Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital ED renews autism certification

The emergency department at Memorial Hospital Miramar renewed its Certified Autism Center designation through IBCCES, reinforcing its focus on care for children with autism and sensory sensitivities. The renewal comes as the department expands staff training and accessibility measures for patients and families.

Why it matters: - The renewal signals that the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Emergency Department at Memorial Hospital Miramar is still building autism-friendly care into daily operations. - The designation matters for children with autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivities, and their families, who can face added stress in emergency settings. - The certification also gives the hospital a formal benchmark for staff training and patient experience.

What happened: - The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Emergency Department at Memorial Hospital Miramar renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, or IBCCES. - The department has held Certified Autism Center status since 2022. - The renewal was announced in Miramar, Florida, on Oct. 22, 2026.

The details: - IBCCES requires at least 80% of patient-facing staff to complete training for certification. - The emergency department consistently exceeds that threshold and aims to certify 100% of staff. - Three Memorial Hospital Miramar physicians hold individual IBCCES certifications. - The department uses calming strategies such as dimming lights, bringing equipment to the patient when possible, minimizing unnecessary movement, providing toys, and building trust with patients and families. - Nurses also offer a sensory cart with tools designed to help children feel more comfortable and at ease. - Maria Ella De Juan said the autism certification supports more inclusive, patient-centered care and gives staff specialized training and resources. - Vera Burke said the certification strengthens inclusive, compassionate care and improves the patient and family experience across the organizations. - Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman, said the renewal shows continued dedication to compassionate, inclusive, high-quality care.

Between the lines: - The renewal suggests the hospital is treating autism access as an ongoing operating standard, not a one-time credential. - IBCCES frames autism and accessibility training as a way to reduce barriers to care, improve trust and loyalty, and support smoother patient visits. - The hospital’s certification may also help families identify a destination where staff are prepared for sensory-sensitive care. - IBCCES says its training and certification programs are used worldwide across healthcare, education, public safety, travel, and corporate sectors. - The organization also says its programs include long-term support, continuous learning, onsite reviews, and renewal requirements.

What's next: - The emergency department will continue working toward 100% staff certification. - The department is listed on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which offers guidance on certified destinations and sensory-friendly spaces. - Families can also use AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com to find certified locations and professionals.

The bottom line: - Memorial Hospital Miramar is extending autism-focused training and environment changes to make emergency care more manageable for children with sensory needs.