Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC)

The Iowa Department of Public Health Bureau of Emergency and Trauma Services works with EMS leaders statewide to ensure that all children – no matter where they live, attend school, or travel – receive the best care possible in an emergency situation. Should an emergency or disaster occur, EMSC's goal is to ensure that emergency personnel are properly trained in pediatrics; that ambulances and emergency departments have the equipment, supplies, and medications needed to treat children of all sizes; and that well-defined pediatric treatment protocols and procedures are in place.

Note: For additional information on pediatric training, reference materials and how to help an EMS service bring pediatric education to its members, visit the IDPH Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator Resources page: Pediatric Resources  

Below are some resources that can assist you in planning for pediatric emergencies. For more, see the Pediatric Resources page. 

• The Healthy Habit All Stars
• Stop the Bleed Campaign
• Health Resources on Children in Disasters and Emergencies
• Pediatric Transport Products for Ground Ambulances
• 2022 Model EMS Clinical Guidelines Version 3
• Federal Government Best Practice Recommendations for Transportation of Children in Emergency Ground Ambulances
• Emergency Medical Services for Children Improvement Center
• University of Iowa Injury Prevention Research Center
• CDC Childhood Injury Report
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Safe Kids Iowa
• Childserve Pediatric Concussion Program
• NHSTA Car Seats and Booster Seats