Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Pediatric Emergency Department?
The Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) is located just inside the main entrance of Massachusetts General Hospital at 55 Fruit Street. When you come in to the main entrance, turn left into the corridor marked “Emergency/Vincent” and follow the signs. The PED is a distinct child- and family-friendly unit within the general Emergency Department.
Does my child need to come to the PED?
If you child is having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. If you are unsure whether you child should come to the PED, call your pediatrician. If you are unable to reach your pediatrician, come in to the PED.
What do I do when I get to the PED?
Check in at the front desk. Your child’s needs will be quickly assessed by a triage nurse, who will ask the reason for your visit, examine your child, and may be able to begin initial treatment for pain, fever, or dehydration.
Who will see my child in the PED?
A team of specially trained nurses and physicians will care for your child in the PED. Some of the staff in the PED are training to be pediatric or emergency specialists and work under the supervision of a physician or nurse. An attending (senior) physician will head the medical team that diagnoses and treats your child.
How long will we have to wait?
Children are treated according to the severity of their illness or injury. Children with life-threatening conditions are treated immediately. Others are treated in the order in which they arrive. We make every effort to treat all patients as quickly as possible.
What if we can’t afford to pay for medical care?
No child is turned away from the PED due to inability to pay. Your child will receive the same high quality of care regardless of your ability to pay.
