WILMINGTON - Three new physicians have joined the staff of New Hanover Regional Medical Center's Pediatric Unit. The physicians began their duties August 4.

Thomas Paulson, MD

Patricia O'Brien, MD

Patrick Renton, MD

Thomas Paulson, MD will lead the new pediatric intensive care unit at the new Betty H. Cameron Women's and Children's Hospital. 'There's really not another more exciting opportunity to do what I want to do with the brand new Women's and Children's Hospital. The need for this service here is palpable, the excitement so real and the commitment so obvious,' said Dr. Paulson on beginning this new phase in his career with New Hanover Regional Medical Center. He attended medical school at the University of North Carolina before pursuing a pediatric residency at Stanford University. He then completed a fellowship in pediatric critical care medicine at San Diego Children's Hospital. Before coming to Wilmington, he was the co-director of the pediatric intensive care unit at Sutter Children's Center in Sacramento, California.

Patricia O'Brien, MD, PhD and Patrick Renton, MD will serve as Pediatric Hospitalists at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Dr. O'Brien attended medical school at the University of Florida in Gainesville where she also earned a doctorate in biochemistry and molecular biology. She recently completed her pediatric residency at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, one of the top 10 pediatric hospitals in the country. 'This job is a phenomenal opportunity. I get to help create something that's going to help some of the region's sickest kids. I'm also excited about teaching and research,' said Dr. O'Brien.

Dr. Renton attended medical school at the Medical College of Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth University. At the conclusion of medical school, he pursued a pediatric residency at the Medical College of Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth University. He has been recognized by many of his attendings as a leader and an outstanding physician. 'It's not a lot of times in your medical career when you get to build something from the ground up and take ownership of it. I'm happy to be here and look forward to serving the region's children,' said Dr. Renton.

The Betty H. Cameron Women's and Children's Hospital will open for patients on September 14.

New Hanover Regional Medical Center is the leading provider of quality and accessible health care in Southeastern North Carolina, delivering care to all in need, without the support of taxpayer dollars. The medical center takes seriously its responsibility as an economic engine for the community, creating more than 4,700 jobs directly and another 3,000 jobs indirectly.