Marshall Health Network Emergency Departments achieve Always Ready for Kids recognition

Marshall Health Network (MHN) announced today that the Emergency Departments at Cabell Huntington Hospital (CHH) and St. Mary’s Medical Center (SMMC) have joined Rivers Health in achieving the Always Ready for Kids (ARK) recognition from the state of West Virginia, demonstrating excellence in pediatric emergency care.

To earn the recognition, each emergency department met the state’s highest standards for pediatric emergency care — including having the right equipment, trained staff and protocols in place to care for children of all ages. Rivers Health earned the designation in November, while CHH and SMMC earned the designation in January.

“When a child is brought to the emergency room, families deserve confidence and peace of mind. This recognition confirms that Marshall Health Network has made pediatric care a priority at every level, and our emergency teams are ready to meet the unique needs of children,” said Melanie Akers, vice president for women’s and children’s services, MHN.

Research by the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) shows that emergency departments that participate in a pediatric readiness recognition program score significantly higher on the National Pediatric Readiness Project Assessment. High Pediatric Readiness can reduce mortality risk by up to 76 percent.

“As the home of Hoops Family Children’s Hospital, we strive to set the standard for pediatric care,” said Tim Martin, President, CHH. “Achieving ARK recognition reinforces our long-standing commitment to children. Our emergency teams work to meet the needs of our youngest and most vulnerable patients every day.”

“We are proud that St. Mary’s Medical Center has been recognized as Ready for Kids,” said Angie Swearingen, President, SMMC. “This recognition, along with the support we receive from Hoops Family Children’s Hospital, MHN’s Pediatric Center of Excellence, reflects our focus on preparedness when a child comes to St. Mary’s in an emergent and unexpected situation, allowing our teams to provide timely, high-quality care and connect families to the right level of pediatric services within our system.”

A program of the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services within the Department of Health, the goal of the ARK program is to ensure that children who need treatment for life-threatening illnesses or injuries have access to appropriate facilities, equipment and trained personnel. West Virginia is one of 17 states with a pediatric readiness recognition program.