Boone Health EMS Recognized as Pediatric Ready By Missouri EMS for Children  

Pediatric Ready recognition reflects Boone Health EMS’ commitment to preparedness and excellence in caring for children during emergencies. 

Boone Health Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has been recognized as Pediatric Ready by Missouri EMS for Children through the Pediatric Readiness and Excellence Program (Peds PREP), demonstrating the department’s diligence in providing high-quality emergency care for children in the community. 

“This recognition reflects our team’s commitment to being prepared for every patient we encounter, including our youngest patients,” said Josh Peak, chief of Boone Health EMS. “Pediatric emergencies can present distinctive challenges, and achieving Pediatric Ready status demonstrates that our team has the equipment and training in place to provide children and their families with the highest level of care possible when they need us most.” 

The Pediatric Readiness and Excellence Program provides a framework for EMS agencies to evaluate and strengthen their ability to respond to the emergency medical needs of pediatric patients. To achieve Pediatric Ready recognition, Boone Health EMS completed a comprehensive review of its pediatric equipment and its readiness for emergencies. The team ensured that all of its paramedics and EMTs has received appropriate training, created or updated any necessary policies, and continually holds readiness practices.  

A key component of the process was establishing a Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator, who helps support pediatric readiness efforts and promotes ongoing education, quality improvement and preparedness for pediatric emergencies. 

Mike McKeon, lead training officer for Boone Health EMS, was named the Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator. Peak said that Mckeon’s leadership and commitment were instrumental throughout the Pediatric Ready process. McKeon helped guide the department through the requirements and ensure the team was prepared to meet the program’s standards. 

“Becoming Pediatric Ready is more than completing a checklist,” McKeon said. “It’s about making sure our team is continually prepared to care for children and support families during what can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. I’m proud of the work our entire EMS team put into achieving this recognition.”