Excelsior Springs Hospital (ESH) is making significant strides in pediatric care with the addition of Dr. Joshua Umscheid, a Board-Certified Pediatrician. Dr. Umscheid brings a wealth of experience and a passion for children’s health to the community, offering a comprehensive range of outpatient services for patients of all ages.

Dr. Umscheid’s Journey and Expertise

Dr. Umscheid’s journey in pediatrics began eight years ago in Wichita, Kansas. He completed his undergraduate degree at Kansas State University and earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas. After completing his residency in Wichita, he pursued a fellowship in non-operative orthopedics, also known as sports medicine, in Kentucky. His decision to return to his hometown and eventually work in Excelsior Springs was driven by his desire to be closer to family and to bring his expertise to the community.

Comprehensive Pediatric Services

Now, Dr. Umscheid provides area families with a range of services, including well-checks, same-day sick appointments, acute rash and immunization visits, mental health evaluations, and sports medicine care. His services include:

• Diagnostic work such as X-rays, lab work, and testing
• Immunizations and vaccines
• Weight checks
• ADHD evaluation and treatment options
• Bracing and casting
• Treatment for sports-related injuries
• Metabolic bone disease treatment
• Support for neuromuscular disorders
• Concussion management
• Scoliosis screening
• Toe walking assessments
• Simple fracture care

Building a Pediatric Practice

ESH has given Dr. Umscheid the opportunity to build his pediatric practice from the ground up while also allowing him to practice orthopedic medicine and primary care. “The benefit of working here is that I can do both,” he said. The hospital also enables him to watch children grow up and stay healthy through adolescence while educating parents along the way.

Personalized Care and Community Engagement

After each visit, parents receive up-to-date information on their child’s health needs through personalized printouts. Dr. Umscheid also provides school notes if necessary. His background in sports medicine allows him to work closely with the Excelsior Springs High School athletic trainer to ensure student-athletes receive proper care. His expertise in non-operative orthopedics allows him to provide specialized care for young athletes who suffer injuries both on and off the field.

Collaborative Care

The hospital has physical therapy staff readily available for pediatric patients. Dr. Umscheid collaborates closely with them to ensure top-notch care. “I can see their notes for any of my pediatric patients, and we can work together at ESH, providing a one-stop shop for care. Parents can stop by and see me if they have any questions, and they can go upstairs for their physical therapy needs,” he said.

Mental Health and Evidence-Based Medicine

For mental health evaluations, Dr. Umscheid works closely with the hospital’s mental health physicians to ensure that each patient receives the necessary resources and support. His approach to patient care follows a hands-off method, with fewer antibiotics and lab tests, using evidence-based medicine to keep children healthy. “If something hasn’t been proven through literature or evidence-based medicine to be helpful, I typically won’t suggest it,” he said. “If something is shown to be helpful, I will offer it. If something is harmful, I won’t.”

Expanding Access to Pediatric Care

Dr. Umscheid treats pediatric patients from five days old to 18 years of age and provides non-operative orthopedic care for patients into their early 20s. His presence in the community gives families easier access to routine check-ups, sports injury care, and youth mental health services. “Ultimately, he values being ‘plugged into the community’—seeing his patients not just in the exam room but also on the football field, in physical therapy, in classrooms, and around town,” said Dr. Umscheid.

Future Developments and Community Impact

As Dr. Umscheid continues to build his practice, the community can expect further developments in pediatric care. The hospital is exploring partnerships with local schools to offer on-site health screenings and wellness programs. This initiative aims to ensure that children receive timely medical attention and support, reducing absenteeism and improving overall academic performance.

Moreover, ESH is planning to expand its mental health services, recognizing the growing need for pediatric mental health support. The hospital is investing in additional resources and training for staff to better address the mental health needs of young patients.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While the expansion of pediatric services is a positive development, it also presents challenges. Ensuring that all families have access to these services, regardless of their financial situation, is a key concern. ESH is committed to addressing this by offering financial assistance programs and partnering with local organizations to provide affordable care.

Additionally, the hospital is working to address potential staffing shortages by investing in training programs for new healthcare professionals and offering competitive salaries and benefits to retain experienced staff.

Conclusion

Dr. Joshua Umscheid’s arrival at Excelsior Springs Hospital marks a significant milestone in pediatric care for the community. His expertise, combined with the hospital’s commitment to comprehensive and collaborative care, promises a brighter future for the health and well-being of Excelsior Springs’ youngest residents.