Almost every type of law enforcement and fire fighter organization has a national government or regulatory agency. However, this is not the case for Emergency Medical Services, also known as EMS. The term EMS covers paramedics, emergency medical technicians and first responders.
Most states have agencies that oversee their EMS services. These agencies are responsible for regulating several areas of EMS services including public and private ambulance services.
State agencies also certify emergency personnel. The requirements for certification vary from state to state. State agencies will also provide ongoing education for EMS workers.
The National Association of State EMS Officials brings these agencies together twice a year to share ideas about technologies in the field. The agency maintains a website (www.nasemsd.org) that discusses issues related to EMS and services. The organization also oversees several studies, including ones on air ambulance services and technology. The agency does not have any authority to make laws but lobbies state and national lawmakers on issues relating to EMS. The organization has four councils: Data Managers, Medical Directors, Training Coordinators, and Trauma Managers.
Despite a well-structured state system, many critics believe EMS needs regulation by a national agency. In response to this criticism, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced plans to form the National EMS Advisory Council in late 2006. The council will give advice and make recommendations but will not have any authority. According to the NHTSA, the agency’s tasks include:
- National EMS needs assessment and strategic planning;
- EMS standards, guidelines, benchmarks, and data collection development;
- Methods for improving community-based EMS;
- Strategies for strengthening EMS systems through enhanced workforce development, education, training, exercises, equipment, and medical oversight;
- Improved coordination and support of EMS activities among Federal programs
- Other issues or topics as determined by NHTSA and NEMSA.
The fact that no national agency regulates issues such as response time, training and equipment may be because EMS services are still relatively new. It was not until 1928 that the first land based rescue squad began in the United States. Even in the 1980s, many rural areas lacked an ambulance service with trained EMS personnel. These areas relied on volunteers or used ambulanced from larger towns.
EMS professionals who want to know more about the National EMS Advisory Council can log onto www.nhtsa.dot.gov.
Article provided by Kim Berly