UNC Rex closing pediatric unit at hospital on Lake Boone Trail in Raleigh

The inpatient pediatric unit at UNC Rex on Lake Boone Trail in Raleigh will close at the end of the month, a spokesperson said Friday.

Lisa Schiller with UNC Rex told WRAL News there is an overwhelming need for beds for adult patients, so the hospital will convert the 10 beds in the pediatric unit to adult beds.

The pediatric unit will close Aug. 31.

"We are fortunate to be part of a large health system that includes UNC Children’s, which is ranked among the nation’s top children’s hospitals," Schiller said. "UNC Children’s medical office building across the street from UNC Health Rex’s main campus in Raleigh will continue to offer a wide range of care and services, including a pediatric urgent care clinic."

The emergency room at UNC Rex will still serve children.