SB0711: REGULATION-TECH

Legislative Summary

Amends the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act. In provisions concerning education and training requirements, provides that a failure rate per course of 30% or greater at the first attempt on the licensure examination shall require the EMS System to submit a quality improvement plan to the Department of Public Health. Requires the EMS System to share failure rates with the EMS Lead Instructor quarterly. Provides that neither the EMS System nor the Department may take licensure action against an EMS Lead Instructor based solely on first-attempt pass rates. Requires candidates to complete the licensure examination within the timeline required by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Requires an accredited Paramedic program to be conducted only by an EMS System or an academic institution whose curriculum has been approved by the EMS System. Permits an EMS System associate hospital to allow students from an EMS System-approved and Department-approved Paramedic course to complete clinical rotations as approved by the EMS System Medical Director. Provides that the approval by the EMS System Medical Director cannot be unreasonably denied. Provides that candidates shall take the appropriate National Registry examination (rather than may elect to take the appropriate National Registry examination in lieu of the Department's examination, but are responsible for making their own arrangements for taking the National Registry examination). Provides that a person who is not an EMS personnel may operate an EMS vehicle pursuant to the Act if the specified requirements are met. Provides that a student enrolled in an EMT class may take the Department-approved EMR licensure exam after the student has completed the first 40 hours of the EMS System-approved and Department-approved EMT course. Sets forth provisions concerning Emergency Medical Services bridge programs and minimum experience and education requirements for EMS Lead Instructors. Effective immediately.