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Sponsored: Ranken Jordan Pediatric Hospital discusses new innovation program OZ

OZ is short for Optimization Zone, to help kids 0-5 become more engaged in social activities and play.

MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. — Since 1941, Ranken Jordan has cared for children and families facing complicated medical setbacks. They help answer the question- where do you go when you are well enough to leave the traditional hospital, but just not ready to go home? 

Dr. Nick Holekamp is the chief medical officer at the hospital, and he sat down with our host Mary Caltrider Wednesday morning to discuss their new innovation program called OZ. 

OZ is short for Optimization Zone.  It is a unique program that allows children in the developmental ages of 0-5, the chance to spend more time playing and engaged in social activities.  There became a growing need for kids to be more connected to their peers after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the country into a lockdown and a period of isolation. Sometimes, kids with severe medical conditions can't go home safely, so they tend to stay in the hospital for months on end. Thus, a new program was born to help make sure children don't fall behind in their development. 

To hear more about the doctor's journey in developing this program, watch the video above. You can also visit this website to learn more. 

THIS ARTICLE INVOLVES COMMERCIAL CONTENT SPONSORED BY RANKEN JORDAN. THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FEATURED APPEAR AS PAID ADVERTISING. FOR MORE INFORMATION, EMAIL US AT SMSL@KSDK.COM.

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