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Prepared by the North Dakota Legislative Council staff for the Insurance and Health Care Committee December 1997 |
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES MAGAZINE -
ABBREVIATED 1996STATE AND PROVINCE SURVEY
ALABAMA
Responsible certification agency. State Board of Health.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 21.
Federal/government funding. Approximately $178,000 DOT/OHTS, plus $815,000 for State EMS Division; $4.3 million divided among Alabama EMS Education Commission, 6 regional EMS lead agencies for administration and regional equipment grants, regional EMS lead agencies/systems.
Unique funding methods. Regional lead agencies are supported predominantly by Special Education Trust Funds.
Important changes and developments within the last year. ALS and treatment protocols drafted and implemented. New EMS rules have been drafted and will be implemented in November 1996.
ALASKA
Responsible certification agency. EMT-I, EMT-II, or EMT-III: EMS Section, Department of Health and Social Services. Mobile Intensive Care Paramedics: Alaska State Medical Board, Department of Commerce and Economic Development. Physicians are involved in all levels of certification. In addition, a Memorandum of Agreement has been developed between the Alaska State Medical Board and the EMS Section.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 8.
Federal/government funding. Federal funds: $465,000; state grants to regions, $1,556,077; state EMS capital equipment: $717,730; State EMS Advisory Council: $14,632; Federal Highway Safety: $20,000; State EMS office: $454,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $400,000.
Unique funding methods. Some regional offices receive project income by contracting with other agencies to provide training or continuing education, and some receive project income from published materials.
Statewide data-gathering system. We survey ambulance services annually on types of calls, response times, etc., and we have a statewide trauma registry with data from every hospital.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. In May 1996, regulations went into effect which implemented the United States Department of Transportation EMT-Basic Curriculum throughout Alaska. In October 1996, regulations became effective which put in place a statewide system for the identification of, and response to, do-not-resuscitate patients.
ARIZONA
Responsible certification agency. Arizona Department of Health Services. This certification group includes a physician.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 30
Federal/government funding. None.
State funds to run state EMS office. None.
Unique funding methods. Funding of $2.7 million from assessment on civil, criminal, and local ordinance violations.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Authority to Director to integrate EMS services and facilities located out of state into Arizona's EMS system through contractual arrangements.
ARKANSAS
Responsible certification agency. Division of EMS & Trauma Systems, Arkansas Department of Health. Dr. Marvin Leibovich is Arkansas' EMS Medical Director. All ALS services must have medical director.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 11 professional, 2 clerical.
Federal/government funding. N/A.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. Approximately $375,000.
Unique funding methods. One county has a voluntary tax that supports the volunteer rescue squad; several subscription services.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office on a monthly basis.
Statewide data-gathering system. All ambulance services complete state-provided forms for each run, which are submitted to DEMS monthly.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Developing statewide Trauma System.
CALIFORNIA
Responsible certification agency. Certification of EMT I and II levels is the responsibility of the medical director of the local EMS agency; however, testing and EMT-P licensure is now the responsibility of (state) EMS Authority.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 34.5.
Federal/government funding. The federal government provides approximately $2.8 million in funding for systems development through the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant. Various agencies receive limited monies from DOT.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $809,000.
Unique funding methods. State General Fund appropriation of $1,435,000 for high tourist impact in rural areas; $1 million for poison control centers.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Legislation passed to allow EMTs (I-II-P) to work in small, rural hospitals took effect 1/1/96. Legislation passed to grant immunity to all health care providers, including EMTs, to honor advance directives.
COLORADO
Responsible certification agency. EMS Division. State rules require all levels of EMTs working or volunteering for an EMS provider agency to have a physician advisor. This includes non-transport services.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 11 full time.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $743,000 EMS office; $2,480,000 for grants to EMS providers and counties.
Federal/government funding. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes.
Statewide data-gathering system. Yes.
Current legislation: None.
CONNECTICUT
Responsible certification agency. State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health & Division of HSR, through the Office of EMS.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 17.
Federal/government funding. 1994-95 fiscal year Federal Block Grant, $278,657; State BLS training, $68,444; state funding for regions, $378,110.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $1,191,232.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Run reporting forms are available from OEMS, but are not turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Statewide trauma system enacted.
DELAWARE
Responsible certification agency. Ambulance Attendants--Delaware State Fire School; Paramedics--Office of Paramedic Administration Division of Public Health.
Under the new paramedic legislation there is State Paramedic Administrator and a State Paramedic Medical Director. Each county has an Administrator and a County Paramedic Medical Director.
Numbers of permanent state EMS office staff members. 3.
Current Legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance report form. The Office of Emergency Medical Service provides BLS ambulance report forms to all volunteer ambulance services. The forms are used on a voluntary basis. The Office of Paramedic Administration provides ALS forms to be used by the paramedics throughout the state.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Responsible certification agency. Office of Emergency Health and Medical Services, Department of Health.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 6.
Federal/government funding. DOT (402) funding.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $232,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. No.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. The District of Columbia Commission of Public Health was formerly a part of the Department of Human Services. As part of the District government reorganization, the Commission of Public Health became the D.C. Department of Health on October 1, 1996.
The new DOT EMT-B curriculum was implemented as of July 1, 1996.
A medical priority dispatch system was adopted and 911 dispatchers trained in its application. The system was implemented with continuous quality assurance monitoring.
A second university on-campus--only emergency response organization was approved. The District now has two such volunteer organizations which are operated and staffed with university students who have earned EMT certification.
FLORIDA
Responsible certification agency. Office of EMS.
Federal/government funding. None.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. None from general revenue. EMS office budget ($14 million) is funded through an established "trust fund" that receives constant revenue from certification fees, EMS penalties and fines, traffic tickets, other motor vehicle fines and interest on the accounts.
Current Legislation. Expanding scope of practice, training and certification standards, medical director's standards and administrative penalties.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes.
Important changes and developments within the last year: 1.) Rule reductions of 65% implemented; 2.) Prehospital run report restructured with an emphasis on electronic collection; 3.) New Department of Health created.
GEORGIA
Responsible certification agency. EMTs are certified by the Office of Emergency Medical Services, Department of Human Resources. Cardiac technicians and paramedics are certified by the Composite State Board of Medical Examiners.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 7.
Unique funding methods. Preventive Health Services Block Grant, EMS-C Grant, Governor's Office of Highway Safety First Responder Grant.
Legislation. Legislation providing additional protection for emergency personnel at incident scenes from obstruction by others was passed in the 1996 session of the Georgia General Assembly, as was legislation pertaining to procurement of pharmaceuticals. Additional significant legislation enacted into law included a primary act, replacing Georgia's secondary safety belt law, and a requirement to report child safety seat citations to the Department of Public Safety to add points to the driver's history.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. All services use a computer-scannable form, which is completed on all responses by licensed ambulance services, first responder services and neonatal transport services. Data are utilized for local quality improvement efforts, as well as state EMS system assessment. During 1996, several services began exploring electronic data gathering.
Important EMS changes and developments within the last year. One of the most important events during 1996 was also one of the most significant events in the history of Georgia--hosting the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. Thousands of hours of planning and training went into EMS' preparations to protect the state's citizens and the millions of visitors who journeyed into every corner of Georgia. EMS received many favorable comments, with one media outlet proclaiming "emergency teams react with uniform precision."
In early 1996, a multidisciplinary task force was appointed to perform an internal assessment of the state's EMS system and write a new state EMS Plan. The plan will be presented to the State EMS Advisory Council in early 1997. A multidisciplinary Expanded Scope of EMS Task Force was appointed and charged with examining two major issues: First is expanded scope of practice issues and whether or not there is a place for them in Georgia's EMS system. The second deals with all aspects of managed care and how EMS will mesh with emerging systems.
Also initiated in 1996 was a review of the Georgia Office of Emergency Medical Services' structure and its merger with the Georgia Office of Trauma.
HAWAII
Responsible certification agency. Board of Medical Examiners. This certification group does include physicians. State law does not require a medical director for each EMS system. Each licensed ambulance service provider must have a medical director.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 10.
Federal/government funding. $32,962,315 state general funds. These funds cover the cost for the total system statewide: emergency ambulance service, training, data collection, evaluation, quality assurance, communications system, and billing and collection of fees.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $1.8 million.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Statewide data-gathering system. Upon completion, the ambulance report forms are submitted to the state EMS office for data collection. Response times, critical care categories, mechanism of injury and illness, severity and severity trauma score, first responder medical assistance, discharge facilities, and EMS skills are collected for each census tract and ambulance units. Hospital emergency facilities return a patient disposition form that provides information as to patient disposition from the emergency department. These data are analyzed to determine the EMS system effectiveness, patient outcomes, data for development of injury control, public information programs and quality-assurance programs.
Important changes and developments within the last year. The Comfort Care Only bill was passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the Governor, thereby allowing terminally ill patients the right to pass away peacefully and comfortably without ALS care when their breathing or heart stops. Planning for the development of a Mobile Data System to increase efficiency in the field, maximize the use of support teams and minimize redundant activities.
IDAHO
Responsible certification agency. All EMTs, advanced EMTs and EMT-Paramedics are certified by the Idaho Emergency Medical Services Bureau. Idaho State Board of Medicine sets the scope of practice for all levels of EMTs.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 23.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $1,636,000, all from special fees described below.
Unique methods of funding. The Idaho State Legislature enacted a $1.25 fee for each motor vehicle registration ($1 going to the state EMS program and 25¢ being retained for EMS in the county of origin), and a $2 EMS fee on drivers' licenses, which are renewed every 4 years. These funds are used for EMS Bureau operations, EMS training, community grants, extrication and communications equipment.
Current legislation. Possible comprehensive EMS Act revision in 1996.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. The Idaho EMS run report form is completed on most incidents. A revised, scannable patient care report form is currently being piloted.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Most EMS run reports are sent to the central office for processing. State rules require EMS documentation and a minimum data set.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. 1.) Adoption of the 1994 EMT-Basic curriculum. 2.) Instructor orientation to new EMT-B curriculum is required to be an approved instructor. EMT transition courses began in early 1996. 3.) Comprehensive EMS legislation required the State Board of Medicine to relinquish its certification authority to the state EMS Bureau for ILS and ALS provider certification and service approval. 4.) New Board of Health & Welfare rules governing EMS being promulgated. 5.) Implementation of a prehospital DNR program using standardized identification devices.
ILLINOIS
Responsible licensing agency. Department of Public Health; however, the EMTs must be recommended by an EMS Medical Director. The Emergency Medical Services Systems Act requires that each EMS System be under the direction of a EMS Medical Director.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 22.
Federal/government funding. FY '94: $164,000 DOT 402 funds.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. Unknown at this time.
INDIANA
Responsible certification agency. Indiana EMS Commission, State Emergency Management Agency. Indiana EMS Commission 11-member board including 2 physicians. Medical Director is required for ALS and EMT-D systems.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 16.
Federal/government funding. NHTSA 402 funds have been utilized to establish the data collection system and traffic safety-related injury prevention programs.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $300,000/yr.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. A standardized run form is available from the state EMS office. This form is sent to the central site for data collection or the local provider utilizes a computer software program provided by the state EMS office and sends the data via diskette or modem.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. A data collection system is in place that includes a standardized run form and software program. Data are available through the state EMS office and include all information from the patient-run record. Data linkage planning is progressing to link the prehospital-run record with accident records and the trauma registry.
IOWA
Responsible certification agency. Iowa Department of Public Health. Basic and Advanced programs are administered through the EMS Bureau, Iowa Department of Health.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 12.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant.
Current legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. None.
Important EMS changes and developments within the last year. Iowa is implementing a statewide trauma system.
KANSAS
Responsible certification agency. Board of EMS. Certification group includes physician. State law requires a medical director for each EMS system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 13.
Federal/government funding. None.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $814,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. No.
KENTUCKY
Responsible certification agency. EMT: EMS Branch, CHR; Paramedic: Kentucky State Board of Medical Licensure (includes physicians). No state law requires a medical director for each EMS system, but a medical director is required for the described AED/SAED and IV services provided by EMTs. Paramedic regulations require a medical director for each ALS system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 18.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $2.9 million.
Unique funding methods. Ambulance taxing districts authorized by KRS Chapter 108. Prepaid subscriptions.
Legislation. Calls for consolidating responsibility for all EMS-related functions into a single lead agency within the Department of Health Services that would also have the authority to plan and develop trauma systems.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Statewide data-gathering system. Data copies of each run are turned in to the State EMS Branch. EMT certification files and run-form statistics are computerized and reports generated as needed for planning purposes or upon local requests.
LOUISIANA
Responsible certification agency. Basic EMT: Certified by Office of Public Health--Emergency Medical Services. Intermediate-paramedic EMTs: Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Certification group does include a physician. Medical director not required for each EMS system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 5.
Federal/government funding. $588,020 Federal Preventive Health Block grant.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. No state funding.
Self-generated fees. $250,000.
MAINE
Responsible licensure agency. Maine Board of Emergency Medical Services. The licensure group includes a physician. State law requires a medical director for each EMS system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 6.
Federal/government funding. PHHS Block Grant, $190,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $850,000 (includes regional offices).
Description of statewide data-gathering system. The Maine EMS Data Processing Unit gathers and tabulates run report data, and publishes quarterly and annual reports. Have begun linking EMS, hospital crash and other databases to enhance outcome research.
Important changes and developments within the past year. "No transport" and alternative spinal-injury management protocols implemented.
MARYLAND
Responsible certification agency. The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) certifies EMTs. The Maryland Board of Physician Quality Assurance, through MIEMSS, certifies CRTs and EMT-Ps. The agency has a physician medical director. Each jurisdiction with an EMT-Basic or ALS program is required to have a physician medical advisor.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 84.
Federal/government funding. DOT Grants and HHS Block grants.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes, 100% participation. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Monthly reports sent to companies (100% participation). Use optical scanning system to load data from ambulance run sheets into computer system.
MASSACHUSETTS
Responsible certification agency. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Office of Emergency Medical Services. State office has part-time medical director. Note that intermediate or paramedic certification does not grant "authorization to practice." Medical control and authorization to practice come from local and/or regional physician medical directors. State regulation requires a medical director for services providing MAST, S/AED and Epipen. All ALS services must have a medical control agreement with a hospital. Five regional medical directors delegate authority to local directors.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 17, both full and part time.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant. Amount for OEMS, $500,000. Amount for EMS regions, $400,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $150,000. State appropriations for EMS regions, $400,000.
Important changes and developments within the past year: None.
MICHIGAN
Responsible certification agency. Department of Consumer & Industry Services. Physician involvement required at all levels.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 9.
Federal/government funding. Block Grant and state general fund.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. None.
Current legislation. Amendments being worked on.
MINNESOTA
Responsible certification agency. State coordinates all exams. Certification group includes physicians. State law requires each EMS system to have a medical director or advisor.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 20.
Federal/government funding. Federal Department of Transportation, $105,000; other Federal, $350,000; State General Fund $449,000 (EMT training reimbursement) and $438,000 (regional poison information centers); State Fund, $703,000 (development and maintenance of regional EMS projects); seatbelt violation fines, about $745,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $790,000.
Unique funding methods. Seat-belt violation fine of $25; violation is a secondary offense. 90% of proceeds are dedicated funds distributed to the eight regional EMS systems.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is not turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Several regions have instituted regional run report systems and publish regional run reports.
MISSISSIPPI
Responsible certification agency. State Division of EMS. This certification group includes a physician. A physician advisor is required for basic services.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 19.
Federal/government funding. Office of Highway Safety, Division of Public Safety Planning.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $252,694.
Unique funding methods. Special state grant programs--the Emergency Medical Services Operating Fund--$5 added to each moving traffic violation fine collected. This money is placed in a special fund and grants are made to local governments for use in the provision of EMS.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. We utilize a menu-driven software program called EMSCAN, which was developed by EMS Data Systems of Phoenix, AZ. Ambulance run reports are scanned into a data base monthly. The EMSCAN software also controls scanner operation, checks documents for errors, compacts records, generates user-defined and custom reports. The edit criteria are based on 272 data checks, thus ensuring 95% accuracy in data collection. In addition to six standard reports, EMSCAN offers custom reporting, which allows the provider to develop an infinite number of selected reports.
Important changes and developments within the past year. New telecommunications legislation requiring dispatcher training and certification for all public safety dispatchers including EMS. Release of Trauma System Plan for public review/comment.
MISSOURI
Responsible certification agency. State Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, Missouri Department of Health.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 20.
Federal/government funding. HHS, Preventive Health Block Grant (EMS) $472,816.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $431,806.
Unique funding methods. Ambulance districts up to 30 cents tax levy per $100 assessed property valuation.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. Form is turned in to a central data-gathering office (575,000 received in 1995).
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Missouri Ambulance Reporting System: All ambulance services complete an ambulance reporting form supplied by the state for each ambulance run. One copy is kept by the service, one copy is left at the hospital, and one copy is sent to the state for computerization. An annual summary printout is sent to each ambulance service. All hospitals are required to complete a head- and spinal-cord injury registry. All state-designated trauma centers are required to complete a trauma registry. These reports are computerized and filed with the Department of Health, Bureau of EMS.
MONTANA
Responsible certification agency. Montana Board of Medical Examiners. This certification group does include a physician.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 9.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health Block Grant: $223,000; Highway Traffic Safety: $95,000; Emergency Medical Services for Children: $250,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. State General Fund: $347,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes, but not required.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Implementing a computer-based system.
Important changes and developments within the past year. Developing computer system for data collection. Developing injury-prevention program.
NEBRASKA
Responsible certification agency. Department of Health. A physician is included in the certification group.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 11 professional, 3 clerical.
Federal/government funding. Block Grant $489,956.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $408,285 (includes some training). $25,397 to Bureau of Examining Boards (which is responsible for advanced EMTs and Paramedics).
Unique funding methods. Taxes, donations, subscription fees.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. No; optional, with 90% compliance.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Ambulance service leaves encounter form with the hospital. Hospital adds ED diagnosis and prescription and sends form to State Health Department for statistical tabulations and semiannual reports.
NEVADA
Responsible certification agency. State Health Division for all of state except Clark County (Las Vegas area).
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 10.
Federal/government funding. None.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $625,000.
Unique funding methods. Local innovations, i.e., raffles, auctions, suppers, dances. No regional fund-raising. No special tax dedicated to EMS.
Current legislation. None pending.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes, for rural counties only (16 out of 17); however, agencies can utilize their own, provided the information can be electronically transferred to the state office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. System utilizes electronic scanner of prehospital-care forms with electronic transfer of data from those utilizing individualized data-gathering instrument. All entities must conform to a minimum set of data elements that include: kind of incident, care given, technique and by service; complaints/symptoms/possible cause, medical/trauma/specific part by age/sex of patient; miles, number of runs by type, times by hour of day and day of week.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Responsible certification agency. New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services, Bureau of EMS.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 15 full time, 1 part time.
Federal/government funding. 72% Federal Block Grant monies; 28% state funds.
Legislation. A complete rewrite of our EMS Training Rules are in process; Administrative Rules for licensing completed.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Statewide data-gathering system. Currently merging ambulance report form with hospital discharge data set and Trauma Registry data.
Important changes and developments within the past year. 1.) Statewide trauma system including hospital and Trauma Registry on-line. 2.) EMT-B curriculum rollout completed. 3.) Legislative changes empowering Medical Control Board to manage protocols and policies. 4.) Regions, districts and training rules developed. 5.) Trauma Medical Review Board appointed for QA, QI of trauma system. 6.) Formed regional data pool with 5 other New England states. 7.) Trauma system on-line statewide.
NEW JERSEY
Responsible certification agency. The New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services, Office of Emergency Medical Services. ALS systems have medical directors.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 24.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health Block Grant; Highway Safety (402) monies.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $4.5 million (includes "pass through" funding for the statewide Poison Information and Education System and funding for the medical component of the statewide Emergency Medical Services Helicopter Response Program and the EMT Training/Testing Reimbursement Fund, as well as special purpose EMS for Children monies).
Legislation. EMS for Children (EMSC). NJ became the first state to institutionalize activities begun under the EMSC federal grant program by passing permanent EMSC legislation and allocating state funding for the EMSC program. Legislation to allow specially trained First Responders to defibrillate is pending.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. At the ALS level and EMT-D level. Individual run sheets kept locally; aggregated data reported to state EMS office. Not applicable for BLS-level volunteer squads. Regulated BLS providers keep patient data (minimum prescribed data set) at their place of business, but do not report it. Statewide run report under development.
Important changes and developments within the past year. 1.) EMT-Basic curriculum "rolled out" to 600+ instructors and aides in 1996; 2.) EMT-Basic transition program initiated Spring 1996; 3.) 394 prehospital pediatric emergency care basic providers have been trained.
NEW MEXICO
Responsible licensing agency. The EMS Bureau of the New Mexico Department of Health is the agency designated by law to establish standards, promulgate regulations and administer the New Mexico Registry of EMTs. The EMS Bureau has an emergency physician as its State EMS Medical Director. The State Corporation Commission regulates ambulances as a public utility and recently adopted revised regulations which establish minimum standards for personnel, equipment, vehicles, operations, medical direction, etc.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 30, including regional staff.
Federal/state government funding. We now receive about $950,000 from the Preventive Block Grant and $60,000 from DOE for radiation emergency preparedness activity. State funds allocated to run and support the EMS program include about $650,000 for operational money ($360,000 to support our statewide UHF/EMS communications system) and $2.94 million for our EMS Fund, which is distributed mostly to local entities.
Unique funding methods. Since 1978, New Mexico has had a State EMS Fund Act that is administered by the EMS Bureau and historically provided $500,000 annually. This money was distributed to local ambulance and rescue services based upon the relative size and population of each county and the relative number of runs for each service within each county. In 1987, the New Mexico legislature passed amendments to the EMS Fund Act, which created a permanent fund based upon a $1 assessment on every annual motor vehicle registration. This generated about $1.85 million annually. The amendments also allowed the funds to be used for the training and licensing of local EMS personnel. Also, up to 10% of the EMS Fund was used to support system improvement projects selected on a competitive basis. In early 1994, the Legislature again amended the EMS Fund Act and appropriated $2.97 million from the General Fund to support it, repealing the dedicated Dollar For Life assessment on motor vehicle registrations. They also approved significant changes to allow the funds to be utilized for all operational expenses, create a program for trauma systems support projects, vehicle purchase projects and local and state system enhancement projects. They also allowed up to 3% of the Fund for administration.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes, but it is not mandatory. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office. A mandatory uniform data set is being explored.
Statewide data-gathering system. Participating services complete an EMS Service Patient-Run Report for each call on a three- or four-part form. One copy is held by the service, one copy accompanies patients to the hospital and becomes part of the hospital record, one copy is sent to the State EMS Bureau, and one copy can be used for billing purposes. Generally, services send reports on a monthly basis. The forms are edited and keypunched into the DOH computer. Reports are generated on a quarterly basis with data aggregated and analyzed for each service, each EMS Region and for the state. About 250 services use the run forms, generating 90,000 forms annually. In the coming year it is expected that a mandatory uniform data set will be collected from all EMS providers who receive EMS Fund Act money.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. In the past year, regulations have been adopted or are in the process of being written in all areas. The inclusion of EMS within the newly created Community Health Systems Division of the Dept. of Health should greatly facilitate our efforts to explore expanded roles for EMS personnel to provide public health and primary care outreach, building upon the Red River/Taos County Demonstration Project. In 1996, the EMS Bureau began to certify emergency medical dispatchers and air ambulance services.
NEW YORK
Responsible certification agency. New York State Department of Health. Medical Director required for ALS systems only.
Federal/government funding. N/A.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. System captures management information (dates, times, etc.) and patient-care information in order to assure quality of care. Lists injuries/ailments, treatment given, and hospital to which patient was taken.
NORTH CAROLINA
Responsible certification agency. NC Medical Care Commission is responsible for certifying EMTs; NC Medical Board is responsible for certifying EMD, EMT-D, EMT-I, EMT-AI, and EMT-P. Medical director required for all ALS systems, but not BLS.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 37.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health Block Grant, $213,128. Year 2 EMSC Grant from Department of Maternal and Child Health, $99,500.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $3,307,716.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Data are forwarded to state EMS office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. This system has been in operation for over 10 years. The program is PC-based, using FoxPro.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Emergency medical dispatch (EMD) became effective July 1, 1996, as a recognized level of EMS certification. Comprehensive review and update of ALS rules was completed; software package was developed to allow local data entry and electronic transfer of ACR data for local providers.
NORTH DAKOTA
Responsible certification agency. Division of Emergency Health Services and National Registry. Certification group includes a physician. State law requires a medical director only for ALS services.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 4.5, F.T.E.
Federal/government funding. DOT 402 funding, $100,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $124,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. Form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Data are compiled and distributed annually in the form of a specific report generated for each ambulance service.
OHIO
Responsible certification agency. Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of EMS.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 11.
Federal/government funding. N/A
Current legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Pending
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Pending.
OKLAHOMA
Responsible certification agency. The OSDH-EMS Division is responsible for testing and licensure of all EMTs in state of OK. John Ward, MD, is Oklahoma's EMS Medical Director. Each licensed provider must have a physician medical director, licensed to practice medicine in OK, to accomplish any medical procedure.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 5 central office staff and 4 regional coordinators.
Federal/government funding. N/A.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $425,000.
Unique funding methods. Ad valorem taxes, earmarked sales tax, earmarked city utility assessments, trust funds, subscriptions and donations.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Scannable run report and electronic submission of data.
Important changes and developments within the last year. Trauma development, uncertain future; pediatric training from EMS-C continues.
OREGON
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 18 (includes trauma-system staff).
Federal/government funding. $335,464 preventive block grant.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. Certification, license and trauma-system fees $1,738,598. Legislatively approved budget through April 1996, $799,623.
Current legislation. Pending: 1.) A bill to establish a comprehensive emergency medical services system for children program (EMSC) in the Health Division. 2.) Fee changes for ambulance services and trauma system. 3.) Release of information from hospitals for quality assurance. 4.) Housekeeping issues with ORS 682.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is not turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. The Oregon Trauma Registry collects data about the causes of injury, the emergency response and the outcome of all trauma-system patients.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. 1.) Implemented the revised 1994 U.S. DOT EMT-Basic curriculum. 2.) Initial National Registry certification for EMT-Basics.
PENNSYLVANIA
Responsible certification agency. Division of Emergency Medical Services Systems, PA Department of Health. Certification standards include physician input. State law requires an appointed medical director for each regional EMS council.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 7.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $9 million.
Legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Ambulance services submit a copy to regional councils, which have data scanned through an optical scanning system. The data processing has been increasingly converted to computerized electronic data recordings and is submitted through modem. This system transmits data to a central place at the state level and merges it for a statewide database. In 1994, regional councils began feedback trip information to providers, with 1.1 million trip reports filed with the state office.
RHODE ISLAND
Responsible certification agency. Rhode Island Department of Health. This certification group does not include a physician.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 5.
Federal/government funding. $50,000 Federal Preventive Block Grant; $248,754 federal funding for EMS for Children (EMSC) from Maternal Child and Health Bureau; $35,390 federal funding for National Standard Curriculum for Bystander Care Demonstration Program from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $334,965.
Unique funding methods. Division of EMS receives $1.00 from every moving violation fine (approximately $39,661 annually) and limited EMS licensure fees (approximately $78,775 annually).
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. All forms turned in to Rhode Island Department of Health, Division of Emergency Medical Services for computer entry and analysis.
Important changes and developments within the past year. Continued EMS for Children grant from Maternal Child and Health Bureau; National Standard Curriculum for Bystander Care Demonstration Program grant from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Implementation of revised statewide prehospital care protocols and standing orders; 1994 EMT-Basic curriculum currently under review by State Advisory Board.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Responsible certification agency. Division of EMS. Physician is on committee but not on staff. Medical control physicians are required for all services.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 24.
Federal/government funding. $174,825 Block Grant funds (state) for EMS training and injury prevention; $1,002,277 state funds for local (county) EMS equipment purchases; $412,171 state funds for regional organizations; $66,080 U.S. DOT Highway Safety funds and Health & Human Services (EMS-Children $250,000).
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $626,403.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting system. Yes. All data are sent to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Patient care forms are required of all licensed ambulance services. The forms are submitted to the state office by the 15th of the following month. The services separate the forms into emergent and non-emergent groups; the emergent groups are further subdivided per instructions. The information on total number of calls is kept for further use in disbursement of state aid. The state key-enters one in every four months of emergent data for each provider. Several reports are generated based upon response times, injury seen, drug usage, etc. These reports are provided to the services every four months.
Services are provided with a printout of their monthly call summary at the end of the year for verification. This data is then entered into a formula which determines the amount of aid the providers receive.
The state has given EMS providers the opportunity to submit their data electronically. Several services are using a computerized data collection form funded privately or by the state to collect data, which are then submitted to the state office on disks. The state is in the process of upgrading its software to make it more user friendly and to provide services with a QI system.
SOUTH DAKOTA
Responsible certification agency. EMT-Bs are certified by the State Department of Health for a period of 2 years; all ALS personnel are licensed by the State Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners for a 1-year period. Medical directors are required for ALS personnel, but not EMT-As.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 7.
Federal/government funding. NHTSA-- $149,000.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $295,000 plus $250,000 in general funds for matching grants for vehicles and equipment for ambulance service.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. We use a standardized scannable document.
TENNESSEE
Responsible licensure agency. Department of Health EMS Board; this certification group does include a physician. State law requires a medical director for ambulance services.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 6 management/supervisory; 8 regional staff; 4 clerical.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health Block Grant--$145,000; state funds, $914,700.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Turned in to central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Tennessee Division of EMS has a data processing system for prehospital emergency patient care. A scannable data form and an optional keyed data software package are used by EMS providers to submit information.
TEXAS
Responsible certification agency. Texas Department of Health. State law requires a medical director for each ALS emergency medical services system.
Funding. N/A.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 69.
Federal/government funding. Block Grant Funding--$877,588.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $2,239,398.
Current legislation. Passed in 1995: Do Not Resuscitate guidelines for out-of-hospital providers.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. We have implemented a computer reporting system. Ambulance firms are automating their own patient data and electronically transmitting it to the central EMS office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. The above-mentioned approach should result in a statewide data base on which to base reports on statewide trends and norms in the delivery of EMS in general and trauma care in particular.
UTAH
Responsible certification agency. Utah Department of Health, EMS Bureau.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 23, plus 2 contract employees, 6 part time (less than 50%), numerous EMT instructors used as test team.
Unique funding methods. Certification, equipment rental/sale, $105,000; EMS Grants Program, $1,492,000 (14% of criminal surcharge).
Federal/government funding. Prevention Block ($143,000); CSEPP funds, chemical stockpile emergency preparedness program ($147,000).
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. General fund, $955,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. Form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. All ambulance and paramedic services complete state run report forms unless they are on the new automated computerized system. Approximately 75% of runs are now automated and services provide the state EMS Bureau with data on tape or disk in specified format.
We are moving toward total automation. We also collect ED log data from all hospitals and are automating this process.
VERMONT
Responsible certification agency. EMS Division, Vermont Department of Health. Certification group includes a physician. State law requires a medical director for each EMS system. One medical advisor is required for each EMS district.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 7.
Federal/government funding. DOT funding is used to support a variety of system-wide improvement projects. State trauma system grant from HRSA is being used to develop a state-trauma system plan, and EMSC grant for quality care to children.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $191,000.
Current legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes (but not required). This form is not turned in to a central data-gathering system.
VIRGINIA
Responsible certification agency. The Office of EMS, State Health Department. State law requires a medical director for all BLS and ALS agencies.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 31.
Federal/government funding. Total state funds: $10,059,000; $1,500,000--Central Office. All passenger vehicle registration fees include $2.00 for EMS; 25% returns to city/county where vehicle registered; 75% for statewide system includes $3,000,000 yearly in matching grant programs for rescue squads, reimbursement to EMT instructors not otherwise compensated; grants to regional councils for administration, ALS training, personnel recruitment and retention initiatives and medevac grant to state police.
Legislation. EMS-DNR expanded to allow emergency department staff and other health-care providers to honor the prehospital EMS-DNR order. Pediatric patients are now covered by EMS-DNR orders. All EMS-DNR orders can only be authorized by the patient's physician.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. A state form is provided. Requirement to submit information to state EMS office temporarily suspended during evaluation of data-collection efforts.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Currently undergoing review and modification.
Important changes and developments. 1.) EMS recruitment campaigns launched targeting students and allied health professionals. 2.) Handbook and program developed to assist EMS Agency operational medical directors. 3.) Emergency Support Center established to manage medical resources in disasters. Four-level Mass Casualty Incident Management program with standard training and procedures introduced. 4.) In-state subscription service offered for videotapes of EMSAT, the monthly satellite EMS training program. 5.) Elimination of state testing for recertification at all levels.
WASHINGTON
Responsible certification agency. DOH, EMS Section. State law requires a medical director for each county EMS system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 29 full time.
State funds allocated to run state EMS and Trauma office. $2,500,000.
Unique funding methods. Local general funds; one-year special levies; 1- to 6-year excess levies.
Current legislation. Legislation passed to permit First Responder and EMT skill evaluation to be included in continuing medical education (CME) in place of a final skills examination.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes.
Statewide data-gathering system. Not mandatory--currently about 60% of all transports are reported. Information is not currently collected.
WEST VIRGINIA
Responsible certification agency. Office of Emergency Medical Services within the Bureau for Public Health.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 10.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant for paramedic training. Federal Crime Bill for Rape Prevention activities.
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $311,671 plus $1,996,320 state program funds.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is reported through regional offices.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. In the process of developing statewide electronic reporting form that will allow statistical analysis of the data collected.
WISCONSIN
Responsible certification agency. Licensure of all ambulance personnel is the responsibility of the EMS Section, Division of Health, Department of Health & Family Services. Medical director is required for each Advanced Life Support system.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 12.5.
Federal/government funding. Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant supports 8 positions in the EMS office.
Current legislation. None.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. No. Ambulance services may design own form contingent upon approval by the EMS Section, or services may use a form provided by the EMS Section.
WYOMING
Responsible certification agency. State EMS office. This certification group does include physician advisors. State law requires a medical director for each EMS system and EMTs.
Number of permanent state EMS office staff members. 7.
Federal/government funding. DHHS Block Grant--$113,000
State funds allocated to run state EMS office. $246,000.
Statewide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes.
Description of statewide data-gathering system. Computer program renewed in 1993 after a 10-year lapse. Software program is given complimentary to any source wanting to use it rather than sending in hard copy of form.
PUERTO RICO
Responsible certification agency. The Department of Health. This certification group includes more than one physician trained in emergency medicine.
Number of permanent commonwealth EMS office staff members. 1.
Federal/government funding. DOT funds, which are used for training.
Commonwealth funds allocated to run EMS office. $7.5 million.
Unique funding methods. N/A.
Current legislation. Expected passage of Project 1048, which will allow the creation of an EMT examination committee. This new law will standardize all levels of practice on the island.
Commonwealth uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is not turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. We have 25 new Type III ambulances. A new law was approved as of June 1, 1996, requiring EMT-Basics and paramedics to recertify every 2 years.
VIRGIN ISLANDS
Responsible certification agency. Emergency Medical Services. Certification group includes a physician (Territorial Medical Director).
Number of permanent territorial EMS office staff members. 3.
Federal/government funding. DOT Training funds.
Territorial funds allocated to run territorial EMS office. $1,900,000.
Unique funding methods. We operate all territorial ambulance services. We are responsible for territorial planning, development and management of EMTs.
Current legislation. 911 Legislation adopted. Telephone company under PSC directive to provide 911 E.
Territory-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Territory-wide data-gathering system. No. We don't have EDP capacity to tabulate our data.
Important changes and developments within the past year. Survived direct hits from Hurricane Marilyn and Hurricane Bertha.
CANADA
AlbertaResponsible certification agency. Alberta Prehospital Professions Association.
Current legislation. Ambulance Services Act and Health Disciplines Act.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Provided by Alberta Health.
Province-wide data-gathering system. Emergency Health Services, Alberta Health.
British Columbia
Responsible certification agency. British Columbia Ambulance Service; includes a Senior Medical Director. The EMS system is province-wide; legislation empowers the service to appoint physicians as local medical coordinators where needed. Additions or deletions to protocols are implemented as necessary and with the approval of the BCAS. All paramedic education is provided by the Paramedic Academy.
Number of permanent province senior EMS officers. 39.
Federal/government funding. The service is funded 100% by the Government of British Columbia.
Provincial funds allocated to run province EMS office. $116,000,000 FY '96/'97. Call volume was 270,000.
Current legislation. Health Emergency Act and the EMA Regulations.
Province-wide reporting form. Yes. This form is turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of province-wide data gathering system. The report form detailing approximately 150 elements is keypunched. Information is stored on a master file and requests for information are processed at the request of BCAS officers.
Important EMS changes or developments. Addition of the BCAS web site on the Internet. This information page may be reached at the URL http//bcsc02.gov.ca/~rwslemko. The BCAS now enjoys a new $34 million state-of-the-art education facility at the Justice Institute of British Columbia, which houses the Paramedic Academy and other health and public safety academies. A major review of the BCAS was conducted, and the results of this project will set a clear path for the future development of the BCAS and how the system can continue to deliver effective and efficient medical care and transport to customers. We have updated the A.E.D. information management system. The service currently operates 215 AED units, plus an additional 95 units operated by first responder agencies. This program has been in effect since 1987.
Manitoba
Responsible certification agency. Emergency Services, Manitoba Health. Physician is included in a consultant capacity.
Number of permanent staff members in province EMS office. 10.
Provincial/government funding. There are 2 grants provided each year: a per capita grant and a direct grant based on a service provision and cost-funding formula.
Province funds allocated to run province EMS office. $5.4 million (land ambulance); $3.8 million (air ambulance).
Current legislation. An act and regulations cover standards for training, vehicles, equipment, service and personnel.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. The forms are turned in to a central data-gathering office.
Description of data-gathering system. Based on a uniform call-report form that is computer-banked for statistical info recall when required.
Important changes and developments within the past year. Provincial EMA-I training programs were accredited by the Canadian Medical Association.
New Brunswick
Responsible certification agency. Certificates are issued by the Dept. of Health & Community Services. EMT training is delivered by a partnership of St. John Ambulance and New Brunswick Healthcare Assn. throughout the province.
Number of permanent province EMS office staff members. 11.
Federal/government funding. Dept. of Health and Community Services, $10.2 million.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Province has form, which is turned in to a central data-gathering office. Approximately 52,000 call-report forms submitted annually. Call report form data are entered into a central data base from which data can be obtained and manipulated to create numerous reports.
Important changes and developments within the last year. 1.) Ongoing implementation of a province-wide Enhanced 9-1-1 program. 2.) Department of Health & Community Services announced that it would implement a centralized ambulance dispatch centre serving the province under the E 9-1-1 system. 3.) Regional ambulance services coordinating committees as regional planning groups for EMS; six reports of seven submitted to government. 4.) Replacement of 25 St. John Ambulances Services with multisite operation.
Newfoundland
Responsible certification agencies. General Hospital and Department of Health. This certification group is made up of many medical disciplines including an emergency physician. Province law does not require a medical director for each EMS system; however, new standards require the establishment of Medical Control within the next two years.
Number of permanent province EMS office staff members. 4 full time, plus part-time Emergency Medical Advisor.
Federal/government funding. None.
Province funds allocated to run provincial EMS office. $9,000,000.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. For all private and community plus several hospitals.
Description of province-wide data-gathering system. Type of call; origination; diagnostic category; response time. Trauma registry recently established.
Nova Scotia
Responsible certification agency. Emergency Health Services, Department of Health.
Number of permanent province EMS office staff members. 12.
Provincial funds allocated to run province EMS office. $19,000,000.
Current legislation. Bill 96: An Act Respecting Emergency Health Services has been given royal assent but has not yet been proclaimed.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Manual form currently returned and subsequently entered on to the DOH mainframe.
Ontario
Responsible certification agency. EMCA certification is provided by the Ontario Ministry of Health. A medical director of a local base hospital certifies Paramedic 1s and 2s in defibrillation and certifies Paramedic 2s in all other ALS procedures.
Number of permanent province EMS office staff members. Approximately 74.
Federal/government funding. No federal funding.
Provincial funds allocated to run province EMS office. Approximately $4.5 million for EMS office; total provincial program budget is approximately $300 million.
Unique funding methods. All programs are 100% funded by the province with the exception of one municipal service that cost-shares with the Ministry.
Current legislation. Ambulance system operates under the Ambulance Act and its regulations.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting system. Yes.
Description of province-wide data-gathering system. The majority of the Central Ambulance Communications Centres have computer-assisted dispatching. Call information is stored in a central database and reports can be generated. Call information is manually input into the computer database for those CACCs that do not yet have computer-assisted dispatching.
Important EMS changes and developments within the past year. Communications: 1.) Central Ambulance Communications Centres (CACCs) began providing communications services to interested fire departments province-wide in an effort to improve fire and communications reduce duplication. 2.) Computerized assisted call taking and dispatching, called ARIS, was introduced into 3 more CACCs for a total of 17. Patient Care: 1.) Defibrillation programs have continued to expand across the province. Defibrillators are now available to over 87% of Ontario's population with further expansion scheduled for this year. 2.) A symptom relief pilot program was found to be successful and will be expanded province-wide beginning this year. This program enables Paramedic 1s & 2s to administer to patients such medications as eponephrine, nitroglycerin, glucagon/glucose, ventolin and ASA, when needed. 3.) A self administration of medications program was also piloted and found to be successful. It too will be expanded province wide beginning this year. This program enables Paramedics 1s & 2s to assist patients in taking their own medications in emergency situations. Research & Development: Completed Year #2 of a 5-year study into the effect of various advanced life support procedures on increasing patient survival and reducing morbidity. Quality Assurance: 1.) Operational reviews of ambulance services. An operational review is a peer-oriented review program for ambulance services that combines many characteristics of accreditation with those of an inspection and a compliance review. Approximately 95 ambulance services have been reviewed since inception of the program in 1993, with 35 completed in the past year. 2.) Operational reviews of CACCs & base hospital. Operational review programs for CACCs and base hospitals introduced, and 2 CACCs and 2 base hospitals have been reviewed.
Prince Edward Island
Responsible certification agency. Holland College, 140 Weymouth St., Charlottetown, P.E.I. C1A 4Z1.
Number of permanent province EMS office staff members. Three part-time staff.
Federal/government funding. No designated federal funding is received for ambulance services.
Province funds allocated to run province EMS office. $1,040,900.
Unique funding methods. The province negotiates funding levels for the ambulance subsidization program with the PEI Ambulance Operators and a contract is signed. There is a user fee charge of $100 per call.
Current legislation. None.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. This form is forwarded to a central data-gathering office.
Description of province-wide data-gathering system. The Ambulance Operators Assistance Program is funded by the provincial government through the Health and Community Services Agency. Pertinent data are submitted on ambulance dispatch forms and are used for the purpose of statistics and analysis.
Quebec
Responsible certification agency. The CEGEPs have sole responsibility for certifying ambulance attendants; however, a group of physicians does advise our Branch on this subject.
Federal/government funding. No direct participation.
Unique funding methods. The cost of the program is supported by the province.
Province-wide uniform ambulance reporting form. Yes. It is turned in to regional data-gathering offices.
Description of province-wide data-gathering system. Using the same software material, each regional board is able to handle by computer all main information that can be found on each transport form. Data are then used by the boards and by the ministry for planning and control activities.
Saskatchewan
Licensure/Registration. All EMTs, Emergency Medical Responders and First Responders are registered for a 2-year term with Emergency Medical Services, Saskatchewan Health. Registration is maintained through involvement in a mandatory didactic and practical continuing education program. Hospital practicums and certification in ACLS and BTLS required for Advanced Life Support personnel.
