
MacDonald Women’s Hospital