The South Dakota Department of Health has scheduled a June 6 hearing on the regulation of emergency medical responders (EMRs) and revised rules for emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
The hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. CDT at the Hayes Building, 600 E. Capitol Ave., Room 107.
The rules stem from the passage and signing of Senate Bill 48 out of the 2017 legislative session. The legislation adds another rung to the emergency medical services (EMS) career ladder with the establishment of EMR certification, requiring 60 hours of training as opposed to 180 hours for EMTs. EMRs are certified to provide simple, noninvasive care focused on lifesaving interventions for critical patients, rendering on-site emergency care while awaiting additional EMS response from an EMT or higher-level personnel.
South Dakota is joining some 30 states, including North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska, in certifying EMRs.
Click here for the EMR/EMT listing on the South Dakota Administrative Rules website.
Those interested in presenting data, opinions or arguments can do so by appearing in person at the hearing or sending a letter to the South Dakota Department of Health, 600 E. Capitol Ave., Pierre, SD 57501. Material sent by mail must reach the department by June 16 to be considered.
