New Jersey Assembly Bill A4195

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/22
• Refer: 6/9/22

Caption

Requires DOH to develop Statewide Emergency Medical Services Plan.

Impact

The bill emphasizes a system that incorporates various aspects such as facilities, transportation, and communication in emergency medical services. It also aims to reduce the time it takes for patients to receive definitive treatment after identifying an acute illness or injury. Furthermore, the plan is designed to enhance the accessibility of high-quality emergency medical services for all citizens, ensuring no demographic is left underserved. Significant improvements in the training of EMS personnel, upgrade of health care service delivery, and enhancement in public health information will also be prioritized through this legislation.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4195 mandates the New Jersey Department of Health to develop a comprehensive Statewide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Plan. This plan is essential for creating a coordinated emergency medical services system that aims to significantly improve the delivery of emergency care throughout New Jersey. This legislation outlines both short-term and long-term objectives and includes the possibility of integrating regional emergency plans tailored specifically to the needs of local areas. County health boards, in collaboration with local boards of health, will play a vital role in the development of these regional plans, which upon approval, will become part of the statewide plan.

Contention

Potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of standardized metrics for evaluating EMS performance and the collection of patient care data. While proponents of the bill argue that a unified state plan could lead to better resource allocation and emergency response times, some may worry about the possible centralization of control, potentially diminishing local autonomy in how emergency services are delivered. Furthermore, the requirement for continuous training and the establishment of trauma and specialty care centers may create concerns around funding and resource availability for some regions.