Loma Linda University Health Unveils New Pediatric Specialty Clinics

LOMA LINDA, CA — Loma Linda University Health leaders on Tuesday unveiled a new five-story pediatric specialty clinic that will bring more than 21 medical specialties under one roof, creating a centralized hub for children with varying health needs across the Inland Empire.

A 31-foot ribbon was cut to formally open the Loma Linda University Children’s Health Specialty Clinics. The 105,000-square-foot facility represents one of the region's largest investments in outpatient pediatric specialty care, according to Loma Linda University Health.

The project received support through Proposition 4, the Children’s Hospital Bond initiative, as well as Loma Linda University Health's Stronger Together Campaign. The philanthropic campaign contributed $15 million toward construction of the facility, the hospital said.

The new clinic will house more than 21 pediatric specialties and 149 exam rooms. Clinical laboratory and radiology services also will be available at the facility.

Hospital officials said bringing the specialties together is intended to make it easier for families to coordinate appointments and allow medical providers to collaborate more closely on treatment.

"Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital always has the patient in mind," Peter Baker, senior vice president and administrator for children's hospital, said in a statement. "This new facility will enable our clinicians to provide a seamless, coordinated experience for children and their families."

Francis Chan, chairman of general pediatrics at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, said the centralized facility will give specialists more opportunities to communicate and coordinate care.

"Each specialty brings a unique area of expertise," Chan said. "But when we bring that expertise together into a building like this one, something even more powerful becomes possible."

The building also incorporates features designed to create a welcoming environment for children and families, the hospital said.

A 10-by-15-foot mural was also unveiled during the ceremony. The mural includes more than 10,000 individual drawings submitted by children, families, patients, schools and community members.

The mural depicts Luke the Lion, the children's hospital mascot, playing with children among Inland Empire landmarks including the Redlands Bowl, Mission Inn and Arrowhead.

The facility's design is based on the image of a tree planted by water from the biblical passage Jeremiah 17:7-8. Natural elements are incorporated throughout the building and its surrounding areas.

Dichroic glass windows on the exterior create a rainbow-like effect, while a living tree in the courtyard is intended to provide a calming focal point for visitors, the hospital said.

Inside, images of animals and other animals are incorporated into the design to help children navigate the building.

The Children's Health Specialty Clinics is expected to begin serving patients in early 2027.