July 20, 2026- Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital in Denver has been recognized by EMS for Children Colorado with a Colorado Pediatric Preparedness for the Emergency Room (COPPER) designation, confirming the hospital’s emergency department is equipped, trained, and organized to deliver high-quality care for infants, children, and adolescents. Intermountain Health’s Northglenn freestanding emergency department has also earned COPPER designation, becoming the first and only freestanding emergency department in the region to achieve this recognition.
In the United States, approximately 83% of children seeking emergency care are treated in general emergency departments rather than specialized pediatric facilities. Research shows pediatric-prepared emergency departments can reduce pediatric trauma mortality by up to 60%, highlighting the importance of readiness in community hospitals.
The COPPER designation reflects a comprehensive review of pediatric emergency preparedness, including specialized staffing, ongoing training, pediatric-focused protocols, and continuous quality improvement efforts. At Intermountain Saint Joseph Hospital, this work is driven by a multidisciplinary Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator (PECC) team made up of emergency physicians, advanced practice providers, nursing leadership, and frontline nurses. The team leads pediatric-specific education, quarterly mock trauma scenarios, and chart reviews to ensure the highest standard of care for young patients.