ORLANDO, FL -- Officials from Florida Hospital just revealed new details about their visionary plans to shape the 'Children's Hospital of the Future,' which will make a significant impact on children's health throughout Central Florida and be a model for pediatric hospitals beyond the region.

The plans include sophisticated, interactive technology for patients; accomplished pediatric physicians who specialize in advanced, minimally invasive surgery; and a former United States Surgeon General who will provide leadership for the children's health and policy platform. Administrators also unveiled the hospital's new name, Disney Children's Hospital at Florida Hospital. While The Walt Disney Company has long supported children's hospitals both locally and around the world, Disney Children's Hospital will be the first children's hospital in history to bear the Disney name.

"This hospital will be on the forefront of technology and a model for patient experience that will be truly dedicated to the well-being of children," said Marla Silliman, administrator of Disney Children's Hospital at Florida Hospital.
One of the keystones of this visionary plan is the creation of a dedicated children's emergency department that will be the first in the country to feature Ambient Experience Design solutions from Philips. First impressions set at the entrance, in addition to patient rooms and dedicated play areas, are designed to soothe young patients and their families. Areas throughout the department will feature lighting and design elements to bring the comforts of outside into the hospital setting. Patient treatment rooms will offer animation selections on the ceiling accompanied by soft lighting and music, allowing "escapes" to areas such as the beach or mountains.

"Philips is delivering a captivating and comforting, child-friendly space. We're incorporating the latest in clinical design and technologies, as well as elements, to provide calming, positive assurances to patients and their families," said Brent Shafer, executive vice president and CEO, North America, for Philips Healthcare. "In collaboration with Disney Children's Hospital, we're aiming to define the 'Children's Hospital of the Future.'"

Technology will extend to the in-room experience as well, where the first Interactive Patient Care technology of its kind in Central Florida will allow bedside access to the GetWellNetwork® Patient-Life System® so that pediatric patients can play video games, watch movies and surf the Internet. Parents may also view the latest information on childhood obesity, asthma, diabetes and other topics through patient education videos on the same system.

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