Shriners Hospitals for Children

Shriners Hospitals for Children is a network of 22 non-profit medical facilities across North America. Founded in 1922, the hospitals are owned and operated by the Shriners International, a Masonic fraternity known for its philanthropy and community service. The organization is dedicated to providing pediatric specialty care, regardless of the families' ability to pay, primarily focusing on orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate.

History

The first Shriners Hospital was opened in 1922 in Shreveport, Louisiana, with the aim of providing care for children with polio. This initiative came at a time when the United States was experiencing a significant polio epidemic, and medical facilities were scarce. The success of this hospital led to the establishment of more facilities across the country, expanding their services beyond polio to treat a wide range of pediatric conditions.

Mission and Services

The mission of Shriners Hospitals for Children is to provide advanced care for children with special healthcare needs, conducting research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and the quality of life of children and families. The hospitals offer a comprehensive range of treatments, all tailored to the needs of children and designed to promote healing in a comfortable and family-friendly environment.

Orthopedics

Shriners Hospitals are renowned for their expertise in pediatric orthopedics, treating conditions such as scoliosis, clubfoot, and limb discrepancies. The hospitals employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgery, rehabilitation, and support services to achieve the best outcomes for their patients.

Burn Care

The burn care centers at Shriners Hospitals are among the few in North America that specialize in pediatric burn treatment. They offer acute and reconstructive burn care, as well as rehabilitation and psychological support to help children recover from their injuries.

Spinal Cord Injury

Shriners Hospitals for Children also specialize in the treatment of spinal cord injuries, providing innovative therapies and rehabilitation programs designed to improve function and encourage independence.

Cleft Lip and Palate

The cleft lip and palate program provides comprehensive treatment for children with these conditions, including surgery, dental care, and speech therapy, ensuring that children have access to the services they need to thrive.

Research and Education

In addition to patient care, Shriners Hospitals for Children is committed to research and education in pediatric specialty care. The hospitals conduct clinical and basic science research to improve understanding and treatment of the conditions they specialize in. They also provide education and training for medical professionals, sharing their expertise to improve pediatric care worldwide.

Funding and Support

Shriners Hospitals for Children relies on donations from Shriners, the public, and various fundraising activities. The hospitals do not charge for any services provided, underscoring their commitment to accessible care for all children.

Conclusion

Shriners Hospitals for Children has made a significant impact on pediatric healthcare in North America. Through their dedication to high-quality care, research, and education, they have improved the lives of countless children and families, embodying the spirit of philanthropy and service that defines the Shriners organization.