The Early History of JDC Pediatrics
by James E. Jones, MD (retired)

JDC Pediatrics’ roots began in the 1950s when Bruce Corneal, M.D. came to Harrisburg and established a pediatric practice. In July 1963, it became Corneal & Jones, as, at his invitation, I returned after completing a year of residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. We practiced in a small four-exam room office at 2800 Green Street, located near Polyclinic Hospital. It soon became evident that we needed more space and as a start, we subleased a room for one-half day a week in a family physician’s office at 25 West Shore Drive in Camp Hill.

Jim Daly Jr., M.D. arrived in 1967 after having completed his residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Soon after Dr. Daly joined us, he became a full partner and was quite busy. Sam McLinn, M.D. joined us the next year (he subsequently moved to Arizona). The practice continued to grow and we expanded our West Shore hours. Misfortune came in the form of Hurricane Agnes in June 1972. The office was filled with five feet of the Susquehanna River and its muddy water covered all of our medical and financial records. Fortunately two blocks away, the third floor of the Kline Building of Polyclinic was vacant. We immediately reopened our office there and spread thousands of records down the empty halls to dry. Our salvation was the dedicated efforts of our staff with the help of a young pediatric resident, Bob Coldren, M.D. Dr. Coldren returned to join us after serving two years in the USAF. When the Uptown Professional Building was completed in front of Polyclinic Hospital (above flood level), we relocated our office there.

That was more than thirty years ago and the practice has grown by the efforts and addition of many loyal staff members and able doctors. The West Shore office was expanded and the new office in Mechanicsburg eventually replaced the one in Harrisburg. Forty years ago, the practice was built on the principals of the five “A’s.” They are as meaningful and timeless now as they were then.  They are:

1. Ability – both in the intelligent, dedicated staff and the well-trained, compassionate physicians.
2. Availability – of both of our locations and wide range of office hours. That was why evening hours and Pediatric Acute Care Service were added.
3. Affordability – Expenses were controlled and we participated in most health plans.
4. Affability – The friendliness of our physicians and staff has been essential.
5. Accountability – To our patients, their families, our staff and the greater Harrisburg community.

On behalf of the physicians and staff, I welcome you to the JDC Family!