Arizona Emergency Medical Services for Children Strategic Plan Extent of the Need Injury is the leading cause of death among children one year of age and older both nationwide and in Arizona.
Injury accounts for more premature child deaths that all major diseases combined.
The rate of child deaths due to injury in Arizona exceeds the United States rate. The need for emergency medical services among children ages 1-14, particularly in rural areas, is evident from 1995 mortality statistics. As with younger children, the need for emergency medical services, especially in rural areas, is highlighted by the 1995 mortality statistics. Statistics are not available on the number of additional children who required emergency medical attention at the scene or were treated in an emergency room and released. While the statistics noted above focus on the need for emergency medical services as a result of injury, there are many childhood illnesses and crises related to chronic conditions that result in a need for emergency care.