Sample Emergency Department Policy for Care of Children with Medical Complexity

Resource Overview

• Sample ED policy outlining standardized, family-centered care for Children with Medical Complexity (CMC), including early identification and risk stratification.
• Defines coordination processes with medical homes and subspecialists, dynamic care plan review, and shared decision-making expectations.
• Includes a structured ED workflow appendix to guide evaluation, care coordination, disposition, and documentation.

How to Use This Resource

• Adapt identification criteria, communication pathways, and documentation standards to align with your ED’s EHR and local specialty networks.
• Integrate the workflow steps into triage protocols, staff education, and simulation training.
• Use as a framework for quality improvement, monitoring coordination, follow-up completion, and return visit trends.