Pediatric Center of Excellence holds dedication

Chiricahua Community Health Centers Pediatric Center of Excellence held their building dedication on September 9.

In 2009 during the Nov. 3 general election, CCHCI was awarded the 15th Street School for the new Pediatric Center of Excellence by receiving nearly 90 percent of the votes.

In February 2010 CCHCI completed purchase of the 15th Street School for the Pediatric Center of Excellence. In April 2010, CCHCI was featured on American Idol "Gives Back", Larry King Live and CNN.

The remodeling of the old school building Chiricahua Health Center is a great opportunity to provide the best service available with its top-notch medical equipment handled by a very capable staff, Dr. Jonathan Melk, Director of Community Pediatrics, said.

The clinic provides state of the art pediatric care to over 7500 patients and sees approximately 100 patients per day.

“We didn’t have a grand opening we were too busy, a year later we felt we needed to do something,” Melk said.

The ceremony started with Mrs. Ginger Ryan, CEO, unveiling the, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, LEED certification plaque. At that time Mac McPherran, CFO, raised the Pediatric Flag.

Guests were given a tour of the facility, and staff shared projects they are currently working on for patients.

Guest speakers were: Irwin Redlener MD, Cofounder and president of Children’s Health Fund; Arturo Gonzales MD, Immediate Past President, Arizona Chapter of the Arizona Academy of Pediatrics; Dan Frey, Representative for Ron Barber; April Corona-Alvarez, MD and Darlene Ray, MD, Community Pediatricians of the PCE, CCHI; Linda Melgoza, Member of Parent Pediatrician Council, grandmother; Larette Roman, Member of Parent Pediatrician Council, mother and Xylin Roman, Patient of PCE, fourth grade student.

A tour of the Mobile Medical Clinic was available, and Gemma’s Dance Studio provided entertainment.

“This whole event has far exceeded my hopes,” Dr. Melk said.