Valley View, an independent, not-for-profit health system based in Glenwood Springs, is proud to announce it has been officially recognized as "pediatric ready" by the Colorado Pediatric Preparedness for the Emergency Room (COPPER) Program, marking the first Level III Trauma Center in Colorado to be COPPER verified. As a Level III Trauma Center, Valley View provides 24-hour coverage by emergency medicine physicians, general surgeons and anesthesiologists.

This prestigious designation highlights Valley View's commitment to providing exceptional emergency care tailored specifically to the needs of pediatric patients. 

The accreditation process is administered by the federally funded Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) State Partnership Program in Colorado. The process involves the highest standards of pediatric emergency care, advanced training and specialized resources. 

“Valley View prioritizes the care of children and their families,” said David M. Brooks, MD, chief medical officer of Valley View and pediatrician with Pediatric Partners. “This designation recognizes the exceptional emergency care tailored to meet the needs of our patients. We are very proud of our team for working to ensure every child who comes through our doors receives the most comprehensive care.”

Nationwide, children make up about 20% of emergency visits. In these emergencies, they require specialized care that differs from adult care. Being pediatric-ready means having the specific skills, equipment, protocols and other components necessary for high-quality emergency care of children.

Pediatric readiness is vitally important as it is associated with improved outcomes for acutely ill and injured children. COPPER, a voluntary pediatric readiness recognition program, aims to encourage pediatric readiness across Colorado.

The program has two levels of recognition: Pediatric Prepared and Pediatric Advanced. The main difference between the two levels is the presence of a physician Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator (PECC), which is required for Pediatric Advanced recognition but not for Pediatric Prepared. The program strives to help emergency departments achieve a higher level of pediatric readiness by providing key resources, support, and education.

Receiving a pediatric-ready designation is a significant achievement and underscores that Valley View is dedicated to the unique needs of pediatric patients in its community.

For more information about Valley View’s emergency care, please visit: https://www.vvh.org/emergency/.