Health system honored for regional leadership in pediatric readiness

MU Health Care has been recognized through the Missouri Pediatric Excellence in Emergency Care (MO-PEEC) program, a statewide pediatric readiness initiative supported by Missouri Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC). This distinction reflects MU Health Care’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that children receive high-quality, evidence-based emergency care when and where they need it most.

The MO-PEEC program highlights hospitals that meet rigorous pediatric readiness standards focused on patient safety, staff training and preparedness, pediatric-specific policies and equipment, continuous quality improvement, and coordinated systems of care. MU Health Care’s recognition underscores its dedication to these principles and its role as a trusted provider for pediatric patients and families across central Missouri.

As the home of Missouri EMSC and the region’s only Children’s Emergency Room, MU Health Care plays a critical leadership role in strengthening pediatric emergency care beyond its own facilities. Through collaboration with community hospitals, EMS agencies and health care partners, MU Health Care supports a coordinated approach to pediatric readiness that ensures children across the region have access to appropriately prepared emergency care. 

“Every child deserves access to safe, high-quality emergency care, regardless of where they enter the health care system,” said Dr. Mary Beth Bernardin, pediatric emergency physician at MU Health Care. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our teams, but it also highlights the importance of working together across our region to strengthen pediatric readiness. We are proud to partner with hospitals and providers throughout mid-Missouri to share resources, education, and best practices that improve outcomes for children.”

National studies have shown that hospitals with higher levels of pediatric readiness are better equipped to deliver timely, effective care for children with emergency conditions. Programs like MO-PEEC provide a framework for hospitals of all sizes to evaluate and improve their pediatric capabilities, ultimately reducing preventable illness and injury-related complications.

MU Health Care encourages hospitals and emergency departments across Missouri to engage with Missouri EMSC and participate in the MO-PEEC program. Through education, training opportunities, and quality improvement initiatives, health care organizations can strengthen their pediatric preparedness and contribute to a more resilient and coordinated system of care.

Media outlets: Click here for a photo of the banner presentation.

Contact: Rochita Ghosh, rochitaghosh@health.missouri.edu, 573-876-0708