Bill > SB964

This bill modifies the existing law regarding community paramedics by first defining "community paramedic services" as specialized healthcare services provided by licensed paramedics who are certified by the state department, operate in non-emergency settings, and follow specific medical protocols. The bill establishes new requirements for certification, including that a community paramedic must be currently licensed as a paramedic, complete an approved certification program, and submit an application to the department. The legislation also introduces more detailed guidelines for how community paramedics can operate, including provisions for providing services across different ambulance service areas. Specifically, ambulance services must now obtain a memorandum of understanding when providing community paramedic services in another service area, notify local ambulance services of their activities, and coordinate with existing services to avoid duplication. The bill requires community paramedics to practice under protocols established by a medical director and collaborate with physicians, advanced practice nurses, or physician assistants when developing patient care plans. Additionally, the bill gives the state department authority to establish regulations for recognizing community paramedic service entities and issue five-year endorsements to qualifying organizations, with the overall goal of creating a more structured and coordinated approach to community paramedic services.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=637