Children’s Hospital Colorado is enhancing its services by launching a new pediatric urgent care center in southeast Aurora, which has quickly established itself as a vital resource for local families.
The new facility, named the Outpatient and Urgent Care, is situated at 23770 E. Smoky Hill Road and is specifically tailored for children, providing a comprehensive array of services.
Suzy Jaeger, chief patient experience and access officer, highlighted the benefits, stating, “It’s a much lower cost point than having to go to the emergency department. We’re also really happy to partner with all the primary care physicians in that area. We think we’re going to be able to change the cost of health care in this part of the community, and that’s why we made this investment.” The center opened its doors in late August.
In just a few weeks of operation, the urgent care center has surpassed expectations. Jaeger reported that on its very first day, the center experienced more than double the patient volume compared to previous months. This surge underscores the pressing need for accessible pediatric care in the region.
According to Jaeger, many urgent care facilities in the area have closed since the COVID-19 pandemic, further highlighting the center’s importance. It provides services across 20 pediatric specialties, including radiology, lab services, and audiology.
The expansive nearly 40,000-square-foot facility features 11 urgent care exam rooms, seven orthopedic/rehabilitation exam rooms, and 16 specialty clinic exam rooms. Additionally, it boasts an outdoor sports field for its Sports Medicine clinic and an ophthalmology clinic with an in-house retail shop, making it a comprehensive resource for children needing eye care.
Jaeger stressed the significance of delivering pediatric-focused care: “We provide a really calm and comforting location for them to receive care, really focused on the needs of kids and their families.”
The new urgent care center is also easing the strain on local emergency departments, which frequently deal with non-emergency cases. Jaeger noted that the center’s existence not only aids families but also helps prevent children from developing more severe illnesses.
Clinic hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m, and appointments are available by referral only. Patients can obtain a referral from their primary care provider. The urgent care operates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year, including holidays.