Pediatric Readiness in EMS

Mike Brown talks with Dr. Kathleen Adelgais and Dr. Manish Shah during EMS Week 2026’s EMS for Children Day for a conversation about where pediatric readiness in EMS stands, and where it still needs to go. Drawing on findings from the 2024 Pediatric Readiness Project national assessment, they examine the progress agencies have made, the persistent gaps that remain, and the practical steps EMS leaders can take now to better prepare for pediatric patients. With more than 7,000 of roughly 15,000 U.S. EMS agencies participating, the survey produced an overall readiness score of 66, highlighting strengths in equipment and supplies, medication and patient safety, and pediatric protocols, while also revealing continued challenges in family-centered policies, pediatric quality improvement, and disaster preparedness.