Improving Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in the United States Through Improved and Centralized Federal Coordination
Abstract
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is an important discipline in the arena of first responders. Unlike other first response disciplines, EMS does not have strong representation at the federal level. This thesis argues that representation is necessary and identifies the federal agency in which it should reside. Current federal agencies that have a role in EMS are evaluated. These agencies include the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS) and Health and Human Services. These agencies are evaluated to determine where the federal oversight for EMS should be placed. Existing overlaps are shown. EMS strategy needs are conveyed by examining the components of interest-based strategy and identifying EMS as a megacommunity. The application of megacommunity components identifies what needs to be eliminated and reduced combined with what issues need to be raised and how this will create a stronger network for EMS support for both everyday needs and in times of national disaster. The recommendation is made that the federal oversight of EMS be a newly created office of United States EMS Administration (USEMSA) within the Department of Health and Human Services. The recommendation includes what should be considered in forming the USEMSA.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA543287
Entities
People
- Leeanna Mims
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School