PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — You may have noticed Children’s Express Care across our area.

Unlike other urgent care centers for all ages, these are designed specifically for youngsters.

“Kids do have special needs, illnesses that are more common to their age group,” explains Dr. William Varley of Children’s Express Care Monroeville.

Here, pediatricians can provide their expertise, especially after hours, for illnesses that need attention and can’t wait until tomorrow for the child’s regular doctor.

“Ear aches, sore throats, minor injuries,” Dr. Varley lists.

Life-threatening problems are more appropriate for the emergency room.

“Kids who would need a higher level of care for trauma, or kids who are obviously sick, who might need an IV for dehydration, who are having difficulty breathing, something that would catch your attention as a more sick child,” he says.

Children’s Hospital has opened these centers in Wexford, Bethel Park and Monroeville.

“One, they’re nice geographically around the city, so you can get a north, a south, and an east location. Also, Children’s has existing satellites in those areas,” says Dr. Varley.

These centers continue to expand — a fourth Children’s Express will be opening in Lawrenceville at Children’s Hospital itself before the holidays.

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