De George Pediatric Unit at Jupiter Medical Center

jupiter logo

As the region's pediatric care leader, Nicklaus Children's is privileged to support colleagues at Jupiter Medical Center in the opening of the new De George Pediatric Unit. The hospital shared policies, procedures, training, competencies, and assisted with selection of equipment and supplies. In addition, Nicklaus Children's supported the development of a child-friendly environment, family-centered operational processes and work flows.

The De George Pediatric Unit is a continuation of a dynamic partnership between Jupiter Medical Center and Nicklaus Children's Hospital, was made possible thanks to an extraordinary gift from the Lawrence J. and Florence A. De George Charitable Trust and the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation.

From newborns and toddlers to adolescents up to age 18, the De George Pediatric Unit is a comprehensive, child-centered environment, featuring advanced medical and therapeutic services. Using the clinical guidelines and staff training developed by Nicklaus Children's Hospital this new facility will serve to advance pediatric care opportunities for families in Palm Beach County.

The De George Pediatric Unit features:

  • 12 inpatient pediatric rooms
  • Pediatric surgery suites
  • Pediatric therapy
  • Children's playroom supported by a child life specialist
  • Bear's Den for resting, inspired by Jack “The Golden Bear” Nicklaus

Some children may be referred to Nicklaus Children's main campus as needed for some surgical or critical care services. This will be at the discretion of the care team of the De George Pediatric Unit and the patient's family. The care needs and wishes of the child and family are always at the forefront when transfer decisions are made.

De George Pediatric Unit Team


Cristina M Pirez De Cardenas, MD

Primary Office: Jupiter

Additional Offices: Doral, Miami


Jackson Maina Nganga, MD

Primary Office: Jupiter

Clinical Interests: Pediatric critical care, acute asthma and minor surgery.


Anita Narasimhan, MD

Primary Office: Jupiter

Clinical Interests: Pediatric emergency care and incorporating evidence-based practices into community pediatric settings


Erika M Vazquez-Cuffe, MD

Pediatric Emergency Medicine Specialist

Primary Office: Jupiter

Clinical Interests: Pediatric trauma, use of ultrasound in emergency settings and high-fidelity simulation in education


Kristen V Walker, MD

Primary Office: Jupiter

Additional Office: Palm City

Clinical Interests: Pediatric emergency medicine and pediatric asthma  


Nicklaus Children's Pediatric Specialists

 A clinician identified with a Nicklaus Children’s Pediatric Specialists logo is an affiliate of Nicklaus Children's Health System. All other clinicians listed on the website are in independent medical practices.