Conference Yields Suggestions for EMS

BETHESDA, Md. -- National EMS credentialing, a responder database and an academy dedicated to training personnel were just some of the suggestions that surfaced during a recent conference here.

EMS stakeholders from around the country spent two days brain-storming on what they believe are the most important EMS issues.

The event was coordinated by the Federal Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services (FICEMS) in an effort to ascertain what stakeholders think about the future of EMS.

Dr. Alexander Garza, assistant secretary of heath affairs and DHS chief medical officer, said he and his staff take their mission very seriously.

He thanked the participants for taking the time, adding that it's important to strengthen relationships.

Garza said it's imperative that jurisdictions relay their concerns to the appropriate federal agencies with EMS oversight. He praised responders for being resilient.

"We will listen to what you tell us," the former flight medic said. "It's time for us to step back and listen, to right the wrongs and do better..."

He explained that part of his agency's mission is to protect the heath of first responders especially during disaster response.

NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said he was looking forward to hearing from the stakeholders. "We have a lot of work ahead of us..."

Among the recommendations that surfaced included creating a lead federal EMS agency with adequate funding and authority.

Officials from that department would establish national standards for pre-hospital clinical care. Other core missions would include data collection, promote health and safety measures, grant programs and research.

There also was discussion about the need for funds for not only disaster preparedness and response, but recovery as well.

James Orsino, of Boston EMS, said he was honored to have been involved with some of the nation's top EMS officials. "It sounds like they were eager about hearing from people where the rubber hits the road..."

He said it was great to have an opportunity to have input.

Patrick Bahnken, of FDNY EMS, said he obtained both information and contacts being part of the process. "There were some very knowledgeable people who offered some very good recommendations."

NHTSA EMS Director Drew Dawson said he was impressed by the intensity of the recommendations.

"They provided some very valuable advice," he said, adding that officials have been busy pouring over the myriad of suggestions.

Dawson participants brought a wide range of perspectives to the table. "It was a very diverse group that just did an outstanding job."

He also lauded Richard Patrick, DHS Office of Health Affairs, for coordinating the stakeholders' gathering on behalf of FICEMS.

Dawson said he believes the relationships among agencies and providers are bolstering the EMS system nationwide.