Wisconsin’s Strong Showing in the National Pediatric Readiness Assessment

Wisconsin emergency departments (EDs) have shown a strong commitment to improving care for children. In the 2026 National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP) Assessment, Wisconsin achieved an impressive 86% response rate, representing 119 EDs statewide. This shows the dedication of Wisconsin health care professionals who recognize the importance of being ready for pediatric patients.

Every child deserves emergency care that meets their unique needs. By participating in the assessment, Wisconsin EDs took an important step to improve pediatric emergency care.

Why pediatric readiness matters
Children are not simply small adults. Their physical, developmental and emotional needs differ a lot from adults. Pediatric readiness means EDs have the right policies, equipment, training and staff to give effective emergency care. Taking the NPRP Assessment is key to improving pediatric readiness. Higher scores on the assessment are linked to better outcomes sick and injured children.

In additional to the assessment, NPRP’s Roadmap to Pediatric Readiness gives EDs a practical, step-by-step framework to build and sustain pediatric readiness over time. The roadmap focuses on long-term strategies, not one-time fixes, to support steady growth and measurable progress.

What you can do today
Improving pediatric readiness doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Start with three simple actions:

• Designate a Nurse and Physician Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator (PECC). Having PECCs in place is one of the most effective ways to champion pediatric readiness in your ED. All PECCs should complete our PECC Commitment form.
• Complete the Pediatric Readiness Assessment. If your organization hasn’t taken part yet, complete the assessment process. It helps identify strengths, gaps and opportunities to improve care for children.
• Connect with Wisconsin Emergency Medical Services for Children (WI EMSC). Reach out for resources, guidance and support to help your team turn assessment results into real improvements. If you’re ready to connect, email Carissa Brunner, program leader.

Small steps taken today can make a big difference when the next child arrives in your ED. Together, we can make sure every Wisconsin ED is ready to give high-quality care to children when it matters most.