Introduction to EMS

Learn About EMS, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians - an overview of emergency medical services for the public and those considering EMS careers.

Emergency Medical Services and Systems

EMS Agenda for the Future, NHTSA - the blueprint that provides the foundation for the current U.S. EMS system.
EMS Organizations - links to state, national and online EMS organizations.
Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics - a profile of EMS professions in the U.S. Dept. of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Medical, Legal and Ethical Issues

"Beware Patient Refusals," JEMS - a must-read for understanding the complexities of refusals and liability.
EMS and the Law, AAOS - a handbook that discusses HIPAA, patient and provider rights, documentation, legal processes and procedures, good samaritan laws, negligence, and more.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA), formerly COBRA - site contains resources compiled by the American Academy of Emergency Medicine.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)
Legal Aspects of Prehospital Care (PPT) - a very nice PowerPoint presentation by Chris Black, Temple College.

Legal Information for Idaho EMS Providers - links to Idaho code, statutes, and protocols.

"Patient Refusal: What to do when medical treatment and transport are rejected," JEMS
Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act, HIV/AIDS Bureau of the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services

Roles and Responsibilities of the EMT

EMT Code of Ethics - reprinted with permission of and adopted by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.

Job Description: EMT-Basic - reprinted with permission of the NREMT.

Certification and licensure

Legal Opinion - Certification v. Licensure - the NREMT's defining legal perspective regarding the difference between certification and licensure.

National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians - the national certifying body for EMTs.

Well-Being of the EMT

Occupational Health Guidelines, CDC's National Center for Infectious Diseases

Staying Healthy in EMS - includes driving and scene safety, injury prevention and wellness, health and fitness, and links to CISM organizations.

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Updated 08.27.06