Arizona Agencies Recognized for Excellence in Pediatric Emergency Care Through Groundbreaking Recognition Program

Six emergency medical services (EMS) agencies across Arizona have been recognized for their commitment to pediatric emergency care through the Making Arizona Ready for Kids (MARK) Program, the state’s first and only prehospital pediatric recognition program. This pioneering initiative sets a new standard for prehospital pediatric readiness by acknowledging EMS agencies that excel in preparing their personnel, protocols, and equipment to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients in the prehospital setting. 

The MARK Program, hosted by the Arizona EMS for Children (EMSC) Program, celebrates agencies that demonstrate clinical excellence, continuous training, specialized pediatric equipment, and community engagement, all with the shared mission of improving outcomes for Arizona’s youngest and most vulnerable patients. The MARK Program evaluates EMS agencies across several domains, including:

• Pediatric-centered clinical training
• Availability and appropriate use of pediatric-specific equipment
• Integration of pediatric protocols aligned with best practices
• Community education and injury prevention initiatives

Achieving recognition through the MARK Program requires agencies to undergo a self-assessment and validation process. Agencies demonstrating exceptional levels of preparedness quality for the Prepared Advanced Care recognition tier. The agencies recognized for the year 2025 are:

• Arizona Fire and Medical Authority in Sun City West
• Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority in Prescott Valley
• Gila River Emergency Medical Services in Sacaton
• Life Line Ambulance Services in Prescott
• Maricopa Fire and Medical Department in Maricopa
• Puerco Valley Fire District in Sanders

These agencies have integrated advanced pediatric training, such as Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), neonatal resuscitation, and the use of software such as the Handtevy system into their operational readiness plans. In addition, these agencies have enhanced their community outreach with injury prevention programs, child passenger safety seat events, and school-based education initiatives on topics like bleeding control, drownings, and CPR. 

Join us in celebrating these agencies as they pioneer prehospital pediatric recognition for the state of Arizona.