Arkansas Ambulance Association News

Baptist Health ER Wall Time Update

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:14:07 GMT

Baptist Health ER Wall Time Update

In an effort to reduce ambulance “ER Wall Time,” Baptist Health is requesting that EMS services notify the Baptist Health Command Center at (501) 202-1000 when an ambulance departs a referring hospital inbound to the Emergency Department at the following locations:

Baptist Health Little Rock
Baptist Health North Little Rock
Baptist Health Conway
Baptist Health Fort Smith

When calling, please be ready to provide the following information:

Patient name and DOB
Referring hospital
Receiving hospital
Approximate ETA to the receiving hospital

This process will allow the Emergency Departments at Baptist hospitals the ability to receive a live notification of an inbound unit’s status along with an ongoing countdown timer. This process will allow them to prioritize bed placement and address capacity issues. Hopefully, this will greatly reduce EMS wall time. Once en route, Baptist asks that inbound crews activate Pulsara to open a case. If significant delays occur en route, please communicate updated ETAs to the Command Center so they can plan accordingly. Baptist also asks that the incoming crew call in a report to the ED approximately 15–20 minutes prior to arrival. Crews may utilize Pulsara, phone, or radio for this.

ArAA Policy Updates & 2026 Prep

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:03:21 GMT

Learn more about from the ArAA about the association's policy updates and what to look forward to in 2026!

ArAA Policy Updates & 2026 Prep Webinar

SHARE - Arkansas' Statewide Health Information Exchange

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:54:55 GMT

SHARE is Arkansas statewide health information exchange. SHARE provides secure, real-time access to patient health data across care settings designed to support care in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments and supports both clinical decision-making and care coordination.

SHARE Presentation

VANTOS 2026 UPDATES

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:26:19 GMT

2025-11-19 2026 Vantos PR Presentation.pdf

Vantos Network Operations in Arkansas (Vantos Health Network) manages provider credentialing, contracting, and network adequacy for health plans, impacting providers by determining which plans they participate in, how they are reimbursed, and patient access to services.

EMS1 on MEDPAC's Impact on Ambulance Services

Wed, 14 May 2025 18:47:42 GMT

EMS1 on MEDPAC's Impact on Ambulance Services

In December 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the first report from the Ground Ambulance Data Collection System (GADCS), highlighting that the costs of providing ambulance services—across public, private, and nonprofit providers—often exceed current Medicare reimbursement rates. The report was notable for including a broad range of provider types, unlike earlier studies by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which excluded certain providers due to concerns about data reliability.

In March 2025, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) reviewed the GADCS report. During this process, MedPAC excluded data from providers that share operational costs with other services (like fire departments or hospitals) and those with costs significantly higher than the average. This resulted in the removal of over half of the services included in the original dataset.

The article suggests that EMS agencies may need to focus on internal strategies—such as adopting telehealth, improving transfer protocols, and optimizing deployment—to manage costs and sustain operations, regardless of changes to Medicare payments.

Read More Here

ARAA on Understanding Arkansas Act 1021 - ARRIVES Act

Wed, 14 May 2025 18:46:35 GMT

ARRIVES Act

Arkansas Act 1021, known as the ARRIVES Act (Arkansas Revenue Investment in Vital EMS Systems), represents a crucial first step toward strengthening our state’s EMS infrastructure.

This newly enacted framework legislation lays the groundwork for assessing the needs of ambulance providers and establishing a fair and strategic method for distributing funds—particularly in underserved areas. These areas, often described as “healthcare deserts,” rely heavily on EMS to bridge the gap in access to essential medical services.

While the ARRIVES Act doesn’t allocate funding just yet, it sets the mechanism for how future resources can be distributed, ensuring that regions with the greatest service gaps can receive proportionate support.

However, this is just the beginning. The EMS industry is facing an unprecedented convergence of challenges:

- A shrinking and overburdened workforce

- Skyrocketing operational costs

- Inadequate reimbursement from public and private payers

- Increasing reliance on EMS as frontline healthcare in areas lacking clinics or physicians

The Arkansas Ambulance Association is committed to pushing forward. While no general funds have been appropriated to fund ARRIVES yet, the Association will continue to advocate for dedicated investment in EMS to ensure life-saving services remain accessible to every Arkansan—urban or rural.

AHA: Cardiac Emergency Response Plans to be in enacted in Arkansas Public Schools

Wed, 14 May 2025 18:44:13 GMT

During the week of April 25, 2025, Governor Sanders signed a new law requiring all public schools in Arkansas to implement a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP), aiming to improve emergency preparedness and save lives. This achievement was made possible by dedicated advocates who shared their stories, raised awareness, and pushed for change. Many of them were present at the bill signing to celebrate the passage of Act 352, a testament to the power of community-driven advocacy.

See Post Here

Arkansas joins the EMS Compact

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:47:06 GMT

Arkansas has become the 25th state to join the United States EMS Compact. This will enable EMS clinicians to deliver care across state lines.

The Recognition of EMS Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact (REPLICA) enables Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to practice across state lines. Over 20 states have already enacted this compact. It grants licensed EMS professionals from one member state the Privilege to Practice in other member states, supporting efficient and flexible EMS response.

To join the EMS Compact, states must enact uniform model legislation without making substantive changes.

Measles Guidelines for EMS

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:28:20 GMT

The Arkansas Department of Health issued a press release on April 10, 2025 confirming an active measles case in Arkansas for the first time since 2018.

The Department of Health has provided some guidelines for all EMS personnel that provide clinical guidance for responders. See guidelines here: PPE-Transport Measles Guidance for EMS 4-11-25 .pdf

Adopted March 1, 2025: Joint Position Statement on Criminal Liability for Alleged Deviations from Clinical Standards of Care in Emergency Medical Services

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:22:57 GMT

Adopted March 1, 2025: Joint Position Statement on Criminal Liability for Alleged Deviations from Clinical Standards of Care in Emergency Medical Services

This Joint Position Statement from several National EMS Organizations outlines guidelines for determining when criminal liability should apply to EMS clinicians for alleged deviations from clinical standards of care. It stresses that:

EMS clinicians should be held accountable within a just culture, which emphasizes organizational systems that contribute to errors.

Criminal liability for medical errors should be carefully considered, as it can deter EMS professionals from reporting errors, potentially worsening patient safety.

The statement proposes a four-part inquiry to evaluate whether criminal charges are appropriate:

Was the action within the EMS clinician's duties?
Did the action involve a deviation from clinical standards?
Was it intentional or grossly negligent?
Will criminal liability serve justice?

The statement also highlights concerns about the impact of criminal liability on EMS recruitment and retention, especially during a workforce crisis, and advocates for non-criminal forms of accountability such as civil or administrative actions for medical errors.

Joint-position-statement-on-.pdf

MedPac Meeting RECAP (3/6/25): Ground Ambulance Data

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:22:05 GMT

MedPac Meeting RECAP (3/6/25): Ground Ambulance Data

The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee (MedPAC) held the first of several Commission discussions related to the statutorily mandated report to review ground ambulance payment policy in light of the Ground Ambulance Data Collection System on March 6, 2025. In addition to the Ground Ambulance Payment Report, the agenda covered physician fee schedules updates, updates on reduction in cost-sharing for critical access hospital outpatient services, an overview of Medicare insurance agents, overview on Medigap, overview on home health care in Medicare Advantage, and institutional special needs plans.

The Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2018 required CMS to collect data on ground ambulance services through the Ground Ambulance Data Collection System (GADCS). MedPAC must analyze this data to assess Medicare payment adequacy and geographic cost variations, with a report due by June 15, 2026. Commissioners will review the data and guide the workplan. The American Ambulance Association noted the analysis will include cost data stratification by service type and level, as well as potential staffing differences. It will also examine data from a range of organizations, challenges for rural and super-rural providers, and comparisons of rural definitions. Additional focus areas include hospital vs. on-scene treatment, ownership data, treatment in place, payment impacts on response and transport decisions, the effect of “wall time” on costs, and differences between “loaded” and “unloaded” miles.

MedPac Mandated Report: Payment for Ground Ambulance Services

Stay tuned for more information and updates on upcoming MedPac meetings!

EMS Protocols: STEMI Triage & Treatment Efficiency

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:18:13 GMT

The International Journal of Emergency Medicine Continuous published an article on a study that evaluates the impact of the American Heart Association's Mission Lifeline initiative on STEMI care in Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR). By analyzing EMS data from 2015 to 2023, researchers found that Mission Lifeline protocols, such as prehospital 12-lead ECGs and hospital pre-activation, significantly improved EMS-to-balloon (E2B) times and STEMI triage accuracy. The percentage of patients meeting the 90-minute E2B time improved from 74% in 2015 to 84% in 2019, while under-triage rates dropped below 1% after 2020. These findings highlight the effectiveness of standardized, protocol-driven EMS interventions in optimizing STEMI care and improving patient outcomes.

EmergencyInsights - Infectious Disease Preparednes

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 19:40:11 GMT

EmergencyInsights - Infectious Disease Preparedness

EMS providers face significant risks from infectious diseases while responding to emergencies. Common threats include respiratory viruses, tuberculosis, hepatitis, HIV, meningitis, MRSA, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Effective infection control measures—such as proper PPE use, hand hygiene, sharps safety, equipment decontamination, vaccination, and exposure management—are crucial for reducing transmission. EMS agencies must ensure ongoing training, stockpile essential supplies, and implement outbreak response protocols. By staying informed and following best practices, EMS professionals can protect themselves, their patients, and the public while delivering high-quality care.

Learn More Here

JEMS: Safeguarding EMS Clinician Data

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 19:37:19 GMT

JEMS: Safe guarding EMS Clinician Data

The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice has adopted Position Paper 2025-01 to strengthen data security protections for EMS clinicians. Amid rising cyber threats, EMS personnel face increased risks of identity theft and data breaches due to inconsistent licensure data safeguards. The Commission’s initiative aims to balance credential transparency with security by limiting public access to sensitive information, restricting bulk data disclosures, and implementing stricter verification processes. Recognizing EMS data protection as a national security issue, the Commission urges all states to adopt these standards, ensuring EMS professionals receive the same protections as other frontline responders.

https://www.jems.com/ems-management/safeguarding-ems-clinician-data-a-critical-step-in-protecting-the-workforce/

JEMS: EMS Staffing White Paper Released by NAEMT

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:07:53 GMT

JEMS: EMS Staffing White Paper Released by NAEMT

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) play a critical role in saving lives and protecting communities. While traditional models focus on rapid response and ALS staffing, research shows that most EMS calls don’t require lifesaving interventions. This presents an opportunity to optimize resources while continuing to deliver high-quality care.

Key Challenges Faced by EMS:

Workforce Shortages: Despite an increase in certified EMTs and paramedics, EMS agencies struggle to fill field positions due to low wages, burnout, and competition from other healthcare sectors.
Financial Strain: EMS agencies often operate under financial pressure, with reimbursement rates falling short of covering operational costs, leading to service cuts and staff reductions.
Unrealistic Expectations: While fast response times are important in critical cases, studies show that for most calls, patient outcomes are not impacted by rapid arrival times, allowing for smarter deployment strategies.

Solutions to Empower EMS:

Tiered Response Models: Implementing a combination of ALS and BLS responses ensures critical patients receive advanced care while maintaining system efficiency.
Evidence-Based Response Times: Aligning response time goals with clinical needs prioritizes patient outcomes and reduces unnecessary strain on EMS resources.
Innovative Dispatch Strategies: Utilizing triage systems, telemedicine, and non-ambulance personnel for low-acuity calls ensures ambulances remain available for life-threatening emergencies.

Conclusion:
EMS providers are the backbone of community health and safety. By embracing data-driven strategies and flexible response models, we can strengthen EMS systems, support frontline providers, and ensure high-quality care for every patient. Investing in EMS means investing in safer, healthier communities.

EMS Staffing White Paper Released by NAEMT - JEMS: EMS, Emergency Medical Services - Training, Paramedic, EMT News

An International Community Paramedic Career Structure: A Synthesis of the Literature, Regulatory Frameworks, and Community Paramedicine Expert Advice

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:07:16 GMT

The document, An International Community Paramedic Career Structure: A Synthesis of the Literature, Regulatory Frameworks, and Community Paramedicine Expert Advice, investigates the emergence and structuring of community paramedicine (CP) as an essential extension of emergency medical services (EMS). This review synthesizes findings from global research, regulatory standards, and expert consultations to establish a career framework for community paramedics.

Key insights include:

Core Competencies: Identifies the unique skillsets required for community paramedics, blending emergency response capabilities with public health and primary care knowledge to address underserved and remote populations.
Training and Education: Highlights the need for specialized and standardized educational pathways that align with international best practices, ensuring community paramedics are adequately prepared for expanded roles.
Integration with Healthcare Systems: Stresses the importance of community paramedicine being recognized as an integral part of broader health systems to enhance access to care and reduce strain on emergency departments and hospitals.
Regulatory Support: Advocates for uniformity in certification and licensure processes to ensure career mobility and adherence to a standard scope of practice across jurisdictions.
Sustainability: Emphasizes the role of structured career progression, ongoing professional development, and supportive workplace policies in sustaining a skilled CP workforce.

This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the effectiveness, accessibility, and continuity of community-based care, positioning community paramedic programs as a vital solution to contemporary healthcare challenges.

Assessment of The ImPACTS Project

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 23:01:51 GMT

Assessment of The ImPACTS Project

An article recently published in the Pediatric Emergency Care journal discusses how the ImPACTS program (Improving Acute Care Through Simulation) fosters partnerships between pediatric specialty centers (hubs) and general emergency departments (spokes) to enhance pediatric care through simulation-based training. The study highlighted key success factors, including strong institutional support, leadership buy-in, effective communication, and the role of Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinators (PECCs). Barriers like resource logistics and lack of engagement were mitigated through collaboration. Outcomes included improved pediatric readiness, stronger clinical education, and enhanced institutional partnerships.

HHS Strategic Plan for Use of AI Release

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 14:26:32 GMT

HHS Strategic Plan for Use of AI Release

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its AI Strategic Plan on January 10, 2025, detailing a roadmap to responsibly implement artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, human services, and public health. The Plan focuses on improving safety, accessibility, equity, and health outcomes through AI while mitigating risks.

Key Goals of the Plan:

Catalyzing AI Innovation: Accelerating breakthroughs to enhance people's health and well-being.
Promoting Responsible AI Use: Ensuring ethical and safe adoption of AI to minimize potential harm.
Democratizing AI Access: Facilitating equitable availability of AI technologies for all.
Cultivating AI-Ready Workforce: Equipping staff with skills and resources to effectively integrate AI.

The Plan builds on existing HHS initiatives and includes regular updates, risk assessments, and stakeholder engagement to adapt to the rapidly evolving AI landscape. It aims to position HHS as a global leader in advancing AI responsibly, protecting patient safety, and promoting equity in its deployment across healthcare systems.

McKinsey & Company: What to expect in US healthcare in 2025 and beyond

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 14:13:00 GMT

McKinsey & Company: What to expect in US healthcare in 2025

The McKinsey & Company article "What to expect in US healthcare in 2025 and beyond" highlights key trends anticipated to shape the healthcare landscape in 2025:

Patient Affordability and Cost Containment: Efforts to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and enhance price transparency are expected to continue, influenced by legislative measures like the Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to lower Medicare prescription costs.
Shift Toward Non-Acute Care Delivery: There's a projected movement from traditional hospital settings to non-acute care environments, including increased care provided at home. This transition is facilitated by advancements in healthcare technology and a focus on patient convenience.
Growth in Healthcare Technology and Specialty Services: Segments such as healthcare software, data analytics, and specialty pharmacy services are anticipated to experience significant growth, reflecting the industry's emphasis on digital transformation and personalized care.

The anticipated changes in the U.S. healthcare system could expand the responsibilities in home-based care, increase reliance on technology, and promote a continued focus on delivering cost-effective, high-quality services.

EMS Now: Trends to Watch in 2025

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:42:43 GMT

EMS Now: Trends to Watch in 2025

The article "EMS Trends to Watch in 2025" from EMSNOW explores key challenges and trends within the EMS industry for 2025, building upon the difficulties faced in 2024. Key points include:

Demand Uncertainty: EMS companies must carefully navigate market predictions, particularly in sectors like medical, automotive, and defense, as growth is difficult to forecast.
Inventory Visibility: Following pandemic-driven disruptions, EMS companies are struggling with high levels of inventory and need better forecasting data to manage component acquisitions effectively.
Workforce Challenges: The rise in labor costs in low-cost regions is making workforce recruitment and retention difficult, especially with lower demand leading to fewer hours.
Automation: More investment is being made in automating repetitive tasks in the manufacturing process, though high-mix, low-volume manufacturing continues to face challenges.
Reshoring/Regionalization: The industry anticipates a continued shift toward localizing manufacturing due to geopolitical issues, with countries aiming for the "China Plus One" strategy.
Regional Manufacturing Ecosystem: Rebuilding the regional electronics supply chain, including PCBs, will be crucial for future stability and security in the industry.
Macroeconomic Factors: Global tensions and economic shifts may impact the EMS market, with expected growth slowing until late 2025.

While 2025 may not be as challenging as 2024, the industry will need to adjust to these trends for sustained growth.

Read Full Article Here

JEMS: 2024 EMS Reflection

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:41:36 GMT

JEMS: 2024 EMS Reflection

In the article "2024 EMS Reflection: A Year of Continued Ups and Downs," Edward 'Ted' Lee, Ed.D, NRP, provides an overview of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) landscape in 2024. He notes significant advancements in technology and the expansion of mobile integrated health programs, which have enhanced patient care and operational efficiency. However, Lee also highlights ongoing challenges, particularly staffing shortages and financial constraints, which continue to impact EMS operations. He emphasizes the need for sustained support and innovation to address these issues and improve EMS services.

Access Full Article Here

National Rural Health Association: 2024 Year-End Health Package Update

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:40:48 GMT

National Rural Health Association: 2024 Year-End Health Package Update

The National Rural Health Association provided a 2024 Year-End Health Package Update as summarized below.

The House Appropriations Committee has released the proposed Continuing Resolution (C.R.) for funding the federal government through March 14, 2025. The path forward for passage remains uncertain due to opposition within the House. Key health provisions in the C.R. include:

Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities: Extended for two years, ensuring continued access for beneficiaries.
Rural Healthcare Funding:Medicare payment adjustments for rural hospitals, including a one-year extension for low-volume and Medicare-dependent hospitals.
Rural ambulance services will receive two years of extended payment support.
Rural physician practices will benefit from an extended Medicare Geographic Practice Cost Index.
Community Health Centers funding extended for two years, with allocations for FY 2025 and FY 2026.
Seniors and Home-based Care: The C.R. includes funding for Medicare’s Acute Hospital Care at Home program for five years, supporting home care models.
Extension of Funding for various programs such as the National Health Service Corps and Medicaid DSH relief.
Payment Boosts: A 2.5% increase to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for one year, which helps mitigate cuts from the 2025 Physician Fee Schedule rule.

In addition to healthcare provisions, the package includes measures for cost-offsetting, including a six-month extension of Medicare sequestration and reforms to pharmacy benefit managers.

The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) is advocating for:

A longer-term extension (3-5 years) of rural hospital and ambulance payment supports.
Preserving telehealth flexibilities.
Supporting the addition of Medicare Advantage prior authorization reform to the package.
Delaying Medicare sequestration extensions.

NRHA calls for focused advocacy to maintain these provisions and ensure continued support for rural healthcare.

EMS1 Reviews the Actions Taken by the 118th Congress & President Biden

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:39:23 GMT

EMS1 Reviews the Actions Taken by the 118th Congress & President Biden

The article "Inside Politics: Reviewing the Actions Taken by the 118th Congress and President Biden" provides an overview of the legislative and executive actions during the 118th Congress under President Biden.

The article highlights key legislative efforts that impact fire and EMS, such as the reauthorization of firefighter assistance programs and funding for safety equipment. Although wildfire-related bills didn't pass, many of the provisions focus on funding initiatives designed to improve public safety, which directly affects EMS services, especially in rural areas and during large-scale emergency events. These measures aim to enhance EMS operations by ensuring better resources and funding, especially during disasters.

Some of the bills passed include the following:

The Fire Grants and Safety Act of 2023, which reauthorizes firefighter assistance programs.
Medicare payment extensions for rural ambulance services, extending support for EMS operations in underserved areas.
Funding for public safety relief, aimed at supporting EMS operations and providing necessary resources during emergencies.

Read Full Article Here

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:37:34 GMT

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, awarded $38 million to EMS and 911 systems working on highway safety. These funds will support efforts to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. Key recipients include various cities and organizations, such as Alabaster, Alabama, and Batesville, Arkansas. The SS4A grants support both planning and demonstration projects, as well as implementation of strategies to improve safety and enhance prehospital care. EMS agencies are encouraged to apply for future funding opportunities.

Read Full Article Here

Until 12/31 - Campaign to Extend Medicare Add-Ons

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 23:27:01 GMT

The campaign encourages EMS professionals to contact Congress in support of extending Medicare add-on payments for ambulance services, which are set to expire on December 31, 2024. The House and Senate bills (H.R. 1666 and S. 1673) seek to extend these payments and, in the Senate version, propose increased payment rates. The extension is crucial to prevent financial strain on EMS agencies, ensuring continued access to ambulance services. For more details and to take action, visit the campaign page.

TAKE ACTION HERE: American Ambulance Association | Ask Congress to Extend the Ambulance Medicare Add-Ons!

EMS1 on the Recently Introduced Medicare No-Transport EMS Reimbursement Bill

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 23:26:25 GMT

EMS1 on the Recently Introduced Medicare No-Transport EMS Reimbursement Bill

The EMS1 article discusses the introduction of the Medicare No-Transport EMS Reimbursement Bill in December 2024. This legislation, introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), aims to allow Medicare to reimburse EMS services even when patients are not transported to a hospital.

Currently, EMS providers may face financial challenges when they treat patients on-site without transporting them, as Medicare does not reimburse for non-transport care. This bill seeks to address this issue by ensuring that EMS agencies can receive reimbursement for treating patients at the scene, a critical measure to support EMS agencies, especially in rural areas.

The bill is seen as a step toward improving EMS reimbursement policies, offering financial stability to providers and encouraging the growth of alternative care models, which can reduce unnecessary hospital visits and alleviate strain on emergency departments.

UPDATE: OSHA Emergency Response Rulemaking

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 23:25:20 GMT

UPDATE: OSHA Emergency Response Rulemaking

OSHA provided an update on the Emergency Response Rulemaking Process on December 6, 2024. Per the update, the public hearing transcripts are in the process of being finalized and will be uploaded to Regulations.gov in the upcoming weeks. The docket remains open for submissions of post-hearing comments at Regulations.gov; comments are encouraged and welcomed by OSHA.

Recap on the rule:

The proposed rule by OSHA released this year with the intention of being finalized in 2025 is part of an effort to update the Emergency Response Standard and aims to improve safety protections for emergency responders, including EMS personnel, firefighters, and search and rescue teams. This rule would revise the existing Fire Brigades Standard (29 C.F.R. 1910.156) to extend its coverage to additional groups of emergency responders, such as those in EMS and technical rescue roles.

More information on this proposed rule: Emergency Response Rulemaking | OSHA.gov | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

VA Delays Rule Change to 2029 that would have Impacted Reimbursement of Ambulance Services

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 23:23:26 GMT

VA Delays Rule Change to 2029

On December 9, 2024, the Department of Veterans Affairs delayed a rule change that would have impacted the reimbursement of ambulance services to 2029: particularly air ambulance providers. The rule would have reduced reimbursements for specialty transportation services to lower Medicare rates opposed to reimbursing providers at the existing rates for veterans which are more reflective of the costs incurred by EMS providers. This delay allows veterans to continue accessing necessary emergency transportation services without disruption.

Read more here: 24-1104.OPINION.12-9-2024_2432337.pdf

Updates to Arkansas's Rules for Emergency Medical Services

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 21:27:00 GMT

EMS_FINAL_RULE_07242020r.pdf

On October 28, 2024, updates were made to Arkansas’s Rules for Emergency Medical Services under the authority of Act 435 of 1975. Key changes include those related to EMS operations, licensing, and mutual aid. Here are some of the highlights:

• Licensing Requirements

Ambulance services must ensure all fees and documentation are submitted to Arkansas DOH prior to licenses being issued or renewed. Licenses are contingent on meeting operational standards, personnel requirements, and equipment requirements.

• Patient Transport

Patients with life-threatening conditions may request transport to facilities beyond the nearest medical center for specialized care.

• Communications

Changes in efforts to enhance mutual aid responses during mass casualty incidents, including mandatory reporting procedures, radio frequencies, and coordination with the ECC and local responders have been made.

• Documentation & Reporting

Ambulance services are required to notify receiving facilities in advance and provide patient encounter forms within 24 hours of patient transfer.

• Specialized Care & Air Ambulance Services

Standards for air ambulance services have been clarified noting personnel and equipment requirements along with medical oversight for non-specialty care air transport.

Final 2024 National EMS Advisory Council Meeting Recap

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:49:14 GMT

The recent November 2024 meeting of the National EMS Advisory Council (NEMSAC) held November 6-7 in Washington, D.C. highlighted updates and discussions on critical topics in EMS. The meeting provided insights into broader EMS trends, such as pandemic response, workforce challenges, and evolving patient care models. Key topics included:

Adaptability in EMS practices
Equitable patient care
Integration of Advanced Technology
Behavioral health in EMS
Federal initiatives such as those from the NHTSA
Emerging challenges

Subcommittee Report Summaries

OSHA Emergency Response Rulemaking

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:47:26 GMT

OSHA Emergency Response Rulemaking

Highlights of the proposed rule include:

Expanded Coverage to include EMS, search, and rescue functions
Alignment with current safety and operations standards such as those in the National Fire Protection Association
Enhanced health and safety measures against wildfire and hazardous material exposures
Volunteer fire department exemptions and extension of implementation timelines

OSHA Proposed Rule Insights

EMS1 Projects Impact of Trump Presidency on EMS

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:45:55 GMT

"How will Trump’s campaign promises impact EMS funding, call volume and service quality?"

On November 6, Greg Friese, MS, NRP, penned an article for EMS1 specific to Trump policies potential impact on EMS. Friese writes, "Based on Trump’s previous term and the campaign trail promises from Trump and his surrogates, it is worth considering what a second Trump presidency means for EMS. The centerpieces of Trump’s campaign were tariffs, immigration, taxes and crime, issues that touch every aspect of daily life, in and out of the workplace."

Full Article Here

DBH Management Legislative Update!

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:11:00 GMT

2025 Session Important Dates.pdf

Click the link above to learn more.

Full Circle Moment - Paramedics Save Their Teacher!

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:09:22 GMT

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service paramedics in Rochester, Minnesota responded to a patient experiencing a heart attack only to discover their former teacher in need.

Read & watch more about this story.

Qualitative Research & Paramedics' Perspectives on COVID-19

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:07:28 GMT

https://www.podbean.com/ep/pb-xnhty-172fe5e

Watch the full podcast by clicking on the link above.

"Highlighting the significance of qualitative research, Dr. Barr remarks, 'Numbers work well for testing theories, but when it comes to generating new ones, the hard work of interviews, coding and theming is essential.'"

Learn more about how Professor Bram Buffee, PhD, EMT-P & Dr. Nigel Barr, PhD, RN, RP discuss the impact of COVID-19 and the importance of capturing qualitative research for greater insights on healthcare practices and challenges: EMS Research Podcast: Paramedic Perspectives on COVID Through Qualitative Research - JEMS: EMS, Emergency Medical Services - Training, Paramedic, EMT News.

Marburg Virus Disease: New EMS Guidelines: Revised October 4, 2024

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:06:03 GMT

Marburg Virus Disease: New EMS Guidelines: Revised October 4, 2024

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to inform clinicians and health departments about the Republic of Rwanda’s first confirmed outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) with 36 laboratory confirmed cases and 11 deaths reported as of October 2, 2024, including at least 19 cases in healthcare workers.

CDC Health Alert Network Communications

Background

Marburg Virus Disease is a rare but highly fatal viral hemorrhagic fever caused by infection with either Marburg virus or Ravn virus. Both Marburg virus and Ravn virus are within the family which also includes Ebola viruses. A person infected with the Marburg virus is not contagious before symptoms appear. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal symptoms, or unexplained bleeding. The virus is spread through direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes with the body fluids of someone who is sick with MVD, or who recently died from their infection. These body fluids include blood, urine, saliva, sweat, feces, vomit, breast milk, amniotic fluid, or semen. People can also contract MVD if they have contact with infected animals, or with needles, or with other objects or surfaces contaminated with the virus. Marburg virus is not spread through airborne transmission.

Access revised guidelines here: https://netec.org/2023/03/09/ems-guidelines-for-marburg-virus-disease/

NEMSQA Measure Update Announcement: Minor Corrections Posted 10/16/2024

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:04:51 GMT

The following corrections were made to the 2024 NEMSQA Measures Report on 10/16/2024.

Airway-01: Successful First Endotracheal Intubation Attempt without Hypotension and without Hypoxia
Airway-05: Adequate Oxygen Saturation Achieved Before Endotracheal Intubation Attempts
Airway-18: Waveform Capnography Confirmation of Invasive Airway

A Wake-up Call on Airway Management

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:53:57 GMT

A Wake-up Call on Airway Management

The National EMS Quality Alliance (NEMSQA) has provided evidence-based quality measures designed to improve EMS performance and patient care. These measures areas like clinical effectiveness, patient safety, and patient experience. Using standardized definitions that map directly to NEMSIS fields, these measures provide individual EMS agencies, regions, and states a way to measure and enhance their performance. On a national scale, these measures identify variations in care and highlight best practices to improve the EMS industry.

"Improving airway management isn’t about accepting low performance – it’s about taking the information we have and using it to drive change. By focusing on standardized processes, embedding essential checkpoints into our workflow and leaning on quality measures, we can make real strides. And with the lessons learned from the NEMSQA EQUIP Airway Collaborative, we’ll have the insights we need to close the gaps. The goal is straightforward: keep pushing EMS forward to a higher standard of care, one airway measure at a time."

Read the full article here!

Emergency Medical Services (EMS): A Look at Disparities in Funding and Outcomes

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:31:36 GMT

Emergency Medical Services (EMS): A Look at Disparities in Funding and Outcomes

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Key Points:

Substantial geographic disparities in emergency medical services (EMS) exist based on urbanicity—for example, in rural areas more staff volunteer or work part time, response times are longer, paramedics typically have lower levels of certification, and EMS relies heavily on fee for service funding.
EMS response times for patients with cardiac arrest are 10% longer in low-income neighborhoods than in high-income neighborhoods.
Studies find substantial disparities in the provision of EMS based on race and sex.
In a case study of eleven counties in California, local EMS agencies that served rural counties had lower per capita EMS funding and lower percentages of cases that met established quality standards.

Dartmouth College EMS Research Study Survey

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 14:53:51 GMT

Dartmouth College EMS Research Study Survey

EMS researchers at Dartmouth College are conducting a brief survey examining how EMS clinicians cope with work-related stress. The team will use your opinions to inform the development of a future smartphone app for EMS clinicians that provides specific resources for healthy stress management.

The goal is to design an app for EMS clinicians by EMS clinicians. Through the survey conducted by Dartmouth College, they are collecting data specific to the high-stress situations you handle as an EMS Practitioner on a daily basis and how these situations can contribute to burnout and impact your health. This survey will allow Dartmouth to learn more about these experiences and help support retention and wellness of the EMS profession through a future EMS stress management app.

If you have not already participated in this brief survey study, please follow this link to the survey to determine if you are eligible:

Click here to start the survey or scan the QR code below:

Letter to Health Care Leaders and Stakeholders on Impacts of Hurricane Helene from Secretary Becerra

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:48:44 GMT

Letter to Health Care Leaders and Stakeholders on Impacts of Hurricane Helene from Secretary Becerra

Dear Partner:

Thank you for your work on behalf of individuals and communities around this country every day. As the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues responding to the impacts of Hurricane Helene, I want to first acknowledge the loss of life and continued search and rescue mission underway in the Southeast. HHS has over 400 personnel on the ground, and that number continues to grow. In addition to our responders supporting the impacted communities, I want to assure you that the Department is working tirelessly to mitigate the sterile solutions supply chain disruptions you may already be experiencing as a result of the storm. The U.S. Government (USG) has been working with Baxter at the highest level from the day the storm hit North Carolina, first to ensure Baxter employees and their families are safe. Since then, we have been in constant communication with Baxter and other solutions manufacturers to address gaps in supplies. My Department commits to mitigating the impact of Hurricane Helene and doing all we can to prevent further disruption as a result of Hurricane Milton. Not only do we commit to doing all we can during this supply chain disruption, but we also commit to doing all we can to diversify and build resilience in this supply chain going forward.

This is the status of the current supply chain disruption.

The impacts of Hurricane Helene have led to the temporary supply disruption at the Baxter facility in Marion, North Carolina. The Baxter facility provides a significant portion of IV solutions, irrigation fluids, and peritoneal solutions to the U.S. medical system. There are currently shortages of normal saline IV fluids, normal saline irrigation fluid, sterile water irrigation, and dextrose 5% IV fluids that pre-date Hurricane Helene. The hurricane-related supply disruption at the Baxter facility will likely lead to further constraints for IV fluids. However, compounding of drugs on the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) shortage list can be done in accordance with current requirements to help alleviate shortages [see Compounding when Drugs are on FDA’s Drug Shortages List | FDA]. In the coming weeks, supply may continue to be constrained, and we understand that certain products are on allocation; however, Baxter reported that they have resumed shipments to hospitals and dialysis providers and patients after the temporary hold last week, based on allocations as previously communicated. The inventory will be used to support current allocations in the short term, and they note that several of their global plants are scaling and ramping production to help meet U.S. needs. Other producers are expected to be able to continue to fulfill domestic orders within their allocation.

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ARHP Launches the Arkansas Rural Health Academy

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:47:29 GMT

ARHP Launches the Arkansas Rural Health Academy

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership (ARHP) launches the Arkansas Rural Health Academy (ARHA)to meet the critical, in-demand training needs of rural health member organizations across the state.

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership (ARHP) is a non-profit healthcare organization headquartered in Lake Village, Arkansas. ARHP members currently include 19 rural hospitals, 2 federally qualified health centers, and 3 medical teaching institutions. Initiatives aim to improve the health and wellness of rural residents, build a health workforce pipeline, sustain rural hospitals, and strengthen rural economies. The organization serves as a hub for economic growth and development across the region and a voice for rural health entities across the state of Arkansas and beyond.

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National Registry's Recertification Window Opens October 1, 2024 For EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:46:55 GMT

National Registry's Recertification Window Opens October 1, 2024 For EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics

Key Improvements to the Recertification Application Process

Streamlined Application: The application process has been simplified by removing unnecessary steps, allowing clinicians to complete their submissions faster than ever before.

Reduced ConED Questions: The number of questions related to continuing education (ConED) has been reduced, making the process more straightforward and expediting the time needed to submit applications.

Automatic Course Assignment: The CAPCE Import tool will now automatically assign courses to the National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) topics, minimizing manual input for clinicians and increasing accuracy.

Submission Assurance: Application submission has been improved to alleviate concerns about incomplete applications. In most cases, applications will be automatically submitted as long as a clinician has completed the recertification requirements and the payment process.

Learn more here: National Registry's Recertification Window Opens Today For EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics | National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (nremt.org)

NEMSAC Seeking New Members to Join in the National Conversation

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:15:24 GMT

NEMSAC Seeking New Members to Join in the National Conversation

Applications for a two-year term are due November 1, 2024

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is seeking applications for appointment to the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (NEMSAC). By joining NEMSAC, EMS professionals can be a part of the national conversation on issues impacting the EMS community. NEMSAC is a council of EMS sector representatives (which includes consumers of EMS) that provides information, advice, and recommendations regarding EMS to NHTSA and the Federal Interagency Committee on EMS (FICEMS).

Applications for membership must be received on or before 5 p.m. ET, November 1, 2024.

About NEMSAC

NEMSAC was initially established by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to guide the development and implementation of EMS and 911 systems. In 2012, Congress passed legislation that re-established NEMSAC as a 25 members statutory advisory council whose membership shall collectively be representative of selected sectors of the EMS community.

Qualifications

Members are selected for their ability to reflect a balanced representation of interests from across the spectrum EMS systems across the nation. NEMSAC’s membership shall be broad-based to comprise both sufficient EMS system expertise and the geographic/demographic diversity that accurately reflects the composition of the whole EMS community. Representatives will be selected on the basis of materials submitted and in a manner that ensured equal opportunity for all people—especially those in underrepresented and underserved communities—and in a manner that avoids discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or age. Qualified individuals interested in serving on the NEMSAC are invited to apply by submitting the required materials outlined in the Federal Register Notice.

NEMSAC is currently seeking to fill the following vacancies:

Hospital-based EMS Agencies
Tribal EMS Agencies
Air Medical EMS Agencies
Local EMS Officials
Trauma Surgeons
EMS Data Management Officials
EMS Researchers
Emergency Nurses
Hospital Administration
Public Health Officials
Emergency Management Practitioners
EMS Clinicians
Consumers (not directly affiliated with an EMS or healthcare organization)
State or local legislative bodies (e.g., city/county councils; state legislatures)

Membership applications should be submitted by the deadline to:

Email: NEMSAC@dot.gov

For further details about the application process or committee-related questions, contact Clary Mole, EMS Specialist, NHTSA, DOT, Clary.Mole@dot.gov or 202-868-3275.

The Health Care Landscape in Arkansas & the 2024 Election

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:03:59 GMT

The Health Care Landscape in Arkansas & the 2024 Election

A new KFF tool generates data-driven fact sheets that lay out the health care landscape in every state against the backdrop of the 2024 election. The Arkansas specific fact sheet can be found here: [KFF%20Releases%20Election%20Fact%20Sheets%20About%20the%20Health%20Care%20Landscape%20in%20Every%20State].

These state “snapshots” provide information on a variety of health care topics that may be the focus of campaign and policy debates. Topics include health costs; medical debt; women’s health policy, including state abortion, contraception and maternity laws and policies; health coverage, including the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and prescription drug coverage, Medicaid, and employer-sponsored insurance; gender affirming care; and basic information on health status, population and income.

The new tool is part of KFF’s broader collection of Election 2024-related resources, including our side-by-side comparison of the candidates’ positions and records on health policy issues.

EMS Voluntary Notification Tool

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:25:20 GMT

The EMS Voluntary Notification Tool (E.V.E.N.T.) is a tool designed to improve the safety, quality and consistent delivery of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). It collects data submitted anonymously by EMS practitioners. The data collected will be used to develop policies, procedures and training programs to improve the safe delivery of EMS. A similar system used by airline pilots has led to important airline system improvements based upon pilot reported "near miss" situations and errors. Any individual who encounters or recognizes a situation in which an EMS safety event occurred, or could have occurred, is strongly encouraged to submit a report by completing the appropriate EMS Voluntary Notification Tool. The confidentiality and anonymity of this reporting tool is designed to encourage EMS practitioners to readily report EMS safety events without fear of repercussion.

File a confidential and anonymous report:

Congress Passes SIREN Act Reauthorization to Assist Rural EMS (reprinted from IAFC Blog)

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:23:35 GMT

On September 17, the House of Representatives passed S. 265, the SIREN Reauthorization Act. This legislation will reauthorize funding for a grant program to support rural EMS.

Located at the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Rural EMS Training and Equipment Assistance (REMSTEA; also known as the SIREN grant program) provides grants directly to rural fire and non-profit EMS organizations. Specifically, the program funds training and certifications for EMS personnel and the purchase of medical equipment for rural EMS agencies. The link to the full article is available here.

Do Hospital Closures Affect Patient Times in an Ambulance?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:21:59 GMT

The Rural & Underserved Health Research Center's policy brief Do Hospital Closures Affect Patient Time in an Ambulance? notes that although hospital closures in urban and suburban areas do not result in longer transport times for patients needing emergency care, rural patients do experience longer ambulance transportation time if a hospital in their zip code stopped providing general in-patient care during the previous year. According to this report, rural patients over 64 years of age are likely to experience the greatest increase in time spent in an ambulance following a 911 call.

Arkansas EMS Advisory Council Meeting

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:16:31 GMT

Established by AR Code § 20-13-207, The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council shall recommend for adoption by the State Board of Health rules on all matters relating to emergency medical services, including without limitation:

(1) Standards for licensure of ambulance and advanced life support rescue personnel;

(2) Standards for equipment required on ambulance and advanced life support rescue vehicles;

(3) Standards for vehicles used in patient transportation and advanced life support rescue response, including communications requirements;

(4) A statewide communications system for emergency medical services;

(5) Operational standards for providers of ambulance and advanced life support rescue services, including reporting requirements and standards for air ambulance and air ambulance services; and

(6) Procedures for summoning and dispatching aid.

Denise Carson serves as the Arkansas Ambulance Association appointed representative to this Council. The next meeting of the council will be on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at the Freeway Medical Building, 5800 E 10^th Street, 9th Floor Boardroom, Little Rock. These meetings are open to the public and you are encouraged to attend.

Alliance Response - Emergency Management Assistance Compact Request

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:13:10 GMT

The Arkansas Ambulance Alliance was honored to answer a state EMAC request received from Florida in response to Hurricane Helene. An ALS ground ambulance strike team mobilized, and units staged at an area east of the eye wall impact zone. The team continues to support local EMS, fire, and rescue operations in the aftermath of this major storm. Please keep each of the agencies, our professional responders, and those impacted by the storm in your thoughts and prayers.