Department of Pediatrics

The society provides a forum for young investigators to exchange ideas and encourages research that benefits the well-being of children.

“This program dramatically improved continuity of care, implementation of best practices, and patient/provider education.”

A nationally and internationally recognized pediatric infectious diseases specialist and investigator, Salazar joins VUMC with more than three decades of experience in academic leadership, medical education and NIH-funded research.

By 2017, on the back of the opioid crisis, the rate of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the U.S. was estimated to have reached 7.3 per 1000 deliveries. Meanwhile, many newborns exposed to opioids in utero never develop the syndrome and must undergo needless monitoring in the hospital after birth.

One of two commonly used oximetry devices failed to detect low oxygen levels in 7% of patients with the darkest skin tone.

Nearly half (47%) of Tennessee children had public health insurance (TennCare or CoverKids) in 2024. This was the same percentage as private insurance (47%) and an increase from previous years of the poll.

With only a few months on the job, “Vee Vee” as she is affectionately called, is already in high demand and quickly adapting to her work environment.