Raising the standards for kids

What are pediatric readiness recognition programs?

Pediatric readiness recognition programs are state-based programs that honor emergency departments (EDs) and prehospital agencies for meeting specific pediatric care standards. These programs encourage improvements in care, enhance coordination, and ensure children receive appropriate treatment from well-prepared facilities.

Why do recognition programs matter?

Analysis of 2021 pediatric readiness national assessment results shows that EDs that participate in recognition programs had a 24-point higher median score, on average, than EDs that did not. High pediatric readiness scores are associated with improved outcomes. (Learn more about pediatric readiness here.)

How are recognition programs structured?

Recognition programs vary by state/territory but have similar elements:

• Specific criteria that are based on the latest national guidelines on care. (Guidelines for EDs can be found here. Guidelines for prehospital agencies can be found here.)
• A set application process
• A set verification process that can include in-person or virtual site visits

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 2022 Grant Recipient Performance Reports; data will be updated annually in December.