First national report finds strengths, gaps in emergency care for children before they reach the hospital
Medical Xpress
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new national study reveals that while many emergency medical services (EMS) agencies in the U.S. are well-equipped to handle pediatric emergencies, significant gaps remain in areas such as training, quality improvement, and care coordination before children reach the hospital. Published in *Annals of Emergency Medicine*, the research is part of the National Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project (PPRP), a initiative aimed at enhancing emergency care for kids outside hospital settings.
The study highlights that many EMS agencies already have advanced equipment and protocols tailored for pediatric patients, such as child-sized airway management tools and specialized medications. However, researchers identified notable weaknesses in staff training, with some providers lacking opportunities to practice pediatric-specific skills regularly. Additionally, fewer than half of the surveyed agencies reported having formal quality improvement programs focused on pediatric emergencies.
Effective coordination between EMS teams and hospitals is critical for ensuring seamless care during emergencies. The study found that while communication protocols exist, they are not consistently followed, leading to delays or miscommunications. This lack of coordination can hinder timely interventions and ultimately impact patient outcomes.
Improving prehospital pediatric readiness is crucial because the majority of children who experience severe injuries or illnesses require emergency care before arriving at a hospital. Addressing these gaps could help reduce preventable harm and improve survival rates for critically ill or injured children. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced training programs, standardized protocols, and better communication systems to ensure that every child receives the highest level of care during emergencies.
This study underscores the importance of prioritizing pediatric readiness in EMS systems across the country. By addressing these gaps, healthcare providers can better prepare to handle pediatric emergencies, ultimately saving lives and improving outcomes for children in critical condition.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/26/2026