It’s a historical day for EMS in Washington state, as a bill that will allow community paramedicine has been signed into law.
In the 1960—70s, laws were built as framework for EMS in this country state by state.
Those of us in the industry are well aware our systems have evolved dramatically, and often our work doesn’t reflect what’s written in current law. The need for community paramedicine is a great example of the need to change the law for the betterment of the citizens we serve.
When Snohomish County Fire District 1 set out to launch a community paramedic program a few years ago, many told us, “It’s against the law.” Law-abiding citizens typically hear this and stop moving forward with the idea. I believe more of us need to rethink this conditioned response. If the law is wrong or outdated, there is a third alternative: Change the law.
What specifically was against the law in our state? An EMT or paramedic could only deliver care in emergency situations. We know many of our calls today aren’t an emergency, but the patient is in need of non-emergency medical or social assistance. So in 2014 we set out to change the law in Washington with the help of a pro-bono advocate Vicki Christopherson and an advocate from the Washington State Council of Firefighters, Geoff Simpson. We quickly formed a team from different areas of our state running different EMS deployment models: John Sinclair, 2nd VP of the IAFC and Kittitas Valley Fire Chief; Cindy Button, director of Aero Methow Rescue Service and representing rural non-profit EMS; Brian Schaeffer and Mike Lopez of Spokane Fire; Russ McCallion of East Pierce Fire Rescue; and state nurses, home health and hospital associations.
After an incredible amount of work and collaboration, including many trips to our state capitol, a bill will be signed into law by the governor today. This will allow EMS to serve our citizens outside of emergencies and legitimize community paramedicine as an integral part of the healthcare solution in Washington State. It should be noted that fewer than five states have changed law to allow for community paramedicine. There were 2,400 bills submitted to the Washington State legislature this session and only 5% will be signed into law. It’s not an easy process. However, with a lot of passion and perseverance, it’s possible to change the history of EMS.