Florida Takes a Major Step in Pediatric Readiness

Florida has taken a significant step toward improving emergency care for children with the passage of CS/HB 355, the Health Care Patient Protection Act. The new legislation establishes pediatric-focused requirements for emergency departments (EDs) across the state, helping ensure that children receive safe, quality emergency care when they need it most.

The law reflects growing recognition that children have unique physical, developmental, and emotional needs that require specialized equipment, training, policies, and care processes. Research has consistently shown that higher levels of Pediatric Readiness in EDs are associated with improved outcomes and lower mortality rates for ill and injured children.

What Is Pediatric Readiness?

Pediatric Readiness refers to an ED’s ability to provide effective care for children of all ages. Key components include having designated pediatric champions, pediatric-specific policies and procedures, appropriately sized equipment and medications, trained staff, and quality improvement processes.

National efforts led by the National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP) have helped hospitals assess and improve their pediatric capabilities. The goal is simple: every child should receive quality emergency care, regardless of where they seek treatment.

Key Requirements of Florida's New Law

Under CS/HB 355, EDs will be required to:

• Implement pediatric-focused policies and procedures
• Designate a Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator or PECC
• Provide pediatric-specific staff training on the policies and procedures
• Conduct Pediatric Readiness assessments
• Incorporate pediatric considerations into emergency management and disaster planning

These requirements align with nationally recognized best practices and create a framework for continuous improvement across Florida hospitals.

The law also directs the state to establish minimum standards for pediatric emergency care in consultation with the Florida EMSC State Partnership Program and requires reporting of assessment scores by specified dates.

A Model for Other States

Florida joins a growing number of states recognizing the importance of Pediatric Readiness as a public health priority. As Pediatric Readiness continues to gain momentum nationwide, Florida's approach may serve as a model for other states seeking to improve outcomes for children through policy, assessment, and quality improvement.

“The Florida EMSC Program was delighted to work with state partners such as Florida Emergency Nurses Association, Florida Hospital Association, Florida College of Emergency Physicians, and others to provide Pediatric Readiness advocacy and education to promote passage of this landmark legislation,” says Phyllis Hendry, MD, Florida EMSC Program Medical Director. “Florida has robust trauma, stroke and cardiac care legislation, so it seems prudent to do the same for children and their families.”

Learn More

Read the full text of CS/HB 355, the Health Care Patient Protection Act, to learn more about Florida's pediatric readiness requirements and emergency care standards.