SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1543

BYRepresentatives Cantwell, Brooks, Day, Vekich, D. Sommers, Braddock, Bristow, Lux, P. King, Sprenkle, Meyers and Lewis

Eliminating the requirement of a practical examination for recertification of emergency medical technicians if other requirements are met.

House Committe on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 17, 1988; February 18, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Deccio, Chairman; Kreidler, Niemi, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:Scott Plack (786-7409)

                  February 19, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & CORRECTIONS, FEBRUARY 18, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has the authority to license emergency medical services and vehicles and certify Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and First Responders.  In order to be certified, EMTs and First Responders must take a written and practical examination.  EMTs and First Responders may apply for re-certification every three years upon successful passage of another written and practical examination.  At least 30 hours of continuing education are required for recertification.

SUMMARY:

Certified Emergency Medical Technicians and First Responders are no longer required to take the practical examination for recertification if continuing education requirements have been met, and if they have responded to at least 12 emergency incidences a year since last certification.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

Certified emergency medical technicians and first responders are no longer required to take the practical examination for recertification but must complete a program of ongoing training and evaluation approved in rule by the county medical program director and the secretary of DSHS.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 19, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Rex Lindquest, Washington State Firefighters (for); John Sinclair, Washington State Firefighters (for); Paul Berlin, Tacoma Community College (for); Thomas Haugstad (for); William Sieg, Snohomish County EMS (for); Howard Farley, DSHS (for); John Murphy, Washington State Association of Fire Chiefs (for); Byron Byrne, Skagit County EMS (for); Dr. Lothar Pinkers, WSMA (for)