Legislation passed unanimously today by the Senate would maintain access to medical care in rural areas by broadening the types of service that may be performed by emergency medical technicians (EMTs) with advanced certification.
SB 5940, sponsored by Sen. Kevin Van De Wege (D-Lake Sutherland), would increase workforce stability at local hospitals while also encouraging the hiring of local volunteer EMTs with advanced training into permanent, well-paying jobs.
“Our rural communities have a need, and we have professionals capable of filling that need,” Van De Wege said. “Tapping the specialized skills of highly trained EMTs will ensure access to medical services that keep our communities healthy.”
SB 5940 would create a medical assistant-EMT certification for EMTs with advanced EMT certification or paramedic certification, qualifying them to perform an expanded range of medical care under the supervision of a medical practitioner. The program would increase job opportunities for EMTs currently volunteering in rural areas while ensuring a stable workforce capable of providing dependable medical care.
“Allowing all levels of emergency medical technicians and paramedics to work in acute care hospitals will help ensure communities have access to hospital and emergency medical services, even in the most rural areas,” said Cassie Sauer, president and CEO of the Washington State Hospital Association. “It represents a common-sense approach to bolstering the hospital workforce, retaining emergency service personnel and ensuring safe patient transitions.”
