Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB65

Introduced
3/7/23  

Caption

In emergency medical services system, further providing for emergency medical responders, for emergency medical technicians, for advanced emergency medical technicians and for paramedics.

Impact

The amendment to Title 35 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes will affect the operational procedures for certification of emergency medical personnel. By shifting the responsibility of administering examinations to accredited EMS educational institutes, the bill is expected to enhance training standards and responsiveness within the emergency medical services (EMS) sector. This change aims to bolster the workforce and improve the readiness of emergency medical responders to address public health needs efficiently.

Summary

House Bill 65 focuses on amending regulations concerning emergency medical services in Pennsylvania. The bill aims to streamline the certification processes for emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), advanced EMTs, and paramedics. By allowing an EMS educational institute to administer certification examinations, the legislation intends to ensure that more candidates meet the necessary qualifications for these critical roles in emergency medical services. This adjustment reflects a growing need for efficient certification pathways in response to rising demands in healthcare services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding HB 65 seems to be positive among healthcare professionals and legislative supporters. They argue that the changes are necessary for keeping pace with evolving standards in emergency medical training. Proponents believe that enhancing the certification process will lead to a more competent workforce capable of delivering high-quality emergency care. However, there are concerns that shifting responsibility could lead to inconsistencies in training if not regulated properly, echoing some caution among critics focusing on the potential risks of dependency on external educational institutes.

Contention

A potential point of contention lies in the operational implications of relocating certification authority. Critics may voice concerns regarding the quality control of training provided by different educational institutes and whether this will result in uniform standards across the state. Additionally, questions about the adequacy of oversight for these institutes in terms of curriculum quality and examination rigor could emerge as notable debates if the bill progresses. The efficacy of the implementation, especially within diverse local contexts, will also likely be scrutinized.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB73

In emergency medical services system, further providing for emergency medical responders, for emergency medical technicians, for emergency medical services vehicle operators and for advanced life support ambulances.

PA HB2659

In emergency medical services system, further providing for emergency medical responders, for emergency medical technicians, for emergency medical services vehicle operators and for advanced life support ambulances.

PA HB395

In emergency medical services system, further providing for emergency medical responders.

PA S4014

Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.

PA AB1650

Emergency medical services: community paramedicine.

PA AB2859

Emergency medical technicians: peer support.

PA HB10007

Paramedic and Emergency Medical Technician Relief Act of 2024

PA HB2589

Emergency medical technicians; military reciprocity

PA S08111

Provides for retirement credit to emergency medical technicians and advanced emergency medical technicians for a child care leave of absence.

PA SB534

Modifies provisions relating to emergency medical technicians

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.