Medical Direction

Medical Direction Overview

“Medical direction” means the written or verbal authorization of a physician that is required prior to the performance of pre-hospital emergency medical services by EMS providers (emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians, advanced emergency medical technicians or paramedics).

In accordance with section 4765.41 of the Ohio Revised Code, the medical director of each emergency medical service organization shall establish written protocols to be followed by EMS providers in performing emergency medical services. The medical director for an EMS organization may limit, but not exceed, the EMS Scope of Practice as established by the State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services (EMFTS) for EMS providers who provide emergency medical services under the auspices of the physician's certificate to practice medicine and surgery, or osteopathic medicine and surgery, issued under Chapter 4731of the Ohio Revised Code. In addition, the protocols shall be consistent with applicable trauma triage protocols adopted under division (A) or approved under division (B)(2) of section 4765.40 of the Ohio Revised Code.

In order to serve as the medical director for an EMS organization, a physician shall meet the requirements as set forth in rule 4765-3-05 of the Ohio Administrative Code.

In accordance with section 4765.42 of the Ohio Revised Code, each emergency medical service organization shall give notice of the name of its medical director to the EMFTS Board. The notice shall be made in writing. Any change in medical direction shall be provided to the EMFTS Board as well.