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Emergency Medical Services for Children

Updated February 2009

In 1984 the federal government implemented legislation to address the special needs of children in Emergency Medical Services, by allotting grants to state EMS systems.  Following this initiative many states have utilized federal Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) grants to establish and enhance the ability to serve children in times of emergency.  States have also enacted legislative measures to initiate specialized training and require specific equipment to ensure emergency care meets the needs of injured children. 

This section highlights laws that improve access or services related to emergency care, with a focus on children. While several laws reported here specifically address EMSC, most apply to the broader population as well.  These measures include: requiring insurers to cover emergency services,  911 emergency services, ambulance and services regulations, workforce and personnel training, equipment designed to treat children, pediatric trauma centers, statewide trauma systems, and requiring parental consent for certain services.

Other related NCSL emergency medical service information not contained within this webpage includes: State Laws on Heart Attacks, Cardiac Arrest & Defibrillators, Childhood Injury Prevention, Summary of Poison Control Center State Laws, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome State Laws.

First Letter of State A C D F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W           NCSL Resources

State

Description 

Alabama

Ala. Code § 04-374 (2004) provides further for the service charge of fire dues of a fire district in the same manner as ad valorem taxes. Relates to districts for fire protection, emergency medical services, garbage, and other services.

Alaska

 

 

American
Samoa

 

Arizona

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 9-500.02 (2004, 2005)  sets limitations on liability for emergency medical technicians and paramedics providing aid to vulnerable and incapacitated adults. (HB 2195) Amended in 2005 to add emergency medical technician and other minor changes to language. (SB 1138)

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 11-251.02 (2004) among other abilities, this law empowers the board to require a certificate of necessity to provide ambulance service in the rural or wilderness service areas in counties with a population of less than five hundred thousand people. (HB 2671)

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 20-821 and 1068 (1996) requires health plans to provide coverage for an initial medical screening examination and any immediately necessary stabilizing treatment required by the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act without prior authorization by the plan, subject to applicable co-payments, coinsurance and deductibles. A provider may not deny, limit or otherwise restrict a patient's access to medically necessary emergency services based upon the patient's enrollment in a health plan. The act allows a health plan to require, as a condition of coverage, prior authorization for health care services arising after the initial screening and stabilizing treatment. In such cases, the health plan must provide enrollees 24-hour access by telephone or facsimile.

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 20-2801 (2000) defines various terms utilized within the chapter.  Amended definitions in 2000 to include "Emergency Ambulance Services," which means services provided by an ambulance service following the onset of a medical condition that manifests itself by symptoms of pain, illness or injury that the absence of access an ambulance or emergency response by calling 911 or a designated telephone number to reach public safety answering point and receiving time sensitive medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in any of the following: placing the health of the individual, or with respect to a pregnant woman, the health of her unborn child in serious jeopardy; serious impairment to bodily functions; serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part.

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 20-2803 (2000) requires insurers to provide coverage for emergency ambulance services without prior authorization, subject to applicable co-payment, coinsurance and deductibles.

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 36-2225 (2005) defines various terms related to statewide emergency medical services and trauma system. (SB 1134)

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 36-2205 (1998) allows the director of the Department of Health Services (DHS), in consultation with the medical director of Emergency Medical Services, the Emergency Medical Council and the Medical Direction Commission, to establish protocols relating to transportation of patients to the appropriate medical service provider based on the patient's condition. The act allows an ambulance service to provide gratuitous services if the patient subsequently declines to be treated or transported.  Expands upon emergency medical technicians training and certification.

Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 36-2232 (2004) provides regulations for ambulances and ambulance services. (HB 2568)

Arkansas

 

California

Cal. Education Code § 49414.5 (2003)  authorizes each school district to provide voluntary emergency medical training to school personnel to administer emergency medical assistance to pupils with diabetes and provides immunity from civil liability.

Cal. Health & Safety Code § 1345 (1998) provides definitions of terms used throughout the chapter.  Amended in 1998 to revise the definition of "basic health services" to provide that it includes ambulance and ambulance transport services provided through the "911" emergency response system.

Cal. Health and Safety Code § 1374.34 (2003) requires all health care services plans to provide reimbursement if the urgent care or emergency services are determined to be medically necessary.  The law authorizes each administering agency to maintain a reserve in specified portions of its emergency medical services fund, revises the formula for distribution of the fund, requires each county establishing an emergency medical services fund to report to the legislature annually on April 15th, and authorizes that any surplus beyond the amount designated for the reserve be reimbursed to physicians and surgeons at the end of the fiscal year.  Finally, the law requires the administering officer to solicit input from physicians and surgeons and hospitals to review payment distribution methodologies to ensure fair and timely payments.

Cal. Health and Safety Code § 1507.25 (2005) allows individuals who are not health care professionals including foster care providers to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in certain circumstances for foster children.  These individuals should be trained to administer these injections by a licensed health care professional. (AB 1116)

Cal. Health and Safety Code § 1797.98a, 1797.98b, 1797.98c, and 1797.98e (2003, 2008) authorizes each county to establish an emergency medical services fund, and makes money in the fund available for the reimbursement of physicians and surgeons and hospitals for losses incurred in the provision of emergency medical services when payment is not otherwise made for those services. Establishes other provisions related to these funds.  In addition to other emergency medical service fund allotment the statute stipulates that for fines collected within a county penalty fund (as specified in Cal. Government Code § 16000.5), 15 percent of these funds shall be utilized to fund pediatric trauma care centers. (2003 SB 476)(2008 SB 1236)

Cal. Health & Safety Code § 1797.254 (1996) requires local EMS agencies to annually submit an emergency medical services plan for the EMS area to the authority, according to EMS Systems, Standards, and Guidelines established by the authority.

Colorado

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 10-16-102, 107, 116 and 705 (1999) prohibits a managed care plan from denying benefits for emergency services previously rendered, based upon the covered person's failure to provide subsequent notification in accordance with the plan provision, where the covered person's medical condition prevented timely notification. (SB141)

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 25-3.5-703 and 704 (1999) provides various definitions including

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 29-11-101, 102 and 104 (2004) provides definitions and regulations for emergency telephone services also requires governing body to incur costs pertaining to continued operation of emergency telephone services; provides that funds from charges assigned by governing body be applied to all related costs of continued operation. (SB 111)

a Regional Pediatric Trauma Center as a facility that provides comprehensive pediatric trauma care, including acute management of the most severely injured pediatric trauma patients. It may serve as an ultimate resource for lower level facilities on pediatric trauma care, and as a facility that performs pediatric trauma research and provides pediatric trauma education for health care professionals. Establishes a statewide emergency medical and trauma care system, including transportation protocols, regional advisory councils, a communication system and a statewide trauma registry.  The law also authorizes Department of Public Health and Environment to designate a facility as a regional pediatric trauma center. (SB 1214)

Connecticut

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 19a-195a (1997) requires the Department of Public Health commissioner to adopt regulations for certifying intermediate level emergency medical technicians and requires the certification standards to be uniform statewide. The regulations must also allow applicants to take required courses statewide and for certified EMT-intermediates to work throughout the state.

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 38a-175 et seq. (1997) requires that presenting symptoms, as coded by the provider and recorded by the hospital, will be the basis for reimbursement or coverage, provided such symptoms reasonably indicated an emergency medical condition. For the purposes of this section, an emergency medical condition is a condition such that a prudent layperson, acting reasonably, would have believed that emergency medical treatment is needed. The law also requires that managed care organizations provide enrollees with a description of emergency services and the appropriate use of those services.

Delaware

Del. Code Ann. tit. 16 § 9701 et seq. (1996) establishes a voluntary and inclusive statewide trauma care system and provides for the creation of a statewide trauma plan addressing pre-hospital care, prevention, hospital care, rehabilitative care, continuing education and trauma system evaluation. The act also permits representation of the Trauma Systems Committee on the Delaware Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council to safeguard against fragmentation of the Delaware EMS System. The act also protects the confidentiality of all quality management proceedings related to the trauma care system.

Del. Code Ann. tit. 16 § 9806 (2003) clarifies the definition and role of the State EMS Directors in the statewide paramedic system and their role in providing on patient care during emergency situations.  The law also identifies paramedics as EMS providers entitled to liability protection. (HB 197)

Del. Code Ann. tit. 16 § 10005, 10103, 10104, 10105 and tit. 30 § 501 (2003) correct some defects in the enactment of the funding provisions of the integrated wireline and wireless E-911 system. (HB 143)

District of Columbia

 

Florida

 

 

Fla. Stat. § 212.055 (2003)  authorizes certain counties to levy surtax to fund trauma.  The law requires the Department of Health to promote the development of trauma centers and agencies and to perform assessment of the trauma system and report its findings to the governor and the legislature.  The law also sets boundaries for state trauma system plan. (SB 1762)

Fla. Stat. § 401.252 (1997) addresses rules of interfacility transfer.  Requires infants less than 28 days old or infants weighing less than five kilograms, who require critical care interfacility transport to a neonatal intensive care unit, to be transported in a permitted advance life support or basic life support transport ambulance, or in a permitted advanced life support or basic life support ambulance that is recognized by the Department of Health as meeting designated criteria for neonatal interfacility criteria care transport.

Fla. Stat. § 641.47 (1996) prohibits certain misrepresentations by HMOs on the availability of providers and specifies requirements for HMOs in providing emergency services and care. The act specifies an emergency medical condition with respect to a pregnant woman to mean there is inadequate time to effect safe transfer to another hospital before delivery, a transfer may pose a threat to the health and safety of the patient or fetus, or there is evidence of the onset and persistence of uterine contractions or rupture of the membranes.

Fla. Stat. § 768.1335 (2003) creates the Emergency Medical Dispatch Act and provides a presumption of nonnegligence for certain individuals who use emergency dispatch protocols. The law also provides for grants to local agencies to support emergency medical dispatch. (HB 195)

Georgia

Ga. Code Ann. § 31-11-1 et seq. (1997, 2003) provides definitions and general information related to the Georgia emergency medical services systems and communication programs.  

Ga. Code Ann. § 31-11-82 (1997) prohibits insurance plans from denying payment for certain medical interventions for emergency conditions or when prospective authorization has been given.

Ga. Code Ann. § 33-20A-1 et seq. and § 33-21-1, 13, 18 (1996)

enacts the Patient Protection Act, with provisions for the certification and regulation of managed health care plans by the commissioner of insurance. Among other provisions, the act uses the prudent layperson test to define emergency care services as services that are provided for a condition of recent onset and sufficient severity, that would lead a prudent layperson, possessing an average knowledge of medicine and health, to believe that failure to obtain immediate medical care could result in placing the patient's health in serious jeopardy, serious impairment to bodily functions, or serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part. The act specifies that prior authorization is not required for the reimbursement of these services.

Guam

1996 Guam Laws, P.L. 23-77

designates the Guam Fire Department as the central agency for the overall operation of the island's 911 emergency medical services system; requires the commission to adopt rules and regulations for the operation and implementation of the EMS System, the administration of the commission and the standards for certification of emergency medical services.

Hawaii

 

 

Hawaii Rev. Stat. § 321-221 et seq. (1999, 2003, 2004)

Hawaii Rev. Stat. § 431:10A, 432:1 and 432D (1998) establishes that certain insurers and HMOs will cover emergency services provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week to members with emergency medical conditions without regard to whether the member, or an emergency provider treating the member, obtained prior authorization for these services. The law requires health plans to cover emergency services provided to a member at a nonparticipating emergency department up to the point of stabilization if the member presents oneself with an emergency medical condition; and due to circumstances beyond the member's control, the member was unable to arrive at a participating emergency department without serious threat to life or health-based on the prudent layperson standard. The law also provides that health plans reimburse an emergency provider and an emergency department for any items or service not necessary to stabilize the patient but that are determined to be medically necessary to treat the illness that lead the patient to believe that he or she had an emergency medical condition, and that a reasonable patient would expect to receive from a physician at the time of presentation.

establishes within the Department of Health the emergency medical service system for children, and defines "emergency medical services for children" as comprehensive emergency medical services including preventive, pre-hospital, hospital, rehabilitative, and other post-hospital care for children. The act establishes a state comprehensive emergency medical services system throughout the state to include but not be limited to emergency medical services for children. The system provides for personnel, personnel training, communications, emergency transportation, facilities, coordination with emergency services, coordination and use of available public safety agencies, promotion of consumer participation, accessibility to care, mandatory, standard medical record-keeping, consumer information and education, independent review and evaluation, disaster linkage, mutual aid agreements, and other.  Amended in 2003 requiring the Department of Health to integrate emergency aeromedical services into statewide emergency medical services.  This law also establishes the emergency aeromedical system and quality improvement committee and appropriates funds for aeromedical services for Maui County. (SB 745)  Amended in 2004, resolving that the state shall not be liable for any claim of injury or death based on a failure to establish or continue emergency aeromedical services. (SB 3156) 

Idaho

 

 

Idaho Code § 31-3503 and 31-3503A (1997) establishes administrative procedures to provide emergency services for individuals without health insurance coverage. Assigns powers and duties to county hospitals and administrators related to emergency medical services.

Idaho Code § 39-1392a, 1392b, 1392e and 1393 (2004) defines terms related to emergency medical services. Addresses the confidentiality of patient records with limited exceptions. Addresses professional peer review of a physician or emergency medical service personnel.  (SB 1320)

Idaho Code § 41-3901 et seq. (1997) prohibits a Managed Care Organization (MCO) from requiring prior authorization for emergency services, and requires an MCO to respond to a member or provider's request for prior authorization of a nonemergency service within two business days after complete member medical information is provided to the MCO, under most circumstances.

Idaho Code § 56-1017 (2004)  provides for the adoption of rules and standards concerning the criteria for certified EMS personnel and the use of air medical services in emergency situations.

Illinois

Ill. Rev. Stat. ch. 210, § 50/1 et seq. (1996) known as the Emergency Medical Services Systems (EMS) Act.  Provides definitions and requirements for the for Illinois EMS Systems.  In addition, the Illinois Department of Public Health is allowed to investigate a hospital in an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system that goes on "bypass status" to determine whether that action was reasonable and to fine a hospital for unreasonably going on this status. The act also requires each EMS system and its trauma center medical directors' committee to send the department, within 90 days after enactment, an internal disaster plan describing contingency plans to transfer patients to other facilities in a catastrophe.

Ill. Rev. Stat. ch. 210, § 6.14f and ch. 410, § 535/18 (2005) requires a trauma center to report to the trauma registry any accident in which a person under 18 was injured that involved a motor vehicle backing over a child or the power window of a motor vehicle.  If this incident results in death, it is also to be reported to the Department of Children and Family Services.

Ill. Rev. Stat. ch. 305, § 5/6-1 et seq. (1996) amends the Public Aid Code to provide that a local governmental unit in any county may elect to provide, at a minimum, under the General Assistance Program, financial aid for emergency medical treatment, care and supplies only, deleting the term "necessary treatment, care and supplies required because of illness or disability." The act requires that the General Assistance rules of the local governmental unit must specify the emergency treatment for which financial aid is provided and must include medical treatment, care and supplies necessitated by a condition that is life-threatening, will result in significant and permanent physical impairment, or requires immediate attention to relieve significant present physical pain and suffering. The act provides that a township, township supervisor, or township employee is not liable for injury caused by a decision to grant or deny aid under the Article on General Assistance.

Indiana

Ind. Code § 12-17.6-1-2.6 and 12-17.6-4-3 (2000)

Ind. Code § 16-31-3-2 (2008) provides that Emergency Medical Services personnel training requirements must include a course of education and training on autism. (HB 1171)

Ind. Code § 27-13-36-9 (1998) requires HMOs to provide coverage for emergency services under a prudent layperson standard and access to medically necessary nonformulary drugs without prior approval.  (HB 1309)

Ind. Code § 36-8-16.5 et seq. (1998) creates the wireless 911 advisory board and requires the board to levy a monthly fee on each commercial mobile radio service telephone number (other than a government telephone number) that has a billing address in the state. It also requires the board to create the Wireless Emergency Telephone System Fund for the purpose of creating and maintaining an enhanced wireless 911 system. The law makes using wireless emergency telephone service for a purpose other than obtaining public safety assistance a Class A misdemeanor.

defines emergency as a medical condition that arises suddenly and unexpectedly and manifests itself by acute symptoms of such severity, including severe pain, that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected by a prudent layperson who possesses an average knowledge of health and medicine to: place an individual's health in serious jeopardy; result in serious impairment to the individual's bodily functions; or result in serious dysfunction of a bodily organ or part of the individual. Deductibles, coinsurance, or other cost sharing is not permitted with respect to services for treatment of an emergency in an emergency department of a hospital. (SB 504)

Iowa

Iowa Code § 80B.11C (1995) requires the director of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy to adopt rules establishing minimum standards for the training of telecommunicators, which are people who receive requests for, or dispatch requests to, emergency response agencies that include law enforcement, fire, rescue, emergency medical services and other similar agencies.

Iowa Code § 147A.6 (1997)

Iowa Code § 331.385 and § 331.424C (2005) Relates to emergency services provided to residents of certain townships; includes effective date and retroactive applicability date provisions; relates to fire protection and emergency medical services; provides for a township levy. (HB 607)

provides that certification fees currently paid to the Iowa Department of Public Health by emergency medical care providers are to be deposited in the Emergency Medical Services Fund. This fund is to be used to assist counties by matching, on a dollar-for-dollar basis, moneys spent by a county for the acquisition of emergency medical services equipment and to provide grants to counties for education and training in the delivery of emergency medical services.

Kansas

Kan. Stat. Ann. § 40-4603 (1997) requires health plans to cover emergency services according to the presenting symptoms as defined by the provider and to cover an emergency medical examination and stabilizing treatment regardless of whether prior authorization was obtained.

Kan. Stat. Ann. § 65-6102 and 65-6110 et seq. (1998) adds to the types of emergency care some emergency medical services personnel may provide, creates new categories of certification, adds new grounds for disciplinary action and authorizes a physician assistant to give directions to certified emergency services personnel when authorized to do so by the physician who is responsible for the physician assistant. The law establishes the emergency medical services board, including the board's duties and members.  Law also gives the emergency medical services board authority to set the qualifications of, approve training for and establish fees applicable to training officers.

Kentucky

Ky. Rev. Stat. § 213.143 (2003) provides for the issuance of a commemorative copy of a certificate of birth or a certificate of marriage, with the fees collected to be deposited in the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program. (SB 60)

Ky. Rev. Stat. § 304.17A-500 and 304.17A-580 (1998, 2000) requires health benefit plans to educate enrollees on the availability of emergency and other medical services and requires health benefit plans to cover emergency department screening and stabilization services both in and out of network. The act also requires that emergency department personnel contact the patient's primary care provider or health benefit plan as quickly as possible for follow-up and post-stabilization services to promote the continuity of care.

Ky. Rev. Stat. § 311A.045 (2003) establishes the Emergency Medical Services for Children program, including requirements for the EMSC coordinator and how funds may be allocated which are received for EMSC services. (SB 60)

Ky. Rev. Stat. §314.181c, 216B-0415 and 216B.0417 (1998) specifies that the State Board of Medical Licensure has sole jurisdiction relating to complaints against a physician serving as medical director of an ambulance service and provides that the nursing board has sole jurisdiction relating to complaints against a nurse serving in a prehospital setting for an ambulance service.

Louisiana

La. Rev. Stat. § 22:657(D)(2) (1997) requires an insurer to provide coverage and subsequently pay providers for emergency care, including screening, evaluation and stabilization of insured people who present themselves with an emergency medical condition. The act prohibits an insurer from retrospectively denying or reducing payments to providers for emergency care services except in the case where a provider falsifies information.

La. Rev. Stat. § 36:259(M) (1997) requires the Department of Health and Hospitals to promulgate rules and regulations establishing a list of required medical and safety equipment that must be carried in every ambulance. The act also requires that the list to be consistent with the scope of practice for emergency medical technicians and to be based upon the recommendations of an advisory committee known as the Ambulance Standards Committee of the Emergency Medical Services Task Force as established by the assistant secretary of the Office of Public Health. The committee must include a representative from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

La. Rev. Stat. §40:1231 et seq. and 1232 et seq. (1997) creates the Emergency Medical Services Certification Commission and establishes requirements for certification and grounds for disciplinary action. This act also addresses the scope of practice of emergency medical technicians.

La. Rev. Stat. §40:1300.101 et seq. (1995)

La. Rev. Stat. § 40:2109.3 (1993) requires registered nurses working primarily in hospital emergency rooms and pediatric wards to have trained in pediatric advanced life support and an emergency nursing pediatric course that includes training in pediatric trauma. Training taken in compliance with this requirement may be used to satisfy continuing education requirements.

creates the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program and requires the secretary of the Department of Health and Hospitals to hire a coordinator of program. The coordinator's duties are delineated in the act, which also provides for program functions. In addition, the act creates an advisory council and allows the governor to appoint a minimum of 17 public members including a board certified pediatric surgeon, a pediatric critical care physician, a board-certified pediatric emergency physician, a pediatric psychiatrist, an emergency physician, an emergency medical technician, a paramedic, a family practice physician, two registered emergency nurses, a person representing the nursing schools, a person representing vocational technical emergency medical services education, an administrator of an ambulance service company, and three members with a non-medical background, two of whom are parents of children under the age of 18.

Maine

Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 25, § 2927 (3), (3A), tit. 32 § 85A (2005) requires the Emergency Services Communication Bureau within the Public Utilities Commission, in consultation with the Emergency Medical Services Board, to adopt rules governing qualifications for and standards to be observed by providers of emergency medical dispatch services; requires transfer of funds to the Other Special Revenue Funds, Emergency Medical Services and the Emergency Services' Board; provides for payment of emergency medical dispatch training costs. (Public Law No. 303)

Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 29A, § 2054 (2) (2005) provides information on emergency vehicles including lights, sirens, and privileges.  Permits municipal and volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services personnel to use any combination of 2 flashing red or white lights on personal vehicles while en route to or at the scene of fires or other emergencies; provides that such vehicles are covered by the rules of operation applying to authorized emergency vehicles. (Public Law No. 299)

Maryland

Md. Health - General Code § 1-101, 15-101 and 15-114.1 (1998) provides definitions to be used within the code citations.  Requires the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to reimburse public emergency service transporters for the costs of transportation and medical services provided to a Medicaid recipient during transport to specified facilities in response to a 911 call if the emergency service transporter charges for its services and requests reimbursement from the program. 

Md. Health - General Code § 4-301, 5-601 and 5-608 et seq. (1997, 1998) establishes definitions for terms, clarifies the meanings of "health care provider," "health care practitioner" and "health practitioner" to include specified emergency medical services personnel and provides a penalty for unauthorized provision of emergency medical services. Provides immunity from criminal or civil liability for emergency medical services personnel for the provision of health care by these personnel under specified circumstances.

Md. Health - General § 19-131, 19-706(ddd) (2005) relates to freestanding medical facilities for emergency services that are physically separate from a hospital; provides for a pilot project that does not require a certificate of need; provides for payment of claims by health maintenance organizations; provides for review. (SB 231)

Md. Health - General Code § 19-705.1, 710, 712.5, 716, 19-729 et seq. (1996, 1998) requires HMOs to reimburse hospital emergency facilities and providers (minus the applicable copayment) for medically necessary services provided to an HMO enrollee, if the HMO authorized, directed, referred, or allowed the use of the emergency facility and the services are related to the condition for which the member was allowed to use the emergency facility. The act stipulates that a provider is not required to obtain prior authorization or approval for payment from an HMO in order to obtain reimbursement. The act authorizes the hospital, provider, or insurer that has reimbursed a provider to collect or attempt to collect payment from an enrollee for a medical condition that is determined not to be an emergency. The act requires HMOs to provide to members a statement of the potential responsibility of the member to pay for services the member seeks to obtain from a provider, including a physician or hospital, without a written contract with the HMO. In addition, HMOs must provide members with a description of procedures to be followed for emergency services, including the appropriate use of hospital emergency facilities; the appropriate use, location and hours of operation of any urgent care facilities operated by the HMO; and the potential responsibility of subscribers and enrollees for payment for emergency services or nonemergency services rendered in a hospital emergency facility. Also, requires an HMO to reimburse a hospital emergency facility and provider, less any applicable copayments, for medical assessment and stabilization services rendered to meet the requirements of the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Md. Transportation § 19-130, 13-912 et seq. and 16-111.2 (2004) relates to the Maryland Trauma Physician Services Fund. Including information on funding and services. (HB 1467)

Massachusetts

Mass. Gen Laws ch. 111C § 3 (2003) establishes the powers and duties of the department of public health related to the statewide emergency medical service system.  Including regulation of the color of emergency medical service vehicles operated by fire departments. (H.B. 1914)

Michigan

Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 550.1418 and 500.3406K (1998) requires health plans that provide coverage for emergency health services to provide coverage for medically necessary services provided to an insured for the sudden onset of a medical condition that manifests itself by signs and symptoms of sufficient severity including: severe pain such, that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in serious jeopardy to the individual's health or to a pregnancy in the case of a pregnant woman; serious impairment to bodily functions; or serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part. An insurer may not deny payment for emergency health services up to the point of stabilization provided to an insured under this subsection because of either of the following: final diagnosis, or because prior authorization was not given by the health care corporation before emergency health services were provided.

Minnesota

Minn. Stat. § 144E.01 (2003, 2004) establishes the membership and duties of the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board. Relates to the required licensure of the emergency medical services personnel including training. (SB 1748)

Mississippi

Miss. Code Ann. § 41-59-3 et seq. (2004) establishes emergency medical services regulations and requirements.  Prescribes certain requirements regarding the operation of ambulances and special use emergency medical service vehicles. Revises the definition of authorized emergency vehicle, provides the minimum distance from ambulances that other vehicles must maintain in certain situations, specifies the color of lights with which ambulances and 911 emergency communications district vehicles may be marked. Amended in 2004, revises the definition of first responder in the emergency medical services law by deleting the requirement for certification by they state department of health. Requires responders to be certified by the state department of health. (HB 445)

Miss. Code Ann. § 41-49-3 et seq. (1998) directs the State Department of Health to develop and administer a uniform statewide trauma care system to reduce death and disability resulting from traumatic injury. The act increases the assessment collected on traffic violations and implied consent law violations to help fund the trauma care system.

Missouri

Mo. Ann. Stat. § 190.001 et seq. (1998) the 'Comprehensive Emergency Medical Services Act' among other objectives, authorizes the continued operation of ambulance districts operating before August 1, 1998, in counties with a population of less than 400,000 and allows for a property tax to fund ambulance district pension programs. The law also establishes the State Advisory Council on Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to advise the governor, General Assembly and Department of Health on matters related to improving all aspects of emergency medical service and requires the selection of one physician from each EMS region to serve as regional EMS medical director. In addition, it authorizes the Department of Health to establish a pediatric EMS system, requires the department to license and regulate all ambulance services; requires the department to certify the various levels of technicians and regulate and accredit institutions that train EMS personnel; and requires the department to license and regulate all levels of emergency medical technicians. The law provides that health carriers and managed care plans pay benefits directly to ambulance services and prohibits them from discouraging the use of 911 systems when emergency service is needed. The Department of Health must collect data on all ambulance runs and injured patients and designate a hospital as an adult, pediatric or adult/pediatric trauma center. Finally, the law requires severely injured patients to be transported to a trauma center or the nearest appropriate facility for stabilization. Patients who are not severely injured will be transported to the hospital of choice.

Mo. Ann. Stat. § 354.400 and 354.603 (1997) defines an emergency medical condition to include those conditions that would lead a prudent layperson to believe that immediate medical care is required. The law also requires health carriers to cover emergency services necessary to screen and stabilize an enrollee without prior authorization and directs them to deny post-stabilization services within 60 minutes of a request for authorization. The law also requires that enrollees have access to emergency care 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

Montana

 

Nebraska

 

Nevada

 

New Hampshire

N.H. Rev. Stat. § 21-P: 12-d (2003) relates to relative fees for copies of motor vehicle records, relative to the fire standards, training and emergency medical services fund. Also relates to the relative fire standards, training and emergency medical services report and budget.

N. H. Rev. Stat. § 21-P: 34 et seq. (2004) establishes a division of emergency services, communications, and management, and combines the division of emergency medical services with the division of fire standards.  Establishes emergency communication through Enhanced 911 System.  (SB 432)

N.H. Rev. Stat. § 417-F: 1 et seq. (1997) establishes a definition of emergency services for health care insurance purposes to ensure consistent interpretation of those services covered. The act also requires that a participating provider or other authorized representative of the plan that gives prior authorization shall not rescind or modify the authorization after the health care provider has rendered the authorized emergency services care in good faith and the enrollee's, insured's, or subscriber's coverage was effective on the date of service.

New Jersey

N.J. Stat. § 30:6D-5.1 et seq. and § 45:1-21.3 (2003) "Danielle's Law"; requires certain staff working with persons with developmental disabilities or traumatic brain injury to call 911 emergency telephone service in life-threatening emergencies.

New Mexico

N.M. Stat. § 59A-57-1 et seq., 59A-1-16 and 59A-46-30 (1998) requires managed care organizations to provide emergency care without prior authorization requirements and appropriate out-of-network emergency care must not be subject to additional costs.

New York

2005 N.Y. Laws, Chap. 516 creates the Child Abuse Medical Provider (CHAMP) program to better provide quality emergency medical services to children suspected of maltreatment. The program also provides education for mandated reporters of abuse and neglect. (S.B. 7643)

2005 N.Y. Laws, Chap. 614 establishes the Emergency Medical Services for Children Act which provides emergency medical, trauma, and disaster care for all children. (A.B. 10690)

North Carolina

N.C. Gen. Stat. § 58-3-176, 58-67-50(c) and 58-3-190 (1997) requires coverage for emergency services to be provided to the extent necessary to screen and stabilize the person covered under the plan. If the emergency services are obtained from a hospital or other provider outside the managed care plan's network, they must still be covered if a prudent layperson would have believed a delay in seeking treatment would worsen the emergency or if the patient went outside the plan network for emergency treatment for reasons beyond his or her control. The law also bans prior approval of emergency treatment if a prudent layperson acting reasonably would have believed an emergency existed. If prior approval has been given by the health benefit plan for emergency treatment, that approval cannot be retracted after the services have been rendered unless the provider or the patient materially misrepresented the patient's condition. It requires that a managed care plan impose deductibles and copayments on emergency treatment equal to other treatment. The law requires managed care plans provide information to their enrollees on coverage of emergency medical services, the use of those services, cost-sharing provisions for emergency medical services, and accessibility and availability of those services.

N.C. Gen. Stat. § 62A-40 et seq. (1998) establishes a system for charging cellular telephone users for enhanced 911 service and establishes a method of administering and distributing the collected funds. In December 1997, the Federal Communications Commission adopted an order requiring enhanced 911 capabilities for cellular telephones so that the physical location of the person using a cell phone to call for 911 services can be pinpointed when the 911 call is connected. In order to implement the enhanced 911 capabilities, there must be a mechanism for recovering the costs of the services.

N.C. Gen. Stat. § 110-102.1A (2003) prohibits administration of medication at child care facilities without written authorization from a child's parent or guardian.  Medication may be administered in the event of an emergency medical situation if the child's parent is not available if medication is authorized and in accordance with the instructions of a bona fide medical professional. (SB 266)

 

North Dakota

N.D. Cent. Code § 14-10-17.1 (2007) minor may receive treatment or care in an emergency situation without the consent of a parent or guardian.  Consent is implied if reasonable steps are made to contact the minor's parent or guardian and they remain unreachable (HB 1162)

N.D. Cent. Code § 23-27-04.3 (2005) assigns the state health council to establish rules related to emergency medical services personnel training (HB 1243)

N.D. Cent. Code § 50-24.1-15 (2005) relates to provider appeals of medical assistance reimbursement denials; relates to prehospital emergency medical services. Requires medical assistance coverage to include prehospital emergency medical services.  Claims meeting the prudent layperson standard cannot be denied. (HB 1206)

Ohio

Ohio Rev. Code § 145.012, 307.052 et seq., and 4765.01 et seq. (1996) provides provisions for establishing joint emergency medical service districts.  Provides definitions for state employees and emergency medical services.  Provides state trauma regulations.  Requires the State Board of Emergency Medical Services to certify as a "first responder" an applicant who is a volunteer for a nonprofit emergency medical service organization or nonprofit fire department, unless this requirement is waived by the board, holds a certificate of completion of an accredited training program, passes a board-administered examination for first responders and meets other specified requirements. The act establishes the scope of practice of a first responder as one who is authorized to provide limited emergency medical services to patients until the arrival of an emergency medical technician and who must receive, unless communications fail, authorization before performing other services specified in the board's rules. The act extends civil immunity to first responders similar to the immunity of other emergency medical technicians.

Ohio Rev. Code § 1753.28 (1997) defines emergency medical condition and requires a health insuring corporation to provide coverage for emergency health care services. The law also provides for coverage from nonparticipating providers and facilities under certain circumstances.

Oklahoma

Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 1-2503, 2506, 2511 and 2516 (2005) provides definitions for terms related to emergency response systems.  Emergency medical personnel are to perform medical procedures assisting patients to the best of their abilities, and follow standards established by the Medical Direction Subcommittee of the Oklahoma Emergency Response Systems Development Advisory Council and approved by the State Board of Health. Establishes the powers and duties of the Commissioner of Health related to the Oklahoma Emergency Medical Services Improvement Program.  Creates the Emergency Response Systems Development Advisory Council establishing membership and duties of the council. (SB 539), (SB 1012)

 

 

Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 1-2530 et seq. (2003) creates the Oklahoma Trauma Systems Improvement and Development Act. Provides for reimbursements, defines terms, provides promulgation of rules by the State Board of Health, specifies contents of rules.  Establishes the Oklahoma Trauma Systems Improvement and Development Advisory Council including membership and duties.  Includes information on the Medical Audit Committee, and the law establishes funding.  Creates the Trauma Care Assistance Revolving Fund, establishing the allotment of compiled funds.  (SB 1554), (SB 621), (HB 2600) 

Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 1-706.11, .12 (1995) establishes the Oklahoma Medical Services for Children Resource Center within the pediatrics section of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine to develop uniform statewide guidelines and protocols for the improvement of emergency pediatric services and to provide education and training for health care professionals and emergency services personnel in emergency pediatric medicine. The center will be operated under a contract between the College of Medicine and the State Department of Health, which has received federal funds for the improvement of emergency services.

Oregon

Or. Rev. Stat. § 353.450, 431.623, 442.505, 682.039 (1999) establishes a continuing education and training programs for emergency medical technicians and physicians in rural areas.  Within the Department of Human Services, the Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Systems Program is created.  Among other duties the program is to establish standards of care for the state as well as statewide educational curriculum.  Also, the Office of Rural Health is to provide technical assistance to rural hospitals.  Establishes the State Emergency Medical Services Committee including its membership and specific duties.

Or. Rev. Stat. § 682.025 and 682.051 (1997) provides definitions related to emergency medical services.  Allows the emergency medical services system authority to provide patient information to a designated official of an ambulance service. The information, related to a patient's admission, location, and diagnosis, is treated as confidential and a fee may be charged. Establishes ambulence regulations.

Pennsylvania

Pa. Cons. Stat. tit. 35 § 7011 et seq. (2003) establishes a Statewide integrated wireless E-911 State plan; establishing a Wireless E-911 Emergency Services Fund and disbursements. Further provides for collection of an E-911 surcharge from wireless customers and for annual reporting. Also establishes a wireless E-911 Emergency Services Advisory Committee providing for rules and regulations. (HB 1018)

Pa. Cons. Stat. tit. 40 § 991.2111(4) and 40 § 991.2116 (1998)

 adopts the prudent layperson standard for emergency services. The law states that a managed care plan shall ensure that emergency services are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provide reasonable payment or reimbursement for those services.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Laws, P. del S. § 240, Law Num 127 (1998)

Puerto Rico Laws, P. de la C. 1375, Law Num 152 (1998) amends existing law to require the Department of Health to certify all people using electronic equipment to sustain life.

amends existing law to include people who have completed their first year of medical school on the list of people who are excluded from civil damages when performing emergency services.

Rhode Island

R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-4.1-16 (1997, 2005) establishes an Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program to facilitate the provision of emergency medical services to children. The objective and directive of the EMSC program shall be to continue, to the extent that funds through the federal government or private sources are available for this purpose, the growth and development of those programs already in effect pursuant to the federal grant received under the Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The law outlines program goals and objectives including the development and implementation of new statewide EMS treatment protocols that emphasize pediatric emergency care, along with supporting EMT education and training programs; the development of programs for parents and communities, which shall identify and reduce barriers to emergency care for children, provide information relating to health promotion and injury prevention, and focus on recognition of emergencies and improving access to and appropriate use of the local EMS systems; and the provision of periodic case reviews and follow-up to EMS personnel in pediatric cases. Amended in 2005 continues the Emergency Medical Services for Children program through several funding sources. The role of the program is to develop and implement protocols for EMS and pediatric care, develop a program for providers and families to eliminate barriers to emergency care for children and provide information on injury prevention, and complete periodic case reviews on EMS providers. (H.B. 5280)

South Carolina

S.C. Code Ann. § 44-61-300 et seq. (1998) provides for the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program within the Department of Health and Environmental Control. The law outlines the program's duties, which include the establishment of education programs in infant and children emergency care for emergency medical services personnel, and the development of guidelines for pediatric equipment for emergency departments and others. Working with the Data Oversight Council, the program will collect and analyze statewide pediatric emergency and critical care data from such medical services for the purpose of quality improvement by the facilities and services. In addition, the law provides for the confidentiality of the identities of patients, emergency and critical care medical services personnel and emergency and critical care medical services facilities referenced in information in connection with the program.

South Dakota

 

Tennessee

Tenn. Code § 7-86-102 (2003) authorizes emergency communications districts to meet homeland security requirements and be self-supporting. Allows board of directors to determine emergency telephone service charge to fund 911 service. (SB 3115)

Tenn. Code § 56-7-2355 (1997) prohibits a health benefit plan from denying coverage for emergency services if the symptoms presented by an enrollee of a health benefit plan and recorded by the attending provider indicate that an emergency medical condition could exist, regardless of whether or not prior authorization was obtained to provide those services, and regardless of whether or not the provider furnishing the services has a contractual agreement with the health benefit plan for the provision of such services to such enrollee. Once an enrollee is stabilized, a health benefit plan may require as a condition of further coverage that a provider promptly contact the health insurer for prior authorization for continuing treatment, specialty consultations, transfer arrangements or other medically necessary and appropriate care for an enrollee. However, coverage of emergency services is subject to applicable copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.

Tenn. Code § 68-140-503 (2003) establishes the Emergency Medical Services Board, including the board's membership and duties.

Tenn. Code § 68-140-506 (2003) relates to emergency medical services. Provides that a separate license shall be required for each service and a separate permit required for each vehicle authorized for operation thereof.  (HB 3192)

Texas

Texas Health and Safety Code § 772.114, .214 (2005) allows the Board to impose an emergency service fee at an established rate in certain 9-1-1 emergency service districts. (SB 314),  (SB 171)

Tex. Health & Safety Code § 773.003(10) and 773.0495 et seq. (1997) provides definitions related to emergency medical services.  Also, establishes a "licensed paramedic" as a new level of emergency services personnel. The act provides for certification and qualifications for certification. The act extends confidentiality provisions to an organized committee of emergency services trauma systems. The act also allows a level 5 trauma center designation for trauma care facilities.

Tex. Health & Safety Code § 773.045(b)-(f) (1997) requires air ambulance companies based in this state or companies based in other states which transport patients on flights originating in this state to be licensed by the Texas Department of Health as emergency medical services providers. A licensed company is required to include information regarding the location of the company's base operations in any advertising by the company in this state and is not prohibited from listing those locations in advertising, provided that all statutory requirements have been met. A company that is not located in this state but advertises within the state is required to have at least one physical location in the state. The act clarifies that an air transportation provider is not required to be licensed if, in addition to its normal service, it provides only voluntary, mercy-flight transportation at the company's own expense.

Tex. Health & Safety Code § 773.122 et seq. (1997) creates the emergency medical services and trauma care system fund, composed of money appropriated to the credit of the fund, including 9-1-1 emergency service fee revenue. From the fund, the Legislature may appropriate money to the Texas Department of Health for specific purposes, except that the commissioner of health must maintain a reserve of $500,000 for emergencies. Of the remainder after reserve subtraction, at least 70 percent is used to fund supplies, operational expenses, education and training, equipment, vehicles, and communications systems for local emergency medical services.

Tex. Health & Safety Code § 773.171 et seq. (1993) directs the Department of Health to develop a statewide pediatric emergency services system based on recommendations from a seven member advisory board appointed by the commissioner of health.   Establishes additional duties of the advisory board.

Texas Health and Safety Code § 780.001 et seq. (2005) relates to the operations of and the funding mechanisms for emergency medical services and trauma facility care in this state. (HB 2470)

U.S. Virgin Islands

 

Utah

Utah Code Ann. § 26-8a-205 (1994) requires the department to establish a pediatric care quality improvement program.

Utah Code Ann. § 26-8a-405, 405.1, 405.2, and 405.3 (2004, 2005) clarifies the procurement procedures that must be followed by a political subdivision issuing a request for proposal for emergency 911 ambulance services. (SB 91), (SB 216)

Utah Code Ann. 26-8a-414 (2004) modifies the Municipal Code and the Health Code by amending provisions related to emergency medical services provided by municipalities. (HB 225)

Vermont

 

Virginia

Va. Code § 8.01-225, 32.1-111.4, and 54.1-3408 (2003) requires the Board of Health's regulations on certification of emergency medical services technicians to allow certain levels of EMTs to possess and administer epinephrine in emergency cases of anaphylactic shock. Clarifying amendments are added to the Good Samaritan law and to the Drug Control Act to reinforce this authorization. (SB 1224)

Va. Code 15.2-955 (2005) each locality shall seek to ensure that emergency medical services are maintained throughout the entire locality. (HB 2521)

Va. Code § 32.1-111.10 (2005) discusses the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board, including membership and duties.  In 2005, Board membership increased from 25 to 28 by including one representative from each of the regional emergency medical services councils. (HB 2522), (SB 1145)

Va. Code § 32.1-111.1, 32.1-111.3, and 32.1-111.6 (1998, 2004) relates to ambulance permits and federal requirements, defines key terms for the chapter.  Requires the Commissioner of Health to issue permits or licenses for emergency medical services agencies and vehicles as needed to ensure compliance with federal regulations relating to reimbursement of ambulance services pursuant to Medicare and Medicaid.  In addition, requires the Board of Health to develop and maintain a statewide prehospital and interhospital trauma triage plan as a component of the Statewide Emergency Medical Services Plan to provide rapid access to appropriate trauma care for pediatric and adult trauma patients. Virginia system of emergency care is to include a statewide Emergency Medical Services for Children Program.(2004 HB 627), (2004 SB 1146)

Va. Code § 32.1-116.1 and 32.1-127.1:03 (2003) establishes guidelines for the statewide trauma registry, and aims to improve patient services and quality of care. States patient privacy regulations. Also, authorizes licensed emergency medical services agencies to disclose prehospital patient care reports to law-enforcement officials upon request (i) when the patient is the victim of a crime or (ii) when the patient is in the custody of the law-enforcement officials and has received emergency medical services or has refused emergency medical services.

Va. Code § 38.2-4312.3 (1997) provides members of health maintenance organizations (HMOs) with access to a system of 24-hour emergency services. This act directs HMOs to provide either 24-hour access to medical care or 24-hour access by telephone to a physician or licensed health professional with appropriate medical training. HMOs must reimburse hospital emergency facilities for medical screening and stabilization rendered to meet the requirements of the Federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act under certain conditions.

Va. Code § 46.2-694 (2004) relates to the distribution of the Four For Life Fund of the funds collected from registration of commercial and personal motor vehicles. Provides funding for emergency medical services, emergency medical personnel training and recruitment of volunteer emergency medical personnel.

Va. Code § 54.1-2969 (2000) requires that whenever delay in providing medical or surgical treatment to a minor may adversely affect such minor's recovery and no person authorized in this section to consent to such treatment for such minor is available within a reasonable time under the circumstances, no liability shall be imposed upon qualified emergency medical services personnel at the scene of an accident, fire or other emergency, a licensed health professional or a licensed hospital by reason of lack of consent to such medical or surgical treatment. However, in the case of a minor fourteen years of age or older who is physically capable of giving consent, such consent shall be obtained first. Whenever delay in providing transportation to a minor from the scene of an accident, fire or other emergency prior to hospital admission may adversely affect such minor's recovery and no person authorized in this section to consent to such transportation for such minor is available within a reasonable time under the circumstances, no liability shall be imposed upon emergency medical services personnel by reason of lack of consent to such transportation. However, in the case of a minor fourteen years of age or older who is physically capable of giving consent, such consent shall be obtained first.

Va. Code § 56.484.12 and 56.484.17 (2003, 2004) defines key terms within this section.  Also, specifies how CMRS providers can collect the wireless E-911 surcharge. Under the current statute, the surcharge is defined as a monthly charge billed monthly. Because prepaid wireless is not billed monthly, the bill provides that the surcharge may be collected either through monthly billing, adding the surcharge at the point of sale, or deducting an equivalent number of minutes. Amended in 2004 to modify the payment schedule. (SB 942), (SB 171)

Va. Code § 57-60 (2004) provides an exemption for regional emergency medical services councils from the registration requirements that charitable organizations soliciting contributions must satisfy. Such organizations will still be subject to the remaining provisions concerning solicitation found in Chapter 5 of Title 57 of the Code of Virginia. (SB 61)

Washington

 

West Virginia

W. Va. Code § 5-16-8 (1998) provides a detailed and standardized definition of emergency services under the types of services required for public employees. The definition for emergency services includes services provided in or by an ambulance and other prehospital services to the extent necessary to screen and stabilize the covered person. The act provides detailed procedures for the coverage of emergency services, including a prudent layperson standard for use in determining if coverage should be provided.

W. Va. Code § 16-4C-5 (2005) establishes the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council, including membership and duties. (SB 281)

W. Va. Code § 24-6-6b (1997) establishes a wireless enhanced 911 fee to help offset the cost to counties for their 911 emergency telephone systems. The fee is set at $3 per month for each valid retail commercial mobile radio service subscription. 

W. Va. Code § 33-25-8d (1996)

W. Va. Code § 33-25A-8d (1996) requires health insurance policies within health maintenance organizations to include coverage for emergency services, with the same deductibles, coinsurance and other limitations as apply to other covered services. Preauthorization or precertification may not be required.

requires health insurance policies within health care corporations to include coverage for emergency services, with the same deductibles, coinsurance and other limitations as apply to other covered services. Preauthorization or precertification may not be required.

Wisconsin

Wis. Stat. § 15.197(25) and 256.25 (1998) creates within the Department of Health and Family Services a trauma advisory council, including membership and duties. This trauma council was utilized to establish the statewide trauma care system.

Wis. Stat. § 40.51(8), 40.51(8m), 60.23(25), 66.184, 120.13(2)(g), 185.981(4t), 185.983(1), 111.91(2)(o) and 632.85 (1998) states that if a health care plan or a self-insured health plan provides coverage of any emergency medical services, the plan shall provide coverage of emergency medical services that are provided in a hospital emergency facility and that are needed to evaluate or stabilize an emergency medical condition. A health care plan or a self-insured health plan that is required to provide such coverage may not require prior authorization for the provision or coverage of the emergency medical services.

Wyoming

 

 

Source:  National Conference of State Legislatures, 2008.
Note: List may not be comprehensive, but is representative of state laws that exist. NCSL appreciates additions and corrections.

NCSL Resources

State Laws on Heart Attacks, Cardiac Arrest and Defibrillators

Maternal and Child Health: Snapshot for Legislators
This booklet is intended to help legislators and legislative staff gain a better understanding of issues, resources and programs related to maternal and child health. June 2004.

Emergency Medical Services In Rural Areas: How Can States Ensure Their Effectiveness
This brief discusses various aspects of emergency medical services in rural areas, including costs and financing, recruiting and training personnel and access to services. August 2000.

Shocks That Save Lives
State Legislatures, October/November 1999.

Emergency Medical Services For Children
LegisBrief (Vol. 6, Number 9), February 1998. 

Other Resources

Emergency Department Utilization and Capacity
A policy brief from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, July 2009.

Maternal and Child Health Library
An often-updated library of resources on many MCH topics.

Emergency Medical Services
The journal of emergency care, rescue, and transportation.

EMSC National Resource Center 
EMSC is a national initiative designed to reduce child and youth disability and death due to severe illness and injury. It is a federal grant program that supports state and local action related to emergency medical services for children.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
NHTSA's mission is to save lives, prevent injuries and reduce traffic-related health care and other economic costs. They develop and enhance comprehensive emergency medical service system to care for injured patients. 

This site is made possible by project, MCU 1 H03 MC 00017, from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (Title V, Social Security Act), Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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Denver Office
Tel: 303-364-7700 | Fax: 303-364-7800 | 7700 East First Place | Denver, CO 80230

 

Washington Office
Tel: 202-624-5400 | Fax: 202-737-1069 | 444 North Capitol Street, N.W., Suite 515 | Washington, D.C. 20001

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