FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 237

                                  C 214 L 87

BYHouse Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives Cantwell, Brooks, Braddock, Ballard, Scott, P. King, Kremen and Unsoeld; by request of Department of Social and Health Services)

Changing provisions relating to emergency medical services.

House Committe on Health Care

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Since 1973, the state has defined and controlled the development and implementation of emergency medical services (EMS).  The law has undergone only minor revisions in the last 13 years.  During this period, the EMS program has expanded in definition and complexity, both at the state and federal level.  The Department of Social and Health Services has proposed revisions to reflect the existing EMS programs in the state.

SUMMARY:

The respective roles and responsibilities of the local medicine program director, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), the local emergency medical services (EMS) council and the regional emergency medical services council are clarified.

The training requirements for emergency medical technicians and advanced first aid responders are deleted to allow for easier compliance with national standards.  Greater flexibility for considering variances is permitted provided that public health is not affected.

The periodic ambulance inspection requirement is replaced with a self-inspection program, with on-site inspection as necessary.

Medical protocols between emergency medical services staff and physicians are clarified.

Additional changes are made to reflect existing emergency medical services concepts.

The existing immunity from liability provided to emergency medical services staff is extended to poison center personnel.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 88   1

      Senate    49     0(Senate amended)

      House 98   0(House concurred)

EFFECTIVE:July 26, 1987