EMS System Review - State of New Jersey

State of New Jersey, DHSS, OEMSConsulting Services: EMS System ReviewIt was difficult to determine the accuracy of this statement, but the need for more EMTinstructors will likely be a reality. If the state supports the recommendation for a minimum oftwo EMTs on each ambulance, then additional training programs may be necessary, requiringadditional EMT instructors. NJOEMS believes that the current infrastructure will be able tohandle the additional burden.Recommendation 15: NJOEMS should attempt to formally determine how manyadditional EMT classes and EMT Instructors will be needed to reach this goal.Another educational issue is the oversight and quality of EMT Continuing Education. Allcontinuing education programs must be approved by NJOEMS in order for students to receivecredit and for institutions to receive training fund money. While this process should providequality management, state officials are bogged down with paperwork instead of being able tomonitor and observe continuing education programs. There is also concern that state trainingfund reimbursement opportunities have created an “industry” that has allowed for reimbursementto supersede quality. For example, there were claims by several focus groups that some programsmay offer little more than pencil whipping or just show up instead of pertinent educationalprograms with performance requirements. We were not presented with specific evidence, butanecdotal information appeared reliable enough to give this issue some credence. If NJOEMSchooses to adopt a regional plan, efforts can be targeted toward increased quality management ofcontinuing education.Recommendation 16: If a regional plan is adopted, move oversight of continuingeducation to the regional level. Also consider adopting policies that allow regional/countyacademies the authority to approve continuing education, with the NJOEMS providing qualitymanagement.Public Education – As a component of health promotion is used to advise the public ofEMS system capabilities, how to activate, and proper use. The focus groups discussed 19 ideaswith the top five being:1. State public relations PR plan – This item was clearly the top priority for the focusgroups as local agencies look for guidance and support in this effort. The challenge oftime also plays into this as when human and fiscal resources are challenged, publiceducation tends to suffer. The NJOEMS presently provides public educationprograms based on financial and human resource availability. Several programs underthe EMS-C grants have provided the public with insight into New Jersey EMS.Recommendation 17: The NJOEMS should create a state EMS public relations plan.2. Identify financial resources – Many EMS programs provide public educationprograms provided that financial means are available. Often, a steady flow of moneyTriData, a Division of 59September 2007System Planning Corporation