As the Medical Director of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital, Dr. Gary Goodman frequently witnesses the devastating effects of unintentional injuries on children and their families.  From traumatic brain injury to the tragedy of childhood drowning, Dr. Goodman’s experiences as a pediatric critical care physician have motivated him to passionately lend his voice, expertise and time to prevention efforts in Orange County.

Dr. Goodman is an active speaker in the community and recently contributed to the development of CHOC’s drowning prevention video “Three Tragic Seconds – Time to Make a Difference,” including accompanying curriculum.  He was also a speaker at the 2008 National Drowning Prevention Symposium.

In the area of traumatic brain injury, Dr. Goodman is the only pediatric representative on a multidisciplinary team that developed a comprehensive traumatic brain injury protocol, which has dramatically reduced morbidity and mortality from traumatic brain injury in children.  Using his expertise to benefit children across the United States, Dr. Goodman is also the only pediatric subspecialist participating in the Adam Williams Traumatic Brain Injury Initiative, which trains hospitals all over the country to improve treatment for traumatic brain injuries.

This compassionate physician, recognized as one of the “Best Doctors in America” for the last three years, is truly a hospital hero – and was recognized as such by the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC).  Dr. Goodman was recently named one of the 2008 Hospital Heroes by HASC.  His compassion, commitment to care and his advocacy efforts in preventing unintentional injuries certainly make him a hero to the children and families in Orange County.

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