Action | Amend current regulations to include new regulations as a result of legislative changes and changes in the practice of EMS. |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 3/19/2010 |
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Twenty-four hours is an unacceptable time frame to go without any documentation by EMS providers. Poor communication is often cited as a contributing factor to medical errors, leading JCAHO to include patient handoff communication as a national patient safety goal. Although EMS providers provide a brief verbal report, the written document frequently provides additional details that are important in the development of the plan of care for the individual patient. The EMS report is a vital part of the medical record and should be regarded as such, by changing the regulations to require EMS agencies provide written documentation before they leave the facility.