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The Child First and Always
This phrase originated from the Hospital for Sick Children in London, England, where it has been used as a motto since the hospital’s beginning in 1852. The hospital’s opening on Valentine’s Day with ten cots marked the beginning of the children’s hospital legacy in the English-speaking world. Dr. Charles West, an obstetrician, spearheaded this effort. Previous to that, there were essentially no children’s hospitals, and as a rule, children were not allowed in adult hospitals. Consequently, mortality rates for serious illnesses were nearly 100 percent.
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In 1855, The Hospital for Sick Children provided the inspiration for Dr. Francis Lewis’ to establish the first children’s hospital in America - Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Other children's hospitals soon followed, including Primary Children's.
A hospital specialized for children brings all of its expertise and focus on children’s health, rather than operating as a pediatric appendage in a hospital with an adult focus. Not only does this make Primary Children’s a wonderful resource for the community, it makes a statement about how we, as a community, feel about children.
-Joe Horton, former CEO, Primary Children's Medical Center
In addition to its historical significance, the phrase, "The Child First and Always" provides a visible, concise statement of our philosophy. It informs and reassures those who seek our services, and serves as a daily reminder to employees of our commitment to children.