PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: To create an advanced life support (ALS)/intermediate life support (ILS) ongoing training and evaluation program (OTEP) in rule, similar to those rules already established at the basic life support level. The proposal would require amending WAC 246-976-161 and 246-976-171.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.71.205 Emergency medical service personnel -- Certification.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Currently, RCW 18.73.081 allows first responders and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to recertify using one of two methods: (1) The OTEP method which replaces the written exam with a requirement for appropriate medical program director-approved evaluations of individual knowledge and skills; or (2) the traditional method of completing a required number of continuing medical education (CME) hours and taking a recertification exam. At present 95% of certified first responders and EMTs recertify via OTEP. This proposal would create fairness in recertification and improve the quality of ILS and ALS personnel certified by the Department of Health. It would provide the same opportunity to those recertifying at the ILS and ALS levels, who currently do not have an option and must recertify in only the traditional method (completing a required number of CME hours and taking the recertification exam).
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: Statutory and other EMS and trauma care committees and interested parties will be asked to participate in the drafting of the proposed rule changes through public meetings and public workshops. Appropriate draft rules and meeting dates will be either mailed or e-mailed to them. Among the external parties already interested in the proposal that will be invited to participate include: The EMS and trauma medical program directors, the local and regional EMS and trauma care councils, certified EMS personnel, licensed EMS agencies, the Washington State Council of Firefighters, the Washington State Fire Chiefs Association, and the Washington Ambulance Association.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Public meetings and public workshops will be held throughout the state and the final draft of the proposed WAC amended language will be sent out to all affected and interested parties before the formal public hearing is held.
Anyone with questions or concerns regarding the proposal to adopt rules for ALS/ILS OTEP should contact Jack Cvitanovic, Manager, Licensing and Certification Section, Office of Emergency Medical and Trauma Prevention at P.O. Box 47853, Olympia, WA 98504-7853, e-mail jack.cvitanovic@doh.wa.gov, phone (360) 705-6712, or fax (360) 705-6706.
Mary C. Selecky
Secretary