The ordeal gave him the idea to start an emergency pediatrics center that is open around the clock. The Nigerian-born doctor opened Pediatrics 24 P.C. in North Jackson in September 1998. Kids can break an arm or leg or run a high fever at any time of the day or night, Ekelem explained.
Kids are just like the weather.
You just don't know what will happen. Too many parents rush to the hospital emergency room when something bad happens, putting a drain on the system, according to Ekelem and hospital officials. Emergency rooms should be used only if an injury or ailment is life-threatening, Ekelem said. But many people don't have another option. With his practice, Ekelem hopes to change that.