Support for Missouri Senate Bill 107 and EMS Peer Review

A bill that will have a positive impact on Missouri’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers is currently under consideration in the state legislature. On February 11, the bill – Missouri Senate Bill 107, or SB 107 – was approved by the Emerging Issues and Professional Registration Committee and returned to the senate for further debate.

SB 107 establishes critical provisions to enhance peer review processes for EMS teams. This legislation represents a significant step forward in promoting the highest standards of care and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within Missouri's EMS system.

The bill was introduced by State Senator Justin Brown, a Republican from District 16. All six counties in Brown’s district are classified as rural, as are the vast majority of counties in the state of Missouri. Because rural areas pose extra challenges for EMS providers, including a scarcity of hospitals and lengthy transportation distances, it’s important that ambulance crews have all of the tools they need to deliver timely, life-saving care.

SB 107 helps EMS teams by redefining them under state law, granting them the official status of “health care professionals.” It also characterizes EMS quality improvement efforts as the work of “peer review committees.” These changes may seem small, but they will allow EMS providers to conduct more productive reviews and assessments going forward. The end result? Better emergency care for the people of Missouri.

Inclusion of EMS Providers in Peer Review Statutes

SB 107 amends the definition of "health care professional" to explicitly include EMS providers licensed under state law. This ensures that EMS personnel receive the same legal protections and considerations as other healthcare professionals during peer review processes.

Recognition of Quality Improvement Activities

Quality assurance and improvement activities required of EMS providers will now be officially recognized as functions of peer review committees. This recognition provides legal safeguards for these essential activities, encouraging honest evaluations and actionable improvements.

Extension of Immunity Protections

The bill extends immunity from civil liabilities to EMS providers participating in peer review activities. This provision fosters a safe environment for open and candid discussions, without fear of legal repercussions, ultimately benefiting patients and providers alike.

Benefits for Patients and Providers

By including EMS providers in the scope of peer review protections and recognizing their quality improvement efforts, SB 107 will enhance patient outcomes, increase accountability, and support the professional development of EMS personnel. These changes underscore Missouri’s commitment to improving emergency medical care and ensuring public safety.

We respectfully urge our colleagues to support this vital legislation. Please reach out to your state legislators ad urge them to support this bill. Your leadership and advocacy for SB 107 will have a lasting positive impact on EMS providers and the communities they serve.