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Escambia County EMS is proud to become one of only seven EMS service providers in Florida recognized as a Florida PEDReady Gold Tier agency for pediatric readiness, representing the highest level an organization can attain. This prestigious designation is awarded by the Florida Emergency Medical Services for Children State Partnership Program, highlighting Escambia County EMS’ dedication to providing the highest standard of emergency care for children.
The Florida Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Recognition Program recognizes EMS and fire rescue agencies that demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing pediatric emergency care, education and disaster preparedness.
The Florida Prehospital PRRP is composed of two tiers: Florida PEDReady Silver and Florida PEDReady Gold. Each tier has defined criteria that agencies must meet in order to achieve recognition. The recognition process involves a review of the agency’s application and supporting documentation, as well as a verification visit.
“Receiving the highest honor for pediatric readiness is a recognition we take tremendous pride in," said Escambia County Medical Director Dr. Benjamin Abo. "The men and women of Escambia County EMS train extensively in providing superior care to our youngest and most vulnerable patients. This recognition validates the rigorous training, protocols, and teamwork our EMS professionals demonstrate every day, and we’re proud to set the bar for pediatric emergency readiness throughout the state.”
In the prehospital setting, an average of 80% of EMS agencies see fewer than eight children per month. The infrequency of pediatric calls makes it challenging for prehospital professionals to develop and maintain pediatric care competencies. PRRPs are statewide initiatives designed to recognize EMS and fire-rescue agencies for meeting specific standards in pediatric emergency care. By participating in recognition programs, EMS agencies can demonstrate their commitment to pediatric readiness, which has been associated with a lower mortality risk for children seeking emergency care.
To remain pediatric-ready, Escambia County EMS ambulances are always equipped with honey, which can be used to slow down the harmful impacts a button battery, an item that can be easily swallowed by a child, can have on the esophagus. Escambia County produced a video that demonstrates the harmful effects a button battery can have on soft tissue. The video can be viewed here.
“Achieving Gold Tier status as a Pediatric Ready EMS agency is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to providing the highest standard of care to our community’s children," EMS Chief Chris Watts said. "This recognition affirms that our training, equipment and treatment guidelines are aligned with the best practices in pediatric emergency care. We are proud to lead with excellence and continue advancing the safety and well-being of our youngest patients.”
The Florida Prehospital PRRP is based on national consensus recommendations from the EMSC Innovation and Improvement Center (EIIC) National PRRPs Collaborative, the 2020 Joint Policy Statement: Pediatric Readiness in Emergency Medical Services Systems, and other established state recognition programs. The Florida Prehospital PRRP was developed in collaboration with the Florida EMSC Advisory Committee, Florida EMSC EMS Pediatric Readiness Workgroup, Florida Association of EMS Medical Directors, Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight, Regional Coordinators, Florida EMS Medical Director, and other state organizations.
Learn more about the Florida Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Recognition Program here.
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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