EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy
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By EMS Coordinator Mike McEvoy, Ph.D., NRP, RN, CCRN
NYSAFC EMS Committee
New DOH Policy Statements
The New York State Bureau of EMS and Trauma recently posted new policy statements on its website. Policy Statement #17-02 on Epi Auto-Injectors clarifies some very significant changes in New York state law regarding EpiPens. Requirements have been significantly relaxed for use of these devices. However, it does not address the continued use of the Check & Inject NY (epi syringe kits for BLS providers). Policy Statement #17-03 addresses use of Ketamine by ALS agencies. You can view or download DOH policy statements here.
Collaborative Protocols Released
The New York Collaborative EMS Protocols, which once fully in effect will cover all of New York state except New York City and Nassau, have rolled out in app format. Of note, while the protocols include BLS interventions, a series of emails between Department of Health Director Lee Burns and upstate New York EMS services seem to suggest a bit of caution for EMTs. Burns advises, "Please be advised that Basic Life Support providers are required by regulation (800.15) to follow the published New York State – Statewide BLS Protocols, the current version of which is at www.health.ny.gov/professionals/ems/protocol.htm." You can bet this will be a topic of discussion at the next State EMS Council meeting.
Upcoming CME Opportunities
Some upcoming conferences offering continuing education opportunities include:
- Initial Assessment EMS Conference in Lake Placid, May 18-21
- NYSAFC 111th Annual Conference & FIRE 2017 Expo at Turning Stone Resort, June 14-17
- Pulse Check in Albany, September 21-24
- Vital Signs in Rochester, October 25-29
