Local Councils - The primary legal responsibility of a Local
Council, as defined by RCW and WAC, is to recommend individuals to DOH
for appointment to Regional Councils. Recommendations
should best facilitate a regional council made up of a balance of
hospital and prehospital trauma care and EMS providers, local elected
officials, consumers, local law enforcement representatives, and local
government agencies involved in the delivery of trauma care and
emergency medical services.
A county or group of counties may create a local EMS
and Trauma Care council. Many Local Councils have been
created by county ordinances which often broadens their
responsibilities.
Local Councils often serve as the
"operational" branch of the EMS/Trauma System in many
aspects except direct provision of patient care. Working closely with
the County Medical Program Directors, many are actively involved in
initial and continuing training of personnel. Some also sponsor public
education, EMS/TC awareness, and prevention programs. For
some local councils these activities may be relatively few.
Financial resources and the time volunteer members can devote to
various projects may be limited. Other local councils contract
with county government or similar organizations. The council may
then assume full responsibility for operating the entire EMS and
trauma system in their area. The legislation which created local
councils does not restrict their activities to those specifically
mentioned in the law.
Local councils review, evaluate
and provide recommendations to the regional EMS and Trauma Care
council regarding the provision of EMS and trauma care in the region
and provide recommendations to the regional council on the plan for
delivery of EMS and trauma care in the region.
Apply
to be a member of your Regional EMS and Trauma Care Council
Complete the Regional
Council Membership Application to be considered for an appointment
on your Regional EMS and Trauma Care Council.
