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Emergency Visits

Wait Times in the Emergency Department

Families who come to us with non-urgent issues may experience longer waits to be seen. When a child in our hospital or emergency department is facing a life-threatening emergency, there is no wait time.

Families should consider whether their child could be cared for at their primary care pediatrician's office or at a local urgent care.

What to Do in An Emergency

If your child is facing a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Important Announcement

United Medical Center to Close April 15, 2025

United Medical Center will be permanently closing all services on April 15, which includes the Children’s National Emergency Department at United Medical Center.

The closure is planned to coincide with the April 15 opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, a new, privately-operated, full-service hospital, located on the St. Elizabeth East campus in Ward 8. We remain committed to the health of our patients during this time of transition.

Locations

Our pediatric emergency services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at two locations in the nation's capital. We also offer pediatric emergency services from 1 p.m. - 11 p.m., seven days a week at Luminis Health.
girl being examined by doctor

When to Take Your Child to the Emergency Department

Our parenting blog, Rise and Shine, gives you guidance on when to bring your child to the emergency department.

girl being examined by doctor