FAN work in the field

Featuring members of EMSC’s Family Advisory Network (FAN). Learn more about FAN.

Names: Katherine Schafer and Chad Kim

State/Territory: New Mexico

The New Mexico EMSC Program’s Child Ready Family Advisory Network is an initiative that empowers families and enhances child welfare through collaboration. With support from long-standing EMSC Family Advisory Network representatives like Katherine Schafer, BS and Chad Kim, NR EMTP, MA, the network has significantly impacted the community.

The program has designed educational projects to elevate the training of emergency medical services (EMS). Inspired by work being done in Utah with Jeff Wilson, NREMT-P and Utah FAN representative, it is ensuring EMS professionals are prepared to handle children's unique needs in emergencies, including those with special health care needs.

Hand in hand with these educational efforts, the FAN’s community partnerships play a crucial role in equipping EMS providers with the skills to support children with special needs. Schafer and Kim teamed up with the local autism society and Best Buddies to enhance the understanding of EMS professionals in managing emergencies involving children with autism and developmental disabilities. By focusing on empowering families as primary caregivers, EMS providers can collaborate effectively with parents during emergencies, providing the best possible support for children. Schafer and Kim are also utilizing EMS data to identify children with special healthcare needs. This data-driven approach allows us to provide targeted care and resources where they're needed most.

Pediatric disaster planning is another cornerstone of our network. Schafer and Kim work closely with EMS teams to develop comprehensive strategies that address children's needs during disasters. From ensuring the availability of pediatric medical supplies to providing psychological support, our planning is designed to equip EMS professionals to safeguard children's well-being in times of crisis.

In addition, our continued work on the safe transport of children in EMS and child passenger safety is vital. By developing and refining protocols, Schafer and Kim ensure that children are safely transported during emergencies.

Schafer and Kim are also focusing on developing family-friendly language to use in emergency departments and the safe transport of children in EMS, making communication and safety top-priorities during stressful times.

Through these diverse and impactful projects, the Child Ready Family Advisory Network believes in the power of community collaboration and the pivotal role of families in shaping the future of child health and well-being.