For the children: Christ Community Health shows off first pediatric clinic in Augusta

Christ Community Health has always offered pediatric care, but for the first time in almost 16 years, they have a dedicated pediatric hub.

The local health network opened its first stand alone pediatric clinic earlier this year, and celebrated the achievement with a ribbon cutting Thursday afternoon.

The clinic boasts 10 exam rooms and a waiting room designed to appeal to children, from games and LEGOs to colorful walls and decor featuring story characters.

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People tour the new Christ Community Pediatrics clinic on D'Antignac Street on Thursday, April 20, 2023. This location is their fourth in the CSRA.
People tour the new Christ Community Pediatrics clinic on D'Antignac Street on Thursday, April 20, 2023. This location is their fourth in the CSRA.

Family Medicine Doctor Joey Krakowiak explained how the design and whimsical atmosphere allows their young patients to feel safe and welcome.

"You avoid the issues that you wouldn't necessarily be worried about with adult clinics like certain things on the walls, certain fixtures like blinds on the windows," Krakowiak said. "You don't worry about adults messing with blinds, but the kids get into them."

Lead Pediatrician Charles Scarborough echoed those thoughts on the aesthetics, and added that having their own space is great for their integrated behavioral healthcare.

"Every child that comes in, no matter what their insurance status is is welcome, and they have access to seeing a pediatrician, a therapist, and a consulting psychiatrist that we have on the floor at all times," Scarborough said.

Patients can receive a variety of other primary care services like immunizations, same-day sick visits, and specialty care referrals. The clinic is located in the downtown Augusta Medical District at 1238 D’Antignac St.

More information is available online at cchsaugusta.org.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Christ Community Health Services opens first children's health clinic