Governor Blunt Eases State Mandates to Protect Access to Emergency Care

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 23, 2008

Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290


JEFFERSON CITY  Gov. Matt Blunt signed legislation that will allow ambulance services to continue in Bates, Cass, Henry, Johnson and St. Clair Counties.

"We must ensure that the resources we have to provide health care access are best-used," Gov. Blunt said. "The law I signed will ensure that ambulance districts who rely on volunteers are able to continue operating, while still ensuring that a certified medical professional is on board to care for a Missourian in need."

"These commonsense changes will help those responding to emergencies do so in an efficient and safe manner that fits local needs and the realities of a mostly volunteer work force in rural areas," Sen. Stouffer said. "It is a win-win for those needing assistance and the volunteers and departments trying to protect and serve."

SB 1044, sponsored by Senator Bill Stouffer, eases current mandates to allow any ambulances staffed by volunteers to have only one licensed emergency medical technician, registered nurse or physician on board. Most ambulances are required to be staffed with at least two licensed individuals when transporting a patient, except for certain counties permitted to have only one medical professional in attendance. The law signed extends that exception to all ambulances staffed by volunteers, regardless of the county.