This guide suggests methods for organizing and operating state, regional, and local EMS systems, in accordance with Guide F 1086. It will assist state, regional, or local organizations in assessing, planning, documenting, and implementing their specific operations. The guide is general in nature and able to be adapted for existing EMS Systems. For organizations that are establishing EMS System operations, the guide is specific enough to form the basis of the operational manual.

1.1 This standard established guidelines for the organization and operation of Emergency Medical Services Systems (EMSS) at the state, regional and local levels. This guide will identify methods of developing state standards, coordinating/managing regional EMS Systems, and delivering emergency medical services through the local EMS System.

1.1.1 At the state level this guide identifies scope, methods, procedures and participants in the following state structure responsibilities: (a) establishment of EMS legislation; (b) development of minimum standards; (c) enforcement of minimum standards; (d) designation of substate structure; (e) provision of technical assistance; (f) identification of funding and other resources for the development, maintenance, and enhancement of EMS systems; (g) development and implementation of training systems; (h) development and implementation of communication systems; (i) development and implementation of record-keeping and evaluation systems; (j) development and implementation of public information, public education, and public relations programs; (k) development and implementation of acute care center designation; (l) development and implementation of a disaster medical system; (m) overall coordination of EMS and related programs within the state and in concert with other states or federal authorities.

1.2 At the regional level, this guide identifies methods of planning, implementing, coordinating/managing, and evaluating the emergency medical services system which exists within a natural catchment area and provides guidance on the use of these methods.

1.3 At the local level, this guide identifies a basic structure for the organization and management of a local EMS system and outlines the responsibilities that a local EMS should assume in the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of its EMS system.