Interstate Commission Adopts Privilege to Practice Code of Conduct and Establishes Advisory Committees
Washington, D.C. – The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, the governing body overseeing interstate EMS clinician practice in the United States, convened on October 16, 2024, to adopt significant measures that will shape the future of EMS mobility and professional standards.
In a unanimous decision, the Commission adopted the Privilege to Practice Code of Conduct Position Paper, which establishes clear, uniform expectations for EMS clinicians operating under the EMS Compact across member states. The Code of Conduct sets a standard for professionalism and ethical behavior, ensuring that clinicians uphold the highest standards while delivering patient care in multiple jurisdictions. The Commission also referred the Code of Conduct to the Administrative Rules Committee for potential inclusion in the Compact’s administrative rules framework, underscoring its significance.
Further strengthening collaboration within the EMS community, the Commission approved the creation of two new advisory committees. The first advisory committee will include representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and EMS associations, while the second will focus on increased collaboration with federal government officials. These committees will serve as vital platforms for gathering feedback from stakeholders to ensure that the Compact is implemented in a way that supports the nearly 400,000 EMS clinicians across the 24 member states. Their role will also include educating stakeholders and helping to ensure uniformity in applying the Compact.
Following the meeting, Donnie Woodyard, Jr., Executive Director of the EMS Compact, emphasized: “The adoption of the Privilege to Practice Code of Conduct and the creation of these advisory committees are pivotal steps in ensuring EMS clinicians are equipped to provide the highest level of care, regardless of where they are called to serve. The Commission is committed to fully operationalizing the Compact so that EMS clinicians enjoy the same professional mobility as their nurse, physician, and physical therapy colleagues. By engaging with stakeholders directly, we are ensuring that the EMS Compact remains both effective and responsive to the real-world needs of clinicians.”
In addition to these key developments, the Commission re-elected its leadership team to guide the ongoing work of the EMS Compact:
- Kraig Kinney (IN), Chair
- Brad Vande Lune (IA), Treasurer
- Aaron Koehler (WY), Commissioner At Large
These leaders will continue to guide the Commission’s efforts to enhance the mobility of EMS clinicians across the United States, ensuring consistent and reliable EMS care delivery, especially during emergencies.
The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice serves as the governmental body responsible for the oversight and facilitation of interstate EMS clinician practice. Comprised of governor-appointed commissioners from each Compact member state, the Commission ensures that all member states' voices are represented in setting policies that improve EMS mobility and care across borders.
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