For the eighth consecutive time, the American Burn Association has reverified the Burn Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. In 2003, the Burn Center became the first children’s hospital in Ohio to be verified, which means it met 19 important quality-, safety- and care-related criteria established by the ABA. More than 20 years later, the center continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to excellence in patient outcomes, quality improvement and research.
“Our mission is to provide comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based care to all pediatric burn patients,” says Rajan Thakkar, MD, co-director of the Burn Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “We’re dedicated to leading the way in pediatric burn injury management and advancing care through innovation and research.”
The team, including faculty within the Division of Pediatric Surgery, is equipped to treat everything from minor burns to complex injuries requiring ICU care. Innovation is at the core of the program. The center, also verified by the American College of Surgeons, utilizes a combination of advanced treatment methods – including laser therapy – to manage hypertrophic scars, improving long-term cosmetic and functional outcomes for young patients.
In 2024, the team admitted 147 pediatric burn patients, saw 480 new referrals and performed more than 400 procedures. Nearly 1,600 outpatient visits highlight the program’s successful shift toward outpatient-centered care whenever possible.
“What truly sets our program apart is our ‘one team’ culture,” says Dr. Thakkar, clinical professor of Surgery in the Division of Pediatric Surgery. “From suture techs in the Emergency Department to highly trained burn nurses, physical and occupational therapists and dedicated physicians and advanced practice providers, every member is united in delivering seamless, compassionate, family-centered care. Our team is working together to help children heal – not just physically, but emotionally and socially, too.”
For example, the center offers events throughout the year to support, educate and celebrate patients and their families. This includes the Healthy Healing Burn Camp, a unique and empowering initiative that offers support for burn survivors of all ages.
“Looking ahead, we aim to expand outpatient services, incorporate more family-centered innovations and enhance clinical pathways to reduce complications,” Dr. Thakkar says. “Raising awareness about pediatric burn injuries – both locally and nationally – remains a top priority.”