Child life specialist program highlighted at board meeting; speaker shares patient‑care example from VCMC

At the Oct. 14 Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting the board heard a presentation during the “moment of inspiration” about the child life specialist program at Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC). Dr. Todd Flossy, a pediatric hospitalist and associate medical director at VCMC, and Caitlin Morton, a certified child life specialist, described services provided to hospitalized children and families and the program’s impact on care.

Dr. Flossy said VCMC remains the county’s only inpatient pediatric unit following closures elsewhere and described the hospital’s 16‑bed pediatric unit and local pediatric subspecialists who care for children locally. He recounted a case in which a child life specialist’s bedside continuity before, during and after surgery reduced anxiety and smoothed recovery and transitions. Caitlin Morton described her role in preparing children and families for procedures, supporting play therapy, training volunteers in the hospital playroom, and offering long‑term support to patients.

The board showed a short video featuring Morton and recognized staff and volunteers; several supervisors praised the work, highlighting the role child life specialists play as an integrated member of the pediatric care team. No board action was required; the presentation served as a recognition and informational item about local pediatric supports.