Des Moines-based Mercy Children’s Hospital & Clinics has been accepted for membership into the Children’s Hospital Association, which represents more than 220 children’s hospitals nationwide. As champions for children’s health, the association advances public policy enabling hospitals to better serve children and build awareness of child health issues. It also serves as a resource for pediatric data and analytics driving improved clinical and operational performance among its member hospitals. “Participation in the Children’s Hospital Association offers us access to a network of institutions and people who understand the unique health care needs of children,” said Dr. Sara Schutte, Mercy’s pediatric physician lead.