Ryan White Extension Signed into Law

On Oct. 30, President Obama signed into law S. 1793, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment and Extension Act of 2009, reinstating the 48-hour first responder notification provisions that were dropped in 2006.

 

Of some concern to emergency responders, however, the act says, “In any case in which the Secretary determines that, wholly or partially as a result of a public health emergency that has been determined pursuant to section 319(a), individuals or public or private entities are unable to comply with the requirements of this part, the Secretary may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, temporarily suspend, in whole or in part, the requirements of this part as the circumstances reasonably require.”

 

Another provision requires the HHS secretary to, within 180 days, develop a list of the “potentially life-threatening infectious diseases, including emerging infectious diseases, to which emergency response employees may be exposed in responding to emergencies.” The list would be used to determine whether an exposure notification is required.

 

No-Bid Ambulance Contract Riles Henry County (KY)

Henry County officials have approved a transition to a private EMS provider, leaving some residents and emergency responders with concerns.
Paramedics with man on stretcher in ambulance, showing low angle view.

Most NY First Responders Experience Mental Health Challenges, Survey Finds

A survey of more than 6,000 first responders in New York found most experience stress, while others have dealt with anxiety and burnout due to their professions.