The St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department has earned a rather unique and exceptional certification that should make parents feel confident in the city's Paramedic and EMT staff should they need them to come to a call.
The number of Florida fire departments that have earned the gold accreditation for the PEDReady program is in the single digits. That certification assesses a department’s ability to provide children with quality medical care prior to arriving at any hospital.
"When it comes to providing care for our children, every second and every decision in an EMS call matters, that's why earning this accreditation is so important," SCFR Assistant Chief of EMS Alicia Schwann said. "At the end of the process, residents will see the PEDReady seal placed on our rescues, and will know that their child is receiving excellent care."
According to the Florida Department of Health, the PEDReady program serves to expand and improve emergency medical services for children who need treatment for trauma or critical care. The Florida Emergency Medical Services for Children partners with emergency departments, EMS agencies, disaster preparedness organizations, and families in the care of ill and injured children to enhance pediatric readiness. The PEDReady program has gold (which SCFR has earned) and silver tiers, each with their own set of criteria to be met to earn certification.
Accreditation is valuable in proving a commitment to quality pediatric care in the community, St. Cloud officials said.
"Providing top-notch pediatric care is not just a duty, it is an important responsibility to our community's most vulnerable persons, ensuring their best chance at a positive outcome and a healthy future," said Fire Chief Jason Miller. "This program validates our department's commitment to training and continuing education."