Bill > SB0127

This bill establishes new requirements for emergency departments within general acute hospitals to improve pediatric readiness, defining terms like "emergency department" to include satellite locations and "pediatric emergency care coordinator" as a designated professional responsible for overseeing pediatric emergency care. Hospitals must develop and implement evidence-based policies for pediatric patient care, covering areas such as triage, vital sign measurement, medication dosage calculations, and the use of pediatric-specific equipment, and conduct annual staff training on these protocols, including hands-on simulation and emergency drills at least every six months. Each emergency department must designate a qualified pediatric emergency care coordinator, who will be responsible for implementing these policies, ensuring compliance with pediatric care standards, and coordinating training programs. Furthermore, emergency departments are required to conduct a pediatric readiness assessment, using the National Pediatric Readiness Assessment, and submit the results to the bureau, which may publish aggregate data and establish minimum standards for pediatric patient care through rulemaking. The bill also includes appropriations for fiscal year 2027, allocating funds to the Department of Public Safety for pediatric readiness initiatives, and specifies an effective date of May 6, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0127.html