Published on March 12, 2026

Climbing to Support Pediatric Emergency Services at Barton Health


SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Every mountain climb begins with a single step — and every strong community begins with people who care deeply.

This year, Michael Habicht, MD, emergency medicine physician who cares for patients at Barton Health, is taking his commitment to healing far beyond the walls of the emergency department. Dr. Habicht is preparing to climb Mt. Makalu in Nepal, the world’s fifth-highest mountain at 27,825 feet, to raise critical funds in support of pediatric emergency services at Barton Health.

The climb represents both a personal challenge and a powerful mission: to help ensure children in the Lake Tahoe region have access to the highest level of emergency care when they need it most. Funds raised through this effort will directly support advanced medical equipment, specialized training for care teams, and family-centered pediatric emergency care at Barton Health.

“Caring for children in emergency situations requires specialized resources and expertise,” said Dr. Habicht. “My goal is to give back to the community I serve to ensure our youngest patients receive the best possible care, close to home.”
Community members are invited to support Dr. Habicht’s climb. Every donation brings Barton Health Foundation closer to enhancing pediatric emergency services for families across the region.

To learn more or to contribute, visit the Barton Health Foundation website: Climbing to Support
Pediatric Emergency Services -


About Barton Health
Barton Health is a nonprofit, community-based healthcare system serving the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding communities. With a long-standing commitment to high-quality, compassionate care, Barton Health provides a comprehensive range of services including emergency medicine, primary and specialty care, sports medicine, and world-class orthopedic care. Barton is a member of the Cleveland Clinic Connected and has been recognized consistently for its high-quality care and safety standards through accolades such as Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals and Leapfrog Grade A. For more information, visit bartohealth.org.

About Barton Health Foundation
Barton Health Foundation supports the mission of Barton Health by raising funds for critical programs, advanced medical equipment, facility improvements, and patient assistance initiatives that enhance healthcare in the Lake Tahoe region. Through community generosity, the Foundation helps ensure access to high-quality, compassionate care close to home. Learn more at bartonhealthfoundation.org.