Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida Honored with 2025 Hospital Impact Award

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals presented on April 9, the national recognition highlights excellence in pediatric care

Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, part of Lee Health, has been awarded the 2025 Hospital Impact Award by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals). The prestigious recognition was announced during Children’s Hospitals Week, held at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel in Orlando, Florida.

Golisano was honored with the first award of the evening which celebrates exceptional commitment to pediatric healthcare and community engagement. The hospital was recognized for its unwavering dedication to improving the lives of children and families across Southwest Florida and for pioneering sensory-friendly care, including introducing the nation’s first sensory-friendly ambulance and becoming only the second hospital in the country to achieve Certified Autism Center™ designation. These milestones highlight Golisano’s leadership in creating inclusive, accessible care environments for children of all needs and abilities.

“This award is a testament to the tireless efforts of our dedicated staff, generous donors, and community partners,” said Dr. Emad Salman, vice president and chief physician executive at Golisano Children’s Hospital. “Their collective commitment ensures that we can provide exceptional care to every child who walks through our doors.”

In 2024, the hospital raised nearly $1.5 million through CMN Hospitals to support and advance critical pediatric care in Southwest Florida. The funds raised are essential to advancing care at Golisano Children’s Hospital. Also in 2024, the hospital performed 5,398 surgeries, including 140 neurosurgeries, and treated thousands of young patients, with 951 admissions to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and 48,202 visits to the Emergency Department. More than 65% of these patients were uninsured or underinsured.

“We are deeply honored to receive the 2025 Hospital Impact Award,” said Alyssa Kasiewicz, chief nursing and operations executive at Golisano Children’s Hospital. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality care to the children and families of Southwest Florida.”

For more information about Golisano Children’s Hospital and pediatric healthcare in Southwest Florida, visit GiveGolisano.org.