SPECIALTIES OVERVIEW AND PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS | PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2026 ANNUAL REPORT
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FEATURED CONTENT RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS > Latest leading-edge research: Riley physician-scientists and researchers are bringing new treatments to the bedside. > Diabetes & Endocrinology: Emily K. Sims, MD, highlights Riley’s longstanding participation in Type 1 diabetes clinical trials. > Nephrology: BRIDGE program integrates patient visits with research to facilitate biomarker discovery for glomerular diseases. Neurosurgery: Innovative fetal repair of myelomeningocele minimizes risks of fetal surgery for the mother; preserves benefits of in-utero repair for the fetus. > Hematology, Oncology & Stem Cell Transplant: Riley Children’s performs world’s first successful pediatric bone marrow stem cell transplant using cells from a deceased donor. > Hematology, Oncology & Stem Cell Transplant: Riley specialists make history, joining a small number of facilities to deliver groundbreaking gene therapy for severe inherited blood disorder. > Behavioral Health: Riley Children’s opens a Pediatric Medical-Behavioral Health Unit—one of the first units of its kind in the nation for children with complex medical and behavioral health needs. RILEY HEART CENTER HIGHLIGHT > Cardiothoracic Surgery: Riley Children’s meets the criteria for a “Comprehensive Care Center”—the top tier outlined in new pediatric heart FIRSTS IN PATIENT CARE > Maternal Fetal Medicine/
The Riley Children’s Health Annual Report includes program distinctions and highlights from 44 medical and surgical specialties at Riley Children’s. You will also find details about national program accreditations and certifications, physician leadership in national organizations, top journal publications, leading-edge research, firsts in patient care, and more.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome to Riley Children’s Health New leaders join the Riley team Proud to be a nationally ranked children’s hospital About Riley Children’s Health Nursing at Riley Children’s Health Riley Children’s Health: Focus on quality and safety
General Pediatrics & Pediatric Primary Care Heart Center ■ Cardiology ■ Cardiothoracic Surgery ■ Cardiac Critical Care Medicine ■ Electrophysiology ■ Interventional Cardiology Hematology, Oncology & Stem Cell Transplant Hospital Medicine Infectious Diseases Interventional Radiology Maternity & Newborn Health ■ Maternal Fetal Medicine ■ Fetal Center ■ Maternity Services ■ Neonatology Medical & Molecular Genetics Nephrology Neurology
Neuroradiology Neurosurgery Ophthalmology Orthopedics Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery Palliative Care Pediatric Surgery Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Plastic Surgery Psychiatry Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine Rheumatology Transplant Surgery Trauma Services Urology
Pediatric specialties Adolescent Medicine Allergy & Immunology Anesthesia Child Protection Critical Care Medicine Dentistry Dermatology Developmental Medicine Diabetes & Endocrinology
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Diagnostic Radiology Emergency Medicine Gastroenterology
A regional destination for children’s healthcare
Providing care in 24 Indiana communities, Riley Children’s Health offers outreach locations that make Riley expertise accessible to patients in neighboring states.
surgery recommendations. RECRUITMENT HIGHLIGHT
> Gastroenterology (GI): GI program takes the lead in fostering a clinical training environment that attracts more physicians to the field.
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WELCOME TO RILEY CHILDREN’S HEALTH
NEW LEADERS JOIN THE RILEY TEAM
LEADERSHIP TEAM
David Biggerstaff, MHA President
For more than a century, Riley Children’s Health has served the healthcare needs of Indiana children and their families. Ours is a tradition of clinical excellence and family-centered care that stands the test of time. From routine primary care to expert treatment for the most complex diseases and conditions of childhood, Riley Children’s is committed to being the best choice for pediatric healthcare. Today, as the only children’s hospital in our state to be nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report , Riley Children’s provides care in 24 communities in Indiana, with outreach locations that make our recognized experts and high-quality care accessible to patients and families in neighboring states as well. I am constantly inspired by the countless ways our physicians, researchers and team members are working to advance pediatric specialty care not only here in the Midwest but across the country and around the world. Strengthened by our partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine , Riley physician-scientists and our researchers in the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research are leading the kind of innovation that revolutionizes clinical practice and makes breakthrough treatments possible. Such exciting developments happen every day at Riley Children’s. Earlier this year, our physicians performed the world’s first successful pediatric bone marrow stem cell transplant using cells from a deceased donor. Launched last year, Riley Nephrology’s unique BRIDGE program, integrating patient visits with research, is paving the way for critical biomarker discovery for pediatric glomerular diseases. And in diabetes and endocrinology, Riley Children’s continues its longstanding history of serving as a clinical trial site for promising therapies designed to treat and prevent Type 1 diabetes in children and young adults. These are just a few examples of Riley’s leadership. Every day, with every patient, our dedicated team members make delivering exceptional care our highest priority. Across Indiana and beyond, Riley Children’s is a place where patients and families place their trust. On behalf of our team members statewide, thank you for your shared interest in advancing the leading-edge healthcare that enables children to enjoy full and productive lives.
Serving as chief nursing officer at Riley Children’s since August 2026, Simmy King, DNP, MBA, NE-BC, FAONL, FAAN, is a nationally recognized nursing leader. She currently serves as a commissioner on the American Nurses Credentialing Center Commission on Magnet and as a member of the American Academy of Nursing’s determinants of health policy standing committee. “Joining an organization distinguished by five consecutive Magnet designations, clinical excellence, cutting-edge research and a deep commitment to patient- and family- centered care is a profound honor. I’m excited to partner and collaborate with our extraordinary team as we continue to advance nursing and healthcare outcomes at Riley.”
Mara E. Nitu, MD Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Simmy King, DNP, MBA, NE-BC, FAONL, FAAN Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Vanessa Roshell-Stacks, MHA Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Frank Runion Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Metro Region Douglas K. Graham, MD, PhD Physician-in-Chief, Riley Children’s Health Chair, Department of Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine
Simmy King, DNP, MBA, NE-BC, FAONL, FAAN Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Riley Children’s Health
Mark P. Cain, MD, FAAP Vice President and Surgeon-in-Chief
Judy Hollingsworth, MSN, RN, NE-BC Associate Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Administrator of Ambulatory Services
Douglas K. Graham, MD, PhD, joined Riley Children’s as physician-in-chief in August 2026. He also serves as chair of the Department of Pediatrics at IU School of Medicine. Specializing in pediatric leukemia and cancer therapeutics, Dr. Graham has built his career around translating laboratory discoveries into therapies for children. He leads a National Institutes of Health- funded laboratory focused on developing novel treatments for pediatric cancers, with discoveries advancing into early-phase clinical trials. “I am truly honored to be stepping into my new role as physician-in-chief at Riley Children’s Health. Riley is a place with exceptional people, a strong culture of collaboration and a clear commitment to innovation. By strengthening the integration of research and clinical medicine across specialties, Riley is uniquely positioned to further distinguish itself as a sought-after national destination for pediatric care.”
Sarah Currier Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Emily Haarman Chief of Staff
Douglas K. Graham, MD, PhD Physician-in-Chief, Riley Children’s Health Chair, Department of Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Graham on Doximity.
David Biggerstaff, MHA President, Riley Children’s Health
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PROUD TO BE A NATIONALLY RANKED CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Riley Children’s Health, Indiana’s largest and most skilled pediatric health system, provides care in ABOUT RILEY CHILDREN’S HEALTH
U.S. News & World Report has ranked Riley Children’s Health among the best children’s hospitals in the nation for the 19th consecutive year. In 2026–2027, Riley Children’s is ranked in 11 out of 11 pediatric specialties.
24 communities across the state. Accreditations and designations
By the numbers
CANCER CARDIOLOGY & HEART SURGERY DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY GASTROENTEROLOGY & GI SURGERY NEONATOLOGY NEPHROLOGY NEUROLOGY & NEUROSURGERY ORTHOPEDICS PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PULMONOLOGY & LUNG SURGERY RANKED 10 TH IN THE NATION * UROLOGY RANKED 4 TH IN THE NATION
23,900+ ADMISSIONS AND OBSERVATIONS 475 BEDS 75+ PEDIATRICIANS 645+ SPECIALISTS ACROSS 40+ SPECIALTIES 27,000+ SURGICAL VOLUME 70,300+ EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT VISITS
Level I Children’s Surgery Center verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS)
Level I Pediatric Trauma Center verified by ACS
Burn program verified by the American Burn Association
Platinum Center of Excellence designated by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization
Earned Magnet®status, recognizing excellence in nursing care
Riley Children’s delivers life- changing therapies for children As one of the busiest locations for pediatric research funded by the National Institutes of Health and other sponsors, Riley Children’s and Indiana University School of Medicine are committed to improving the lives of children through groundbreaking discovery and clinical trials.
“Riley is honored to stand among the nation’s strongest children’s hospitals, with U.S. News & World Report’s rigorous methodology reflecting the volume and complexity of the patients we serve, our exceptional outcomes, scientific advancement and national reputation for excellence.”
AFFILIATED WITH
Riley Children’s: A leader in research and innovation ■ A national leader in externally funded research ■ One of the largest pediatric research hospitals in the Midwest ■ Home to the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research , the Children’s Clinical
■ One of the largest medical schools in the U.S. ■ One of the busiest locations for pediatric research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other sponsors ■ For federal fiscal year 2025, the IU School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics is ranked No. 6 in the nation for NIH research funding, totaling more than $41.6 million to support numerous pediatric studies.
Mara E. Nitu, MD Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Riley Children’s Health Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Nitu on Doximity.
>
READ the latest updates on Research and Innovation at Riley Children’s Health.
Research Center and the Center for Children’s Health Services Research
Physician-scientists and researchers at Riley Children’s Health are supported by numerous National Institutes of Health (NIH) awards. Content related to these awards and included in this report is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH.
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* Tied for 10th
NURSING AT RILEY CHILDREN’S HEALTH
■ Lowest central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate since data has been tracked – 0.79 per 1,000 line days in 2025 ■ Lowest catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rate since 2019 – 0.81 per 1,000 catheter days in 2025 ■ Approximately 21% reduction in surgery safety events (with increased surgery volume in 2025) RILEY CHILDREN’S HEALTH: FOCUS ON QUALITY AND SAFETY
TOP DISTINCTIONS
■ Only 10% of U.S. hospitals have earned Magnet designation; Riley Children’s is among the 2% of hospitals to be designated five times.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
– 2025: 0.63% – 2024: 0.80%
■ Enhancing neonatal patient safety: Proactive safety huddles to prevent unplanned extubations ■ Clinical advisor-led dressing class to enhance new graduate nurse burn knowledge and perceived relevance ■ Unplanned extubation prevention in the PICU ■ Virtual mentoring and its effectiveness on clinical judgment of the novice nurse: A QI project ■ Nursing team care delivery model utilizing LPNs in the pediatric acute care setting ■ Noise reduction interventions during golden hour admissions ■ Making the connection: Increased language access impacts harm risk in pediatric inpatient settings ■ The role of far-UVC light in reducing hospital-acquired infections
■ Nurse residency program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; accreditation earned in 2022.
High-acuity units lead the way in harm prevention *
PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE UNIT ■ 0 CAUTIs ■ 49% reduction in CLABSIs (0.82)
NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT ■ 51% reduction in unplanned extubations (0.18 per 1,000 ventilator days) ■ 28% reduction in hospital-acquired pressure injuries (0.01 per 1,000 patient days)
CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS CENTER ■ 130 days without a CLABSI (new record)
CLINICAL NURSES 1,614
EDUCATION
* 2025
84% 9% 7%
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
DESTINATION FOR NURSES
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
GRADUATE DEGREE
IN 2025
542 nurses hired
CERTIFICATIONS
230 new nurses graduated from the nurse residency program at Riley Children’s
18% 11% 59%
CERTIFIED RNs
CERTIFIED CLINICAL NURSES
CERTIFIED NURSE LEADERS
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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT
Physician-scientists and researchers at Riley Children’s Health are bringing leading-edge treatments to the bedside. Their ingenuity and forward-thinking approaches are supported by the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research and the Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics , ranked No. 6 in National Institutes of Health funding. INNOVATORS
Groundbreaking research is underway at Riley Children’s, including:
DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY Riley Children’s is leading TADPOL – a novel clinical trial investigating a disease-modifying therapy for Type 1 diabetes. NEPHROLOGY Riley nephrologists have uncovered new findings about kidney damage in children with vesicoureteral reflux. PULMONOLOGY Physician-scientists at Riley Children’s have shown efficacy of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulators in patients without a qualifying mutation.
NEONATOLOGY Using rapid genome sequencing to detect genetic disease in infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), specialists have developed a genetic evaluation algorithm, creating a paradigm shift in clinical practice across Riley NICUs. GASTROENTEROLOGY To understand the biology of pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, a Riley gastroenterologist is developing bioengineered liver organoids , mini models of pediatric liver disease, using innovative technology developed by a research partner at Purdue University.
> READ about these innovations and other current research at Riley Children’s.
The adolescent medicine specialists at Riley Children’s Health treat a wide variety of adolescent health issues, including reproductive health, eating disorders and gender health. Our fellowship-trained physicians routinely work with specialists in cardiology, hematology/ oncology, child development, psychiatry, endocrinology, and obstetrics and gynecology to provide patient-centered, comprehensive care for young people up to age 25. ADOLESCENT MEDICINE
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Adolescent medicine specialists at Riley Children’s lead research in these areas: ■ Human papillomavirus (HPV) ■ HPV vaccines ■ Sexually transmitted infections ■ Healthcare access for youth ■ Eating disorders ■ Teen pregnancy prevention ■ Gender health ■ Long-term effects of illness and recovery on youth
Specialized programs
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Adolescent Medicine Consultation Program We offer a multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and treatment of any adolescent health issue requiring more specialized treatment than is typical for primary care. As part of our medical consultation program, patient visits may include engagement with dietitians, social workers, psychologists and nursing team members for holistic, patient-centered care. Common referrals include: ■ Mental health and behavioral issues, including anxiety and depression and disordered attention ■ Nutritional concerns, including eating disorders ■ Co-management of chronic illness ■ Evaluation for chronic symptoms that lack a diagnosis Adolescent Nutrition Program We provide comprehensive nutrition services, including an in-office dietitian offering personalized nutrition guidance tailored to the patient’s needs. ■ Weekly appointments available. ■ Healthy eating plan developed in collaboration with family and healthcare provider. Nearly 50 new patients benefited from this program in 2025, with our providers completing more than 140 appointments with these patients.
Charis Center for Eating Disorders Indiana’s most comprehensive eating disorders treatment program, the Charis Center provides medical, psychological, group therapy, nutritional and family support. The center offers inpatient and outpatient treatment options and facilitates more than 10,000 outpatient visits annually. Adolescent Gynecology and Reproductive Health Our physicians evaluate and treat a variety of gynecological conditions, including delayed puberty, abnormal uterine bleeding, polycystic ovary syndrome, chronic pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea. We offer specialized gynecology and reproductive healthcare, including long-acting reversible contraceptive options. Our specialists have extensive experience consulting patients and families about fertility preservation in complex illness. Riley Gender Health Program Our interdisciplinary program delivers comprehensive support within the legal limits of Indiana law to patients (up to age 25) and their families who are experiencing gender dysphoria and seek supportive, holistic and affirmative care.
■ One of the largest divisions of its kind in the nation with high-volume clinical care, prolific grant-funded research and a robust training program ■ One of only nine nationally recognized Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) programs; provides interdisciplinary training in the needs of adolescent and marginalized populations ■ One of the few programs regionally that serves the unique needs of patients experiencing gender dysphoria
Our physicians lead subspecialty training through a
three-year adolescent medicine fellowship program . Fellows provide clinical care, conduct research, direct resident education and can earn a master’s degree in public
52 research publications in 2025
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
Contemporary Clinical Trials: July 2025 Workforce and systems change to treat adolescent substance use disorder within integrated pediatric primary care: A cluster- randomized stepped-wedge trial Mental Health Science: March 2025
Hopelessness as a mediator of the association between parenting factors and adolescent suicidality and substance use among juvenile justice-referred youth Health Promotion Practice: November 2025 Helping teens move + thrive: Adolescents’ preferences for online exercise videos
Riley Children’s is committed to advocating for families of adolescents and young adults in Indiana and across the nation, with the goal of improving their health and wellness.
DIVISION CHIEF Rachel A. Katzenellenbogen, MD Professor of Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > C onnect with Dr. Katzenellenbogen on Doximity.
7 board certified physicians 10 psychologists
See full team member list >
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Allergy and immunology specialists at Riley Children’s Health are expertly trained in the management and treatment of pediatric allergy, asthma and immunology concerns. Our board certified physicians offer the latest diagnostic methods and treatments delivered in a safe and comfortable manner to children dealing with the challenges of allergy and immunology conditions. ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
■ Riley Children’s participates in PARK (Preventing Asthma in High Risk Kids), a multicenter clinical study led by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to investigate the impact of omalizumab to prevent severe asthma and new allergies in preschool-age children. ■ We are involved in multiple clinical trials, including the peanut patch study.
Specialized programs
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High-Risk Asthma Program This collaborative program addresses the medical and social needs of children and families with severe asthma. > Learn more. Gastrointestinal Eosinophilic Digestive Diseases Program Our multidisciplinary program allows children to see a pediatric allergist, gastroenterologist and dietitian during the same visit. Immune Dysregulation Program This program combines experts from rheumatology, immunology, hematology and infectious diseases to guide children with complex immune disorders. Immunogenetics Program Patients receive the latest guidance from an immunologist, a geneticist and a genetic counselor.
■ Performs more food challenges than any other program in Indiana; recognized for distinction in clinical care by Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) ■ Indiana’s only multidisciplinary program for eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases ■ Member of the Jeffrey Modell Centers Network for treatment and research related to primary immunodeficiency diseases
Riley Children’s is a core member of the Severe Pediatric Asthma Consortium, a group focused on developing best practice guidelines and cultivating research initiatives.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
Professional organization affiliations American Academy of Pediatrics – Section on Allergy and Immunology > Girish V. Vitalpur, MD, FAAP, FAAAAI American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology > Jay J. Jin, MD, PhD, FAAAAI > Simran K. Jutla, MD > Kirsten M. Kloepfer, MD, MS, FAAAAI > Nurcicek Padem, MD, MS > Craig D. Sewell, DO > Girish V. Vitalpur, MD, FAAP, FAAAAI The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: October 2025 How infections and immune development relate to preschool recurrent wheezing and asthma Pediatric Allergy and Immunology: April 2025 A case of pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in an infant with incontinentia pigmenti Pediatric Pulmonology: February 2026 Early life food desert status is associated with alpha and gamma-tocopherol levels and infant lung function
■ Partners with the Indiana Department of Health to
Program Volume: 2024 – 2025
analyze all abnormal newborn screenings for severe combined immune deficiencies (SCIDs)
Allergy patient visits
Immunology patient visits 2024 805 2025 828
Oral food challenges
2024 6,851 2025 6,925
2024 381 2025 530
The inpatient penicillin allergy de-labeling protocol at Riley Children’s is used in hospitals across Indiana.
DIRECTOR Girish V. Vitalpur, MD, FAAP, FAAAAI Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Vitalpur on Doximity.
Clinical Immunology Society > Jay J. Jin, MD, PhD, FAAAAI > Nurcicek Padem, MD, MS
6 board certified physicians
See full team member list >
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The expert anesthesiologists at Riley Children’s Health deliver safe, evidence-based and compassionate care to pediatric patients in all areas of anesthesia, perioperative medicine, and acute and chronic pain management. In addition, our specialists are committed to leading innovative perioperative care research, providing high-quality clinical education and improving health outcomes. ANESTHESIA
Committed to quality and safety Anesthesiology team members at Riley Children’s are actively involved in the statewide IU Health controlled substance stewardship and steering committees to enhance and guide safe opioid prescribing practices for all pediatric patients.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Grant-funded or industry-sponsored research ■ Perioperative precision medicine: Translating science into clinical practice to improve safety and efficacy of opioids in neonates, children and nursing mothers ■ Implementing and personalizing best-in-class opioid-sparing pain management for major inpatient pediatric surgeries ■ Conducting a multicenter, open-label, randomized, bupivacaine- controlled study to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of Exparel ® for postoperative analgesia in patients ages 0 to less than 6 years undergoing cardiac surgery
Specialized programs
TOP DISTINCTIONS
Riley Children’s participates in WakeUp Safe , a pediatric anesthesia
Chronic Pain Management Program Harnessing the expertise of pain physicians, psychologists, and physical and occupational therapists, this multidisciplinary program provides psychological and procedural support for pediatric patients with chronic pain. Acute Pain Management Program Skilled anesthesiologists provide leading-edge pain management for inpatient and outpatient procedures; use regional anesthesia and pain management protocols to enhance recovery and mitigate unwanted side effects. Cardiac Anesthesia Program The congenital cardiac anesthesia team delivers specialized care to children and adults with congenital and acquired cardiac disease who are undergoing diagnostic, interventional and surgical procedures. Transplant Anesthesia Program Providing 24/7 coverage for complex transplant cases, our physicians specialize in anesthesia care for children undergoing intra-abdominal and multivisceral transplants.
■ Subspecialty anesthesia care for complex cardiac, neurosurgical and transplant surgeries, as well as acute and chronic pain management services ■ Nationally recognized in pediatric anesthesia and pain medicine research ■ Leader in the use of infant spinal anesthesia to minimize the need for general anesthesia
quality improvement initiative sponsored by the Society for Pediatric Anesthesia.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
A leader in training and education ■ Riley Children’s and Indiana University School of Medicine offer an ACGME-accredited fellowship program that provides comprehensive training in all aspects of pediatric anesthesia. ■ The ACGME-accredited advanced pediatric cardiac anesthesia fellowship at Riley Children’s and IU School of Medicine provides robust training in anesthesia for congenital heart disease. children witih stable pulmonary arterial hypertension The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery: December 2025 The circulatory arrest recovery ammonia problem (CARAP) hypothesis: A proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) study of brain metabolism during neonatal cardiopulmonary bypass surgery Current Opinion in Anesthesiology: June 2025 Recent advancements in fetal anesthesia AANA Journal: February 2026 The importance of values solicitation for informed consent deficiencies ASA Monitor: January 2026 Novel fetoscopic repair offers quality of life improvement for spina bifida patients Pediatrics: July 2025 Acute intraoperative STEMI in a toddler Pulmonary Circulation: June 2025 Programmatic approach to outpatient cardiac catheterization in
Leading-edge technologies in cardiac anesthesia
TEG 6S, a new point-of-care diagnostic modality, allows real-time assessment and treatment of bleeding disorders during cardiac surgery.
Anesthesia Encounters: 2023 – 2025
2023
2024
2025
Riley Children’s is a member of the Pediatric Anesthesia Learning Network (PALNET), a group of leading pediatric hospitals that promotes expertise in EEG-guided monitoring of anesthetic depth. This technique allows for more accurate and personalized dosing of anesthetic drugs, resulting in less emergence delirium, more stability and faster wake-ups. With the goal of improving patient outcomes, several members of our team have become experts in this technique and are training other anesthesiology professionals at Riley Children’s.
Riley Hospital for Children Main OR
17,000 * 17,000 * 17,000 *
DIVISION CHIEF Rania K. Abbasi, MD, FASA Associate Professor of Clinical Anesthesia, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Abbasi on Doximity.
Riley Outpatient Center
5,573 5,746 5,967
Riley Children’s Health at IU Health North
3,448 3,256 4,026
35 board certified physicians
See full team member list >
Total
26,021 26,002 26,993
* Estimated total for Main OR
Child Protection at Riley Children’s Health offers multidisciplinary clinical services and education to improve the evaluation and care of maltreated children. Our team of board certified physicians provides evidence-based consultation in cases of suspected child maltreatment. These consultations are objective assessments to help determine the extent of injury and whether a medical cause or an accidental mechanism accounts for the injury pattern. CHILD PROTECTION
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Child protection specialists at Riley Children’s are active in national and local organizations, including: ■ American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Child Abuse and Neglect ■ American Academy of Pediatrics Trauma Informed Care Champion ■ American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Foster Care Adoption and Kinship Care ■ U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children’s Justice Act Task Force ■ USA Gymnastics Safe Sport Committee ■ Ray E. Helfer Society, including the executive committee (treasurer) ■ Local and state child fatality review teams and child advocacy centers
Radiography use in assessing possible child maltreatment: ■ Use of postmortem body CT scans to evaluate occult injuries ■ Use of whole-body MRI in comparison with skeletal surveys to detect fractures
Committed to quality improvement ■ Enhancing use of an evidenced-based post-traumatic stress screening tool across all Child Protection Program outpatient clinics to improve early identification and streamline the path to restorative care for our pediatric patients ■ Optimizing patient scheduling capacity and improving our visibility and access to IU Health and the community ■ Implementing a case series describing the differences between accidental pet injuries and physical abuse to prevent diagnostic errors
Specialized programs
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Child Abuse Consultation Service Child protection specialists facilitate comprehensive medical evaluations for children alleged to have been physically abused or neglected. Crisis Counseling Services These services bridge the gap from the time a child is identified as a possible child sexual abuse victim to when formal ongoing counseling may become available.
Foster Care Bridge Program Riley Children’s offers a trauma- informed, multidisciplinary clinic to serve as a bridge—providing comprehensive healthcare and acquiring appropriate resources for children entering and making transitions within the foster care system until a permanent medical home is identified. Docs InCASE (Doctors for Indiana Child Abuse Screening and Education) Program We partner with 15 pediatric practices in Indiana that provide local expertise and assistance to DCS through consultation and participation in community child advocacy teams. They additionally participate in educational trainings and case reviews around child protection issues.
■ Extensive history of collaboration and care
coordination with healthcare providers, child protection case managers, law enforcement and the judicial system ■ Consults with the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) on more than 6,500 cases of suspected child maltreatment each year ■ Home to one of only 31 ACGME-accredited child abuse pediatrics fellowship programs in the nation
Foster Care Bridge Program Encounters: 2022 – 2025
222 214
189
Pediatric Center of Hope Riley specialists in child abuse pediatrics provide comprehensive medical
evaluation for children alleged to have been sexually abused.
The child protection team led 62 community education programs in 2025.
2022–23
2023–24
2024–25
Physical and Sexual Abuse Consultations by Year: 2021 – 2025
7,556
7,178
Children Served: 2025
6,272
5,495
Child abuse consults 6,857
Crisis counseling consults 668
DIVISION CHIEF Shannon L. Thompson, MD, FAAP Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Thompson on Doximity.
Pediatric Center of Hope consults 699
DCS consults 6,620
5 board certified physicians
See full team member list >
2021–22
2022–23
2023–24
2024–25
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Professional organization affiliations
CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE The 37-bed pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Riley Children’s Health provides skilled care to critically ill infants, children and adolescents. According to the Children’s Hospital Association, the PICU located at Riley Hospital for Children in downtown Indianapolis is one of the highest acuity centers in the United States. With all pediatric medical and surgical subspecialties represented, the PICU delivers a collaborative model for the care of a large volume of high-acuity diseases and injuries.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
CO-CHAIR, INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Society > Adnan Bhutta, MD, FAAP, FCCM
■ 12 clinical and observational trials funded by the National Institutes of Health are underway in critical care at Riley Children’s. ■ Contributing to pediatric research, Riley Critical Care Medicine submits samples to the Indiana Biobank from patients who are critically ill with underlying oncologic diseases and those with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Active in national and international studies focused on: ■ Septic shock involving patients with multiorgan dysfunction, immunoparalysis and those receiving blood transfusions ■ Ventilation, ECMO and nutrition in patients with mild to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome ■ Controlled temperature management in patients post-cardiac arrest ■ The use of azithromycin in babies with respiratory syncytial virus ■ Biomarkers for respiratory failure in immunocompromised patients
MEMBER, AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION YOUNG HEARTS PEDIATRIC AND CONGENITAL CRITICAL CARE CARDIOLOGY COMMITTEE Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young > Adnan Bhutta, MD, FAAP, FCCM SUB-BOARD MEMBER American Board of Pediatrics > Adnan Bhutta, MD, FAAP, FCCM CHAIR, SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP ON GUIDELINES Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators (PALISI) > Samer M. Abu-Sultaneh, MD, FAAP, FCCM CHAIR, PREVENT SUBGROUP PALISI > Samer M. Abu-Sultaneh, MD, FAAP, FCCM CHAIR, HEMATOPOIETIC CELL TRANSPLANT, CANCER AND IMMUNOTHERAPY SUBGROUP PALISI > Courtney M. Rowan, MD, MS MEMBER, SCIENTIFIC STEERING COMMITTEE PALISI > Courtney M. Rowan, MD, MS CORE MEMBER PODIUM-Onc Initiative > Courtney M. Rowan, MD, MS
Specialized programs Procedural Sedation Team ■ Facilitated 1,872 procedural sedations in 2025 ■ Only program in Indiana to offer nitrous oxide for moderate procedural sedation (285 completed in 2025)
Advanced technologies ■ Etiometry ■ High-frequency oscillatory ventilation ■ Inhaled nitric oxide ■ Kinetic therapy rotational bed ■ Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) ■ Aquapheresis
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■ Platinum Level ECMO Center of Excellence designated by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization ■ Serves the critical care needs of Indiana’s largest pediatric trauma program ■ The state’s only pediatric hospital with a dedicated burn ICU ■ Center of Excellence in Pediatric Sedation; designated by the Society for Pediatric Sedation ■ Serves as the medical control for the state’s largest pediatric critical care transport team ■ One of only 23 fourth-year pediatric critical care fellowship programs in the nation; home to Indiana’s only fellowship program in pediatric critical care
Committed to quality and safety ■ The Riley PICU remains focused on keeping hospital-acquired harm events, including central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and hospital-acquired pressure injuries low after our successes in 2024. In 2025, we had zero CAUTIs, and our central line infection rate (excluding mucosal barrier injuries) was 0.82 per 1,000 line days. ■ ECMO In 2025 the Riley ECMO program supported 60 runs across the PICU, CVICU and NICU for patients with life-threatening lung or heart disease. We established an ECMO transport program and successfully transported two patients. Riley Children’s was honored in 2025 with our third consecutive designation as an ECMO Platinum Center of Excellence by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization. ■ Reducing pediatric cardiac arrest We initiated a quality improvement project aimed at decreasing cardiac arrest in the PICU through identification of high-risk, critically ill children, improved situational awareness and fostering a culture of safety.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS Lancet Global Health: February 2025
Prevalence, aetiology and hospital outcomes of paediatric acute critical illness in resource-constrained settings (Global PARITY): A multicentre, international, point prevalence and prospective cohort study Shock: January 2026 Abnormal platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio is associated with poor outcomes in pediatric sepsis Pediatric Quality and Safety: May 2025 A standardized approach to reduce fluid overload in critically ill children
63 research publications in 2025
OUR TEAM ALSO PUBLISHED IN: The Journal of Pediatrics Pediatric Critical Care Medicine
PICU Annual Admissions: 2022 – 2025
2,872 2,752
2,587 2,593
DIVISION CHIEF Adnan Bhutta, MD, FAAP, FCCM Professor of Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Bhutta on Doximity.
Average daily census of 34.26
31 board certified physicians
See full team member list >
2022
2023
2024
2025
IU Health 24/7 Transfer Center 877.247.1177
The pediatric dentists at Riley Children’s Health—faculty members of Indiana University School of Dentistry—are skilled in providing comprehensive dental care to children of all ages. Riley dentists have extensive experience in treating children with complex medical issues. These conditions include physical disabilities, craniofacial anomalies, genetic disorders, liver and kidney disease, bleeding disorders, and congenital and acquired heart problems. Our team works closely with Riley specialists to optimize health outcomes for these medically compromised patients. DENTISTRY
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
Pediatric Dentistry: January 2025 Hall crown technique use among USA pediatric dentists Pediatric Dentistry: September 2025 Comparison of pulse oximetry and blood pressure measurements between sensor locations in children during dental procedures Journal of the American Dental Association: January 2026 American Dental Association and American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology patient selection for dental radiography and cone-beam computed tomography: Clinical recommendations
Pediatric dentistry at Riley Children’s is in the third year of a five-year grant from the Health Resources & Services Administration. The grant funds efforts to improve children’s access to dental care and provide preventive and restorative services, while working with the medical community to educate future primary care providers.
Advanced technologies
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Professional organization affiliations COUNCIL ON SCIENTIFIC AFFAIRS American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry > Allison C. Scully, DDS, MS DIRECTOR American Board of Oral Medicine > Juan F. Yepes, DDS, MD, MPH, MS, DrPH COMMITTEE ON PEDIATRIC DENTAL SEDATION American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry > Brian J. Sanders, DDS, MS PROGRAM DIRECTOR COMMITTEE INSERVICE EXAMINATION COMMITTEE American Board of Pediatric Dentistry > LaQuia A. Vinson, DDS, MPH COMMITTEE ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION American Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Association > LaQuia A. Vinson, DDS, MPH EXAMINATION COMMITTEE
■ Riley Children’s is one of the few craniofacial centers in the Midwest to provide presurgical orthopedics using DynaCleft® tape to help align soft tissues and bones. ■ With iTero,®the newest digital scanner, we are able to expand the diagnostic and orthodontic services available to patients.
■ Nationally recognized faculty with diverse expertise in dental care of children with special medical, emotional and psychological needs ■ Team includes dentists board certified in oral radiology, oral medicine, pediatric dentistry and orthodontics ■ Indiana’s only pediatric dental residency program
Our team sees as many as 120 patients a day.
Riley Dentistry Volume: 2025
Patient visits 13,879
American Dental Association > LaQuia A. Vinson, DDS, MPH ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent , the longest-running international textbook in pediatric dentistry, was written by dentistry faculty at Riley Children’s and medical colleagues at IU School of Medicine. Originally published in 1963, the textbook has been translated into eight languages. The 11th edition was released in 2021.
Journal of the American Dental Association > Juan F. Yepes, DDS, MD, MPH, MS, DrPH EDITORIAL BOARD Journal of Dentistry for Children > LaQuia A. Vinson, DDS, MPH SITE VISITOR Commission on Dental Accreditation > LaQuia A. Vinson, DDS, MPH > Juan F. Yepes, DDS, MD, MPH, MS, DrPH
New patients 2,225
DIVISION CHIEF Brian J. Sanders, DDS, MS Chair of Pediatric Dentistry, IU School of Dentistry > Connect with Dr. Sanders on Doximity.
Dental operating room surgeries 956
A high-volume practice, the Riley Dental Center has 4 full-time faculty, 9 part-time faculty and 14 residents on staff.
4 board certified dentists
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Board certified pediatric dermatologists at Riley Children’s Health provide high-quality care and the latest treatments for common dermatological conditions, such as eczema and acne, and more complex disorders of the skin. Through expert diagnosis and interventions, our goal is to improve quality of life for children with skin disease. DERMATOLOGY
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
■ National study to define diagnostic criteria for hemangiomas associated with LUMBAR syndrome ■ Study investigating the clinical features and genetic mutations associated with vascular overgrowth syndromes ■ Comprehensive review article describing dental anomalies in congenital ichthyoses ■ National study focused on the long-term sequelae of PHACE syndrome ■ Research aimed at understanding hemangiomas that experience aggressive ulceration
Specialized programs
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NEW IN 2026 Dermatology-Oncology Program Riley dermatologists provide specialized care for children undergoing cancer-related therapies, including surveillance of patients at high risk for developing skin cancers due to immunosuppression. Advanced technologies and procedures Pulsed-dye and Nd:YAG laser treatments Specialized surgical procedures targeting birthmarks, port wine stains and other vascular tumors and malformations.
Hemangioma Program Specialized experts at Riley Children’s evaluate and treat children with infantile hemangiomas; offer the latest therapeutic options and participate in international clinical studies. Vascular Lesions Program We provide skilled multidisciplinary care for children with complex vascular tumors and malformations, including: ■ Congenital hemangiomas ■ Infantile hemangiomas ■ Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma ■ Venous malformation ■ Lymphatic malformation ■ Other complex vascular syndromes ■ Sturge-Weber syndrome We offer unique access to a coordinated care model with specialists from dermatology, hematology/oncology, interventional radiology, otolaryngology, plastic surgery and physical therapy.
■ Nationally recognized experts in vascular anomalies with a dedicated multidisciplinary program that provides leading- edge care for children with vascular birthmarks ■ Only pediatric dermatologists in Indiana who are current or past leaders of the Birthmarks Research Group of the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance and the Hemangioma Investigator Group ■ Expertise using newly approved biologic medicines for eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin diseases
Professional organization affiliations PRESIDENT Society of Pediatric Dermatology > Anita N. Haggstrom, MD, FAAD MEMBER Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance > Anita N. Haggstrom, MD, FAAD > Anshika Kaushik, MD, FAAD > Jenna Streicher, MD, FAAD > Elham Zayed, MD MEMBER Hemangioma Investigator Group > Anita N. Haggstrom, MD, FAAD
Approximate number of children served by our dermatology program each year:
400 with vascular anomalies
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
Cureus: September 2025 Unseen impacts: Rural adolescents’ self-perception and mental health in the age of dermatology-related social media European Journal of Paediatric Neurology: February 2026 Multi-center study of long-term evolution of neuroimaging findings in PHACE syndrome
150 inpatient consults
DIVISION CHIEF Anita N. Haggstrom, MD, FAAD Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Haggstrom on Doximity.
Our Vascular Lesions Program is a referral destination for patients in Indiana and the Midwest.
12,000+ outpatient visits
4 board certified physicians
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Refer a patient online
T 317.944.7744
Highly trained clinicians at Riley Children’s Health care for infants and children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including those who may have co-occurring emotional or behavioral concerns. Our specialists conduct comprehensive neurodevelopmental evaluations to make accurate diagnoses and develop personalized treatment plans to ensure each child receives the care they need. We work in teams comprised of board certified physicians, psychologists, pediatric nurse practitioners, speech pathologists, dietitians, genetic counselors, social workers and other professionals. DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE
The latest Down syndrome healthcare guidelines were written by Riley developmental medicine physicians in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Health outcomes research Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Person-centered diagnostics and prediction for child dysregulatory pathology using novel phenotypes ■ Large multisite study focused on using machine learning and novel clinical measures to improve prediction, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions in children and teens. Family-centered research Funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Future planning and well-being for individuals with intellectual disabilities and family caregivers ■ Multisite study focused on long-term care planning for people with developmental disabilities and their caregivers. Funded by the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute Co-development of culturally grounded family neurodevelopmental education materials ■ Community partnership study to support Burmese and Haitian Creole caregivers of children with developmental disabilities.
Specialized programs
Advanced technologies Riley Children’s offers the
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Virtual Autism Assessments We provide two-hour virtual autism assessments—a research-based method for evaluating young children for autism from the comfort of their own homes.
Leadership in training and education ■ IU School of Medicine Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship Program ■ Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) ■ IU School of Medicine Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Residency Program latest genetic testing, including exome and genome sequencing. We have genetic counselors embedded within our division and collaborate with Riley Medical & Molecular Genetics .
■ Six physicians board certified in neurodevelopmental disabilities; one physician board certified in developmental-behavioral pediatrics ■ Home to the only psychologist in Indiana trained in the Early Start Denver Model behavioral intervention program for children with autism ■ Three psychologists certified in perinatal mental health; five psychologists trained in parent- child interaction therapy ■ Home to one of only eight six-year neurodevelopmental disabilities residency training programs worldwide
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Our psychologists provide PCIT to empower parents through coaching as they interact with their children using PRIDE (Praise, Reflection, Imitation, Description and Enjoyment) skills.
Developmental Medicine has a registry and database that support a robust research program focused on improving care and increasing understanding of the patients we care for at Riley Children’s. More than 1,800 patients are currently enrolled.
Our Neurodevelopmental Phenotyping Program partners with translational scientists across the state and nation to support innovative clinical trials. These include projects related to opioid use disorder in pregnancy, natural history in homocystinuria, pediatric ECMO outcomes and impact of chronic hypertension in pregnancy.
CO-DIVISION CHIEF Celanie K. Christensen, MD, MS, FAAP Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Neurology, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. Christensen on Doximity.
Complex Care Inpatient Service Multidisciplinary team
manages inpatient care for children with cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele, feeding problems, Down syndrome and other chronic conditions. Spina Bifida Program Our multidisciplinary program now offers care coordination services to help families navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and ensure patients are meeting their goals.
Developmental Medicine Outpatient Visits: 2023 – 2025
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS Clinical Pediatrics: June 2026
Pediatric residents’ knowledge and confidence in autism diagnosis: Impact of an asynchronous training module embedded within a developmental-behavioral pediatrics rotation Frontiers in Psychiatry: July 2026 Autism service barriers for Latine children and their families: A participatory approach to adapting autism diagnostic care Child Welfare: November 2025 Statewide placement disproportionality and outcome disparity for black children in foster care BMJ Case Reports: January 2026 Whole exome sequencing facilitates early neurodevelopmental diagnosis in an outpatient clinic
12,066
11,622
10,514
CO-DIVISION CHIEF Rebecca H. McNally Keehn, PhD, HSPP Associate Professor of Pediatrics, IU School of Medicine > Connect with Dr. McNally Keehn on Doximity.
17 board certified physicians (plus 14 licensed psychologists)
See full team member list >
2023
2024
2025
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