Variety Children's Hospital

Variety Children's Hospital was founded in 1950 by Variety Clubs International as South Florida's first children's hospital. It played a crucial role in the care of children with polio during the pandemic. Over the years, the hospital has evolved significantly, contributing to advancements in pediatric care and research.

History and Evolution

In the early 1930s, Dr. Arthur Weiland, a renowned orthopedic surgeon in Miami, envisioned a hospital for children with debilitating orthopedic conditions. Following the rise of polio, the hospital became a central treatment center in South Florida. In 1983, it was renamed Miami Children's Hospital, marking a significant expansion in services and international recognition. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Miami Children's Hospital had become a global referral center for pediatric care.

Transformation into Nicklaus Children's Hospital

In 2015, following a generous pledge from the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, established by golf legend Jack Nicklaus and his wife Barbara, the hospital was officially renamed Nicklaus Children's Hospital. This transformation marked a milestone in the organization's history, further solidifying its position as a leading pediatric care facility in both national and international contexts.

Current Status

Today, what was once Variety Children's Hospital operates as part of the Nicklaus Children's Health System, the region's only healthcare system exclusively for children. It boasts over 800 attending physicians and more than 500 pediatric subspecialists, offering a wide range of medical specialties. The system includes multiple outpatient centers across South Florida and is recognized for its excellence in pediatric medicine, with several programs ranked among the best in the nation.

Educational and Research Initiatives

Nicklaus Children's Hospital is home to the largest pediatric teaching program in the southeastern United States and collaborates in research through the Miami Children's Research Institute. It is also a Magnet facility, a prestigious honor in nursing, and has participated in research delivering innovative interventions to children worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

From its inception as Variety Children's Hospital to its current form as Nicklaus Children's Hospital, the institution has remained committed to providing state-of-the-art pediatric care. Its legacy includes advancing pediatric health globally and training future generations of doctors and medical professionals.