Executive Summary Childhood injuries and critical illnesses requiring emergency medical services occur many times every day throughout Arizona. Injury is the leading cause of death among children one year of age and older both nationwide and in Arizona and is among the five leading causes of death among infants under one year of age. Injury accounts for more premature child deaths than all major diseases combines. 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.
Enhance the current EMS system in order to optimally respond to the needs of children. Support the development and enhancement of legislation and other public policies in Arizona that promote provision of appropriate, timely, and comprehensive services to children who require rehabilitation and continuing care, including children with special needs. Make child-specific training available so that all those involved in the delivery of EMS to children are prepared to deliver needed services competently and consistently. Increase the availability of appropriate pediatric equipment and supplies so that those involved in the delivery of EMS to children are prepared to deliver needed services competently. Link, develop, or enhance where necessary, continuously improve, and utilize data collection systems that can be used for planning, implementing, and evaluating.