100 ÉVES A DEBRECENI EGYETEM GYERMEKGYÓGYÁSZATI KLINIKÁJA A DEBRECENI GYERMEKORVOSLÁS ÉS A DEBRECENI GYERMEKKLINIKA TÖRTÉNETE

The tradition of pediatrics in Debrecen dates back to the 18th century. József Csapó, working in the intellectually stimulating environment of the Reformed College, is credited with publishing the first Hungarian pediatric medical textbook. The official inauguration of the current building of the Pediatric Clinic was held on November 6, 1924. The internationally renowned professor Félix Szontagh became the first director of the Pediatric Clinic in Debrecen. Under the leadership of his successor Zoltán Bókay, the clinic gained further recognition both domestically and internationally. László Kulin was designated as a full professor and director of the clinic in 1949. During his tenure, between 1950 and 1952, the country’s first air-conditioned ward for malnourished infants and premature babies was built. Professor László Kulin retired in 1972, and an excellent clinician, his colleague and student, professor Béla Kövér succeeded him. Thanks to Béla Kövér’s efforts, one of the first Perinatal Intensive Care Centers (PIC) in Hungary was established at the clinic in 1976. In 1949, László Kulin was appointed public teacher and director of the clinic. During its operation, in 1950-52, the country's first air-conditioned ward for emaciated babies and premature babies was built. László Kulin retired in 1972 and was succeeded by his colleague and student Béla Kövér, who was a well-known excellent clinician. Thanks to his work, one of the Perinatal Intensive Centers (PIC) was established at the Children's Clinic in Debrecen in 1976. Professor László Karmazsin was selected as director in 1977. He created the conditions for the development of several subspecialties, including psychology, pulmonology, immunology, and neonatal care. During his leadership period were also established the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) providing diagnostic laboratories and scientific research. Professor Éva Oláh was chosen as director in 1992. She established an admissions department and prioritized the development of hematology and cytogenetics. From July 2007, Professor György Balla took over as director. During his time, new departments were formed, and the integration of the Pediatric department of Kenézy Gyula Hospital into the Pediatric Clinic strengthened the clinic's capacity for comprehensive pediatric care. Pediatric care in Debrecen became a leading institution even by international standards. Professor Gábor Veres was entrusted with the role of director on April 1, 2018. His tragic death in January 2020 interrupted the exciting development of the clinic, which sought to merge the Debrecen and Budapest schools. Tamás Szabó has been the head of the clinic from February 2020. The development and growth of the clinic continued both in the field of infrastructure, treatment, research and education.