The EMS standards void begins to be filled
Marathon meetings in Cincinnati during May moved the American Society for Testing and Materials closer to issuing the first set of independent standards for emergency medical services. The panels considered both positive and negative comments on proposed standards for EMS equipment; terminology; and personnel, education, and training for all levels of prehospital care providers.
Fifty-five standards are in the ballot process, and many of them will be revised based on the comments already received. Two are likely to go to a vote of the ASTM’s members at the end of the summer. One covers EMS structures and responsibilities at various levels, the other outlines the authorities and responsibilities of institutions providing medical direction.
The very first ASTM standard for EMS, on training for the EMT basic, came out last December.
There’s still time for interested parties to become involved in the standard-writing process, and the ASTM encourages participation by mail. You need not be a member. For more information, contact Anne McKlindon, Staff Manager, ASTM, 1916 Race St., Philadelphia, PA 19103.
