H.R. 978 would recognize and clarify the authority of the States to regulate intrastate helicopter medical services pursuant to their authority over public health planning and protection, patient safety and protection, emergency medical services, the quality and coordination of medical care, and the practice of medicine within their jurisdictions.
Detailed Summary
Helicopter Medical Services Patient Safety, Protection, and Coordination Act - Authorizes states to regulate helicopter medical services with respect to: (1) the medical qualifications and training of helicopter medical personnel, except that a state shall not impose new or additional requirements on a pilot; and (2) the obligation of providers of helicopter medical services to comply with a state's health planning, patient safety, and medical service requirements.<br>
Authorizes states to regulate the following aspects of helicopter medical services to the extent that state regulations are harmonized with relevant federal operating requirements: (1) the designation of destinations for emergency patient transport; (2) the specification of service requirements with respect to geographic areas within a state or during specified hours and days; (3) the coordination of flight requests for emergency helicopter medical services; and (4) compliance with accreditation requirements.
Authorizes states to regulate the following aspects of helicopter medical services to the extent that state regulations are consistent with relevant federal operating requirements: (1) the necessary medical equipment to be carried on board or affixed to the helicopter; (2) the physical attributes of the helicopter necessary for the provision of quality medical care and for the protection of helicopter and ground medical personnel; and (3) specified communication capabilities between helicopter personnel and emergency medical services and public safety personnel and between the flight crew and helicopter medical personnel.
Status of the Legislation
Latest Major Action: 2/12/2009: Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Aviation.
Points in Favor
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Points Against
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Visitor Comments
Johnedd
February 24, 2009, 5:05pm (report abuse)This is a terrible bill. This would allow metro area air services dictate the industry by allowing them to control where and what type of aircraft could be used. This is a definite attempt to socialize one aspect of healthcare. This bill could prove to be detrimental to people who choose to live in rural America. Please don't let the air services or the trauma centers in Pittsburgh ruin healthcare for rural America.
bubba
February 24, 2009, 10:32pm (report abuse)bravo sierra-people in rural america are not underserved by medical helicopters
BH
February 25, 2009, 3:07pm (report abuse)If you have issues with this bill, call your local congressman and oppose this bill!!!
Find your local rep at
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home
J
February 28, 2009, 8:16am (report abuse)This bill is an attempt by the air transport services currently operating in states to prevent new services from coming in. It is an attempt to prevent competetition. We should oppose this bill!