What are Pediatric Readiness recognition programs?

Pediatric readiness recognition programs are state-wide initiatives that recognize emergency departments (EDs) and emergency medical service (EMS) agencies for taking steps to become “Pediatric Ready.” These programs encourage improvements in care, enhance coordination, and help ensure children receive appropriate treatment from well-prepared facilities.

Why do recognition programs matter?

Participation in recognition programs is associated with increased Pediatric Readiness. Becoming Pediatric Ready is crucial as it is associated with as much as 76% lower mortality risk for children who seek emergency care. The cost to hospitals of becoming Pediatric Ready is less than $50 per patient. (Prehospital research is ongoing.)

How are recognition programs structured?

Recognition programs are based on the latest national guidelines on pediatric emergency care, but may differ based on local resources and the health care landscape. EDs and prehospital agencies must apply to participate, a process that typically includes providing documentation and engaging in a site or virtual visit.

  • Guidelines for EDs can be found here.
  • Guidelines for prehospital agencies can be found here.

How do recognition programs relate to national pediatric readiness projects?

The National Pediatric Readiness Project (for EDs) and Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project (for EMS) offer self-assessment opportunities and improvement resources. Recognition programs represent the final stage of participation in the projects by providing a way to verify and celebrate ED and EMS pediatric capabilities.

Which states and territories have recognition programs?

All states and territories should be working toward establishing or improving recognition programs for EDs and prehospital agencies, as newly required by 2023 performance measures.

See below for a map of verified ED recognition programs. These 19 programs have been verified by the federal Emergency Medical Services for Children Program.

Verification for prehospital recognition programs is in progress.

Map data based on 2023 Grant Recipient Performance Reports; data updates anticipated to happen annually in December.

Want to get involved in or apply for a recognition program?

Contact your State Partnership Program