CHA Publishes National Blueprint for Pediatric-Specific Readiness in Pandemics and Disasters

The report provides recommendations on how to ensure children’s physical and mental health care needs are considered in planning for pandemics, disasters and public health emergencies.
Download

CHA published a report entitled “Children’s Health Care Needs in a Pandemic, Disaster or Public Health Emergency: A National Blueprint for Pediatric-Specific Readiness.”

Children have unique physical, mental and social needs that differ from adults, and there are opportunities to ensure these considerations are included in future pandemic and disaster planning. The blueprint report urges policymakers to address challenges in key areas such as:

  • Strengthening the national pediatric disaster and pandemic response infrastructure.
  • Investing in the growth of the pediatric workforce to prevent future shortages.
  • Bolstering rapid medical countermeasure (MCM) response and access to pediatric medical supplies and equipment within the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS).
  • Ensuring timely access to mental health care services to children during pandemics and public health emergencies.

The recommendations in the blueprint report incorporate the results of a May 2023 online survey developed in partnership with FTI Consulting and completed by over 40 CHA members and Pediatric Pandemic Network (PPN) participants. The report also includes documented insights from a range of experts working in pediatric medicine, pediatric disaster response, pharmacy and supply chain issues and more.

Hand

Contact Us

For more information, connect with us.

(202) 753-5333
(202) 753-5366

About Children's Hospital Association

Children’s Hospital Association is the national voice of more than 200 children’s hospitals, advancing child health through innovation in the quality, cost, and delivery of care.

Related Content

CHA Applauds HHS’ Funding Boost for Childhood Cancer Research, Urges Further Action

Children's Hospital Association encourages policymakers and leaders to keep investing in better research, innovation, and patient care for children and adolescents with cancer.

Oct. 02, 2025

Why Life-Saving Pediatric Treatments Need NIH Funding

National Institutes of Health research funding is responsible for many curative and life-enhancing medical advancements for children.

Sep. 30, 2025

The Transforming Power of Sickle Cell Gene Therapy (and Why Access Is Important)

A revolutionary therapy takes some children’s lives to new heights. Others are left out.

Sep. 12, 2025