Baptist Health EMS programs receive Pediatric Emergency Care Award of Excellence
During National EMS Week (May 17-23, 2020) Oldham County, Henry County and Baptist Health Louisville EMS programs have been awarded the Pediatric Emergency Care Award of Excellence for 2020.
La Grange, KY (Wednesday, May 20, 2020) – During National EMS Week (May 17-23, 2020) Oldham County, Henry County and Baptist Health Louisville EMS programs have been awarded the Pediatric Emergency Care Award of Excellence for 2020.
Twenty-four EMS services in Kentucky were awarded this recognition, with Baptist Health EMS programs three of the 24 – Oldham County EMS and Henry County EMS are both managed by Baptist Health. The latest on the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) website mentions the total number of licensed ambulance services active in Kentucky was 220 as of 2017.
The Emergency Medical Services for Children (KYEMSC) Program managed by the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services presented the award. The KYEMSC Voluntary EMS Pediatric Recognition Program honors EMS agencies who meet established criteria, beyond regulatory requirements, which are designed to improve the agency's capabilities to deliver care to pediatric patients.
In a press release issued by KBEMS, Morgan Scaggs, KYEMSC Project Director said, “Children make up a small number of the patients we see in EMS. While that is clearly a good thing, it also means we have less direct experience in meeting their unique needs. EMS providers must make a deliberate effort to remain proficient in caring for children.” Scaggs added, “These agencies have demonstrated that they are committed to improving emergency pediatric care and they are raising the bar for everyone.”
This is the first year receiving the award for Henry County EMS and Baptist Health Louisville EMS, who have both been a part of Baptist Health for less than a year. Oldham County EMS is a recipient for the second consecutive year. The acknowledgement falls during National EMS Week, a week that celebrates and recognizes EMS practitioners for all that they do in our communities.
“We are pleased to be recognized for our dedication to go above and beyond in caring for pediatric patients,” said Colonel Keith Smith, BS, EMT-B, Director of EMS for Oldham County, Henry County and Baptist Health Louisville. “This is the first time the three Baptist Health EMS services have simultaneously received this recognition. Pairing the award with all of the appreciation our team members have received during National EMS Week has been extra special.”
As part of National EMS Week, Baptist Health joins the American College of Emergency Physicians, the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, and other organizations across the country in celebrating the skill and dedication of Emergency Medical Services personnel. We are proud to partner with agencies across Kentucky and southern Indiana dedicated to providing advanced, patient-centered care – even in the most stressful situations.
“Thank you, EMS members, for easing pain, providing comfort, and saving lives in our communities,” said Baptist Health La Grange President Clint Kaho. “You are truly the face of hope in the face of crisis, and we’re grateful for all you do.”
When it comes to emergency treatment, high-quality, timely care can mean the difference between life and death. Many times, emergency dispatchers and paramedics are the first point of care for our patients, and we are grateful for their steadfast commitment to safety and 24/7 service.