Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF2148

Introduced

1/30/24

Introduced

1/30/24

Refer

1/30/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the provision of emergency medical services by a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon and the definition of first responder.

Impact

The implementation of SF2148 is expected to influence how emergency medical services are structured across the state. By recognizing physicians as eligible to staff emergency medical programs based on documented training and skills, the bill aims to improve access to emergency medical care. This shift could potentially lead to a greater demand for trained medical professionals within the emergency services sector, enhancing the overall efficacy of medical responses during emergencies.

Summary

Senate File 2148 focuses on the provision of emergency medical services by physicians and osteopathic physicians, specifically addressing staffing requirements for medical care ambulance services and nontransport services. This bill allows licensed physicians to staff these services as long as they can document their equivalency through education and skills training, which must be reviewed and accepted by the medical director of the service program in accordance with established state regulations. By officially including these physicians as first responders, the bill aims to enhance the capacity and capability of emergency medical responses within the state.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SF2148 may arise from discussions about the adequacy of training and the impact on existing first responder roles. Critics could argue that the expansion of the definition of first responders to include physicians may blur the lines of responsibility and training among various emergency service providers. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on medical directors and service programs to evaluate and approve physicians' qualifications, as well as the potential for liability issues stemming from expanded responsibilities.

Companion Bills

IA HF2258

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the provision of emergency medical services by a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon and the definition of first responder.(See HF 2507.)

IA HF2507

Previously Filed As

IA HF2411

A bill for an act relating to the provision of emergency medical services by a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon and the definition of first responder.

IA HF2258

A bill for an act relating to the provision of emergency medical services by a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon and the definition of first responder.(See HF 2507.)

IA HF2507

A bill for an act relating to the provision of emergency medical services by a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon and the definition of first responder. (Formerly HF 2258.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.