Children's Hospital Madison delivers pediatric acute, surgical, and specialty care close to home for families across south central Wisconsin. The campus emphasizes family centered care, coordinated medical teams, and a child friendly environment designed to reduce stress during hospital stays.
As an academic medical center affiliated with the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, the hospital balances cutting edge research with hands on clinical excellence in pediatric and maternal services.
Overview at a Glance
| Facility | Services | Affiliation | Primary Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children's Hospital Madison | Inpatient pediatric care, emergency, surgery, specialty clinics | UW Health | UW Health Kids |
| Level III NICU | High risk newborn stabilization and transport care | Regional referral partner | Collaborative NICUs |
| Emergency Department | Pediatric urgent and emergent care, behavioral health support | 24/7 attending physicians | Pediatric emergency medicine team |
| Outpatient Specialty Clinics | Cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, rehabilitation | Integrated EHR with UW Health | Referral management across clinics |
Pediatric Emergency and Urgent Care Services
The Emergency Department at Children's Hospital Madison is structured specifically for children, with smaller rooms, age appropriate equipment, and staff trained in pediatric emergency medicine. Fast track options help families with minor injuries and illnesses avoid long waits in the main ED.
For after hours concerns, families can access clinical intake nurses who guide them to the appropriate level of care, whether that is bedside treatment, imaging, or transfer to a higher level of intensity when needed.
Specialty Clinics and Referral Pathways
Accessing Specialty Care
Many specialty clinics operate within the hospital and outpatient center, allowing coordinated testing and same day consults when necessary. Primary care providers in the region can submit electronic referrals, which often results in streamlined scheduling and clearer communication across teams.
Therapy and Support Services
Onsite rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and behavioral health services help reduce the burden on families who would otherwise travel long distances for specialized support. Group classes and individualized sessions focus on developmental progress and functional goals.
Level III NICU and Newborn Care
Newborns who require more advanced care are admitted to the Level III NICU, which is equipped to handle prematurity, complex congenital conditions, and postoperative stabilization. The unit coordinates closely with regional transport teams to receive transfers safely and rapidly.
Parents receive guidance from neonatologists, lactation consultants, and developmental care specialists, who explain treatment plans in clear language and support family involvement during rounds and bedside care.
Key Takeaways for Families
- Children's Hospital Madison offers pediatric acute, surgical, and specialty care on a single academic campus.
- Family centered design and child friendly spaces help make visits and stays less stressful.
- A Level III NICU and dedicated pediatric ED provide regional referral level support.
- Outpatient specialty clinics and therapy services coordinate closely with primary care.
- Transparent communication, clear referral pathways, and financial assistance options support families navigating care.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I refer my child to a specialty clinic at Children's Hospital Madison?
Your pediatrician or primary care provider can submit an electronic referral through the UW Health system, and a scheduler will contact you to confirm an appointment time and any prep instructions.
What should I bring to the Emergency Department with my child?
Bring identification, insurance information, a list of current medications, any recent test results, and comfort items for your child, so the team can review history quickly and begin assessment without delay.
Does the hospital offer child life services during long admissions?
Yes, child life specialists provide age appropriate play, education, and procedural preparation to help reduce anxiety for children and give parents strategies for supportive care throughout the stay.
How can I learn about financial assistance or billing for pediatric services at the hospital?
Contact the hospital financial services team to discuss payment plans, insurance verification, and possible charity care programs, and you will receive clear explanations of estimated costs and bills.