6 CCR 1015-3
Section 1 - Purpose and Authority for Establishing Rules 1.1 The purpose of these rules is to replace the existing rules pertaining to emergency medical services with rules that will more adequately address: 1) current changes in pre-hospital emergency medical care, 2) the department recognition process for pre-hospital emergency medical care Training Centers and groups to assure standardized training, 3) the certification process for all levels of emergency medical technician, 4) disciplinary procedures for denial, revocation, limitation, or suspension of an individual's emergency medical technician certificate, 5) the collection of essential data related to the performance and needs of the emergency medical care system in Colorado, and 6) the minimum equipment required to be carried on each ambulance.
1.2 General Authority for the promulgation of these rules is set forth in C.R.S. 25-3.5-105.
1.3 These rules apply to and are controlling for: 1) qualified applicants that desire to be state recognized as a Training Center or Training Group for the purpose of conducting established training courses (25-3.5-201), 2) certification requirements for all persons who desire to be state certified as an emergency medical technician (25-3.5-203), 3) disciplinary procedures for denial, revocation, limitation, or suspension of an individual's emergency medical technician certificate, and 4) ambulance services, as defined in 25-3.5-103 (3), shall be governed by these rules for the provisions and maintenance of essential data and reporting requirements (25-3.5-501), and minimum essential equipment to be carried on ambulances (25-3.5-301(2)(a)). Section 2 - Definitions 2.1 All definitions which appear in C.R.S. 25-3.5-103 shall apply to these rules.
2.2 "Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) - A course of instruction sponsored by the American Heart Association designed to prepare students in the practice of advanced emergency cardiac care.
2.3 "Ambulance Transport Agency" - Any public agency, volunteer organization or commercial enterprise licensed as an ambulance service by the Board of County Commissioners of any Colorado county.
2.4 "Board of Medical Examiners Rules" - Rules adopted by the Board of Medical Examiners which establish responsibilities of physician advisors and all authorized acts of emergency medical technicians.
2.5 "Council" - State Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Advisory Council.
2.6 "Department" - Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
2.7 "Emergency call" - A real or self-perceived event where the EMS system is accessed by the 9-1-1 emergency access number or its local equivalent, or an interfacility transfer where the patient's health or well-being could be compromised if the patient is held at the originating facility indefinitely.
2.8 "EMD Training Group" - A public safety communications center, public safety agency, or EMS provider agency that has been formally recognized by the Department to conduct Emergency Medical Dispatcher Training curricula established by the Department in accordance with C.R.S. 25-3.5-201.
2.9 "Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B)" - An individual who holds a current and valid Emergency Medical Technician-Basic certificate issued by the Department.
2.12 "Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate (EMT-I)" - Any individual who holds a current and valid Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate certificate issued by the Department.
2.13 "Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P)" - An individual who holds a current and valid Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic certificate issued by the Department.
2.14 "Graduate EMT-Intermediate" - an individual who has successfully completed a Department recognized Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate training course but has not yet successfully completed the certification requirements set forth in these rules.
2.15 Graduate EMT-Paramedic" - An individual who has successfully completed a Department recognized EMT-Paramedic training course but has not yet successfully completed the certification requirements set forth in these rules.
2.16 "Medical Director" - a physician who holds an active Colorado medical license, who establishes protocols and standing orders for medical acts performed by department-certified EMTs of a prehospital EMS service agency and who is specifically identified as being responsible to assure the competency of the performance of those acts by such department-certified EMTs as described in the physician’s medical continuous quality improvement program. Any reference to a “physician advisor” in the state EMS rules or in the Board of Medical Examiners previously adopted rules shall apply to a “medical director” as defined in these rules.
2.17 "Physician Advisor" - A Colorado licensed physician who establishes protocols and standing orders for medical acts performed by EMT-Basics, EMT-Intermediates, or EMT-Paramedics of a prehospital emergency medical care service agency and who is specifically identified as being responsible to assure the competency of the performance of those acts by such EMT-Basics, EMT-Intermediates, or EMT-Paramedics.
2.18 "Refresher/Continuing Education" - A course of instruction designed to provide training to persons for the purpose of preparing them for renewal of certification. A course of instruction condensed over a short period of time is classified as a refresher course. The same course, or a self-directed program, extended over a period of three years which meets the educational requirements for renewal of certification is classified as Continuing Education.
2.19 "Training Center" - A university, college, vocational educational institution, or licensed hospital that has been formally recognized to conduct training courses for the purpose of preparing individuals for state certification or course completion certificates issued by the Department. Training Centers are eligible to apply for any or all of the specialized training courses specified in section 3.1.
2.20 "Training Course" - A series of lectures and other training activity that has been developed from curricula designed and developed by the Department in consultation with the Council and the Board of Medical Examiners.
2.21 "Training Course Policies" - Policies and procedures developed by the Department and the Council that provide the basis for proper instruction of specialized curricula to be conducted by the Training Center or Training Group.
2.22 "Training Group" - An EMS provider agency or organization that has been formally recognized by the Department to conduct training courses for the purpose of preparing individuals for renewal of certification as emergency medical technicians. Training Group is eligible for recognition to conduct training curricula for Emergency Medical Technician Refresher/Continuing Education Classes, Emergency Medical Technician - Basic -Intravenous Therapy, and Emergency Medical Technician-Basic-Defibrillator.
Section 3 - Recognition of Training Centers and Training Groups for the Purpose of Establishing Eligibility to Conduct Training Courses Which Prepare Individuals for State Certification.
3.1 Specialized Training Curricula
The Department, in accordance with 25-3.5-201, has established the following training curricula.
3.1.1 Emergency Medical Dispatcher-Provider (Initial and Refresher/Continuing Education
3.1.2 Emergency Medical Dispatcher-Instructor/Coordinator
3.1.3 Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (Initial and Refresher/Continuing Education)
3.1.4 Emergency Medical Technician-Basic-Intravenous Therapy (IV)
3.1.5 Emergency Medical Technician-Basic-Defibrillator
3.1.6 Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate (Initial and Continuing Education) 3.1.7 Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (Initial and Refresher/Continuing Education)
3.1.8 Emergency Medical Service-Instructor
3.2 Application for Recognition as a Training Center or Training Group.
To qualify the applicant must submit documentation containing the following:
3.2.1 An application form provided by the Department containing information deemed appropriate by the Department.
3.2.2 A narrative description for each level or levels of EMT training course or courses which the applicant is applying for recognition, the area to be served by the Training Center or Training Group, justification that the training course is needed within the area of service, and the approximate number of courses that will be conducted over the three year recognition period.
3.2.3 An agreement acknowledging the role of the Department in the recognition process and attesting to the fact that the applicant will conduct training courses that will be overseen by the Training Center or Training Group Medical Director and in conformance with training course policies established by the Department and Council.
3.2.4 A personnel roster, to include a curriculum vitae for the course coordinator and medical director and the names of the instructional staff.
3.2.5 A description of the facilities to be used for course didactic and clinical instruction and a listing of all training aids, and medical equipment necessary for the course.
3.2.6 Course policies and procedures, which at a minimum shall include:
a) admission requirements, b) attendance requirements, c) course schedule which details a breakdown of the didactic, clinical, skills evaluations and testing criteria of the training course, d) discipline/counseling of students, e) grievance procedures, f) successful course completion requirements, g) testing policies, h) tuition policy statement, i) infection control plan, j) description of insurance coverage for students, k) state practical examination policies, if applicable, and l) continuous quality improvement plan.
3.3 Application Procedures for Recognition as an EMD Training Group.
To qualify for recognition, the agency must submit the following:
3.3.1 An application form provided by the Department containing information deemed appropriate by the Department.
3.3.2 An agreement acknowledging the role of the Department in the recognition process and attesting to the fact that the applicant will conduct the programs in conformance with training course policies adopted by the Department and Council.
3.3.3 Name and qualifications of the instructor.
3.3.4 Course policies and procedures, that at a minimum shall include:
a) admission requirements, b) attendance requirements, c) course schedule which details a breakdown of the didactic, clinical, and testing criteria, d) discipline/counseling of students, e) grievance procedures, f) successful course completion requirements, g) testing policies, h) tuition policy statement, and i) continuous quality improvement plan
3.4 Emergency Medical Service Instructor Course.
3.4.1 The Department provides Emergency Medical Service Instructor training courses to prepare individuals as an Emergency Medical Services Instructor. Any educational institution or hospital may submit an application containing information deemed appropriate by the Department to conduct an Emergency Medical Services Instructor Course. Upon acceptance of the requirements specified in training course policies adopted by the Department and the Council, the applicant may conduct the instructor training course.
3.5 Procedure for Training Center, Training Group, and EMD Training Group Recognition. The Department will notify the applicant regarding the status of the application. This notification will either specify official recognition, indicate that a site visit is required, or identify deficiencies with the application.
3.5.1 If the notification specifies a site visit, the applicant should be prepared to introduce staff, faculty, medical director, and show all documentation, equipment, supplies and facilities.
3.5.2 Applications determined to be incomplete shall be returned to the applicant with a list specifying elements to be completed.
3.5.3 Official recognition shall be in written form from the Director of the Department or their designee, and shall be based upon proof that the applicant has met all application requirements, has demonstrated the ability to conduct training courses in compliance with training course policies, has the necessary professional staff, equipment and supplies to provide the training, and has justified the need for training within the area of service.
3.5.4 Denial of recognition will be in accordance with Section 4 of these rules.
3.5.5 Training Center recognition shall be valid for a period of three (3) years from the date of the final recognition letter. Renewal of recognition shall be based upon satisfactory past performance and submission of an updated application form and signature sheet. Any application information as specified in section 3.2 may be required by the Department depending on program status. The Department may require an additional site visit in conjunction with the renewal application.
3.6 Minimum Course Coordinator Requirements for Currently recognized Training Centers or Groups. By no later than January 1, 1995, currently recognized Training Centers and Training Groups must utilize a course coordinator that has successfully completed a state Emergency Medical Services Instructor course or its equivalent as established by the Department.
3.7 Recognition Procedures for Currently Recognized Training Centers and Training Groups.
3.7.1 By no later than 1 year from enactment of these rules, all Training Centers and Training Groups recognized by the Department prior to the enactment of these rules shall be required to submit all information as specified in Section 3.2 of these rules.
3.7.2 Currently recognized Training Centers or Training Groups complying with the provisions stated in 3.7.1 shall receive official recognition which shall be valid for a period of three (3) years from the date of issue.
3.7.3 Currently recognized Training Centers which fail to comply with the provision of 3.7.1 will no longer be recognized as a Training Center.
3.8 By no later than 1 year from enactment of these rules, currently recognized EMT-Paramedic Training Centers must obtain accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic.
3.9 To maintain recognition as an EMT-P Training Center, Training Centers receiving recognition after the date of enactment of these rules must receive accreditation within one year after completion of the first training course.
Section 4 - Denial, Revocation, Suspension, or Limitations of Training Center or Training Group Recognition 4.1 The Department, in accordance with the administrative procedures act, 24-4-101, et seq., may initiate action to deny recognition if any of the following conditions apply.
4.1.1 The applicant does not possess the necessary qualifications to conduct an adequate training course in conformance with established training course policies.
4.1.2 The applicant is not capable of providing the necessary clinical experience that will enable the student to gain practical skills in the performance of patient care.
4.1.3 The applicant has not demonstrated that a need exists within the area to conduct the training course.
4.1.4 The applicant has committed fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for recognition.
4.1.5 The applicant fails to meet the application requirements specified in Section 3 of these rules.
4.2 Any currently recognized Training Center or Training Group may have their recognition suspended, revoked, limited, or placed on probation by the Department in accordance with the provision of the Administrative Procedures Act as defined in C.R.S. 24-4-101, et seq, for the following reasons:
4.2.1 Failure to conduct the training courses in compliance with training course policies.
4.2.2 Students are not receiving a course of instruction which meets generally accepted standards.
4.2.3 Failure to notify the Department of changes in the medical director or course coordinator.
4.2.4 Providing false information to the Department with regard to successful completion of training or successful completion of the state practical examination on behalf of students.
4.2.5 Failure to comply with the provisions specified in Section 3.8 or 3.9.
Section 5 - Initial EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, EMT-Paramedic Certification
5.1 General Requirements
5.1.1 No person shall hold them self out as an Emergency Medical Technician or offer, whether or not for compensation, any services included in these rules or authorized acts permitted by the Board of Medical Examiners Rules, unless that person is currently state certified as an Emergency Medical Technician under these regulations, or is working under the provisions of the Board of Medical Examiners Rules pertaining to Graduate EMT-I or Graduate EMT-P, or otherwise authorized by law.
5.1.2 Certificates issued by the Department shall be for the highest level of training attained by the individual, and multiple certifications within the levels of EMT will not be permitted. Certification at a higher level indicates that the holder of the certificate may also provide medical care at a lower level of certification provided the certification has not been revoked, modified, suspended, or expired.
5.1.3 All applicants must complete certification requirements within six (6) months of successful completion of the training course. Successful completion of training shall be the date specified on the course completion certificate issued by the Training Center or Training Group.
5.1.4 Any individual holding current and valid EMT state certification may request a lower level of certification upon written request to the Department and meeting the current lower level qualifications. The Department will issue a certificate for the appropriate level. Such certificate will be valid for the remaining time allotted on the higher-level certificate.
5.1.5 Any individual dropping in levels of certification will not be permitted to elevate to a higher level of certification until such time as that individual either successfully completes an initial training course or, if eligible, complies with the re-entry requirements as specified in Section 7 of these rules, and successfully completes state certification requirements.
5.2 An applicant for initial EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, or EMT-Paramedic certification shall submit all of the following information to the Department:
5.2.1 a statement that the applicant is at least 18 years of age at the time of application;
5.2.2 an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Department;
5.2.3 proof of length of time having lived in Colorado in a manner defined by the Department. This requirement may be met with a signed attestation.
5.2.4 all of the following reports:
A) if the applicant attests to having been a continuous resident of Colorado for more than three (3) of the previous three (3) years, current results of a finger-print based criminal history check generated by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, or B) if the applicant attests to having resided outside of Colorado for three (3) years or less during the previous three (3) years, current results of a fingerprint based criminal history check generated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and C) a current report obtained from the State Motor Vehicle Division, local law enforcement agency, or the applicant’s employer, that provides information as to whether the applicant does or does not have a past history of motor vehicle traffic violations.
D) for the purposes of this section, a current report is defined as a report obtained no earlier than three (3) months prior to submitting application;
5.2.5 successfully completes an initial training course from a Department-recognized training center;
5.2.6 current and valid certification with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians on an EMT level equivalent to or higher than the Colorado EMT level being applied for; and 5.2.7 current professional level Basic Cardiac Life Support (CPR) certification issued by a national or local organization recognized by the Department as providing training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the time of application; In addition to 5.2.1 through 5.2.7, EMT-Paramedic applicants shall submit proof of current advanced cardiac life support course completion from a national or local organization recognized by the Department at the time of application.
5.3 All certificates issued by the Department shall be valid for three (3) years from the date of issue. Date of issue for initial certification is defined as the date of application approval by the Department.
Section 6 - Renewal of EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, EMT-Paramedic Certification
6.1 General Requirements
6.1.1 Any individual who holds an expired EMT certificate is not classified as a state certified EMT and shall not hold themselves out as such or provide medical care in the capacity of a state certified emergency medical technician.
6.1.2 All persons who have permitted their certification to expire for a period not to exceed six (6) months from the expiration date may renew their certification by complying with the provisions of this Section 6. Persons permitting their certification to expire for a period greater than six (6) months from the expiration date will not be eligible for renewal of certification and, if desiring to become re-certified, will be subject to compliance with the re-entry program requirements specified in Section 7 of these rules.
6.1.3 All certificates renewed by the Department shall be valid for three years from the date of issue.
A) Date of issue is established as follows:
6.2 An applicant for renewal of a current and valid EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, or EMT-Paramedic certificate or one not more than six (6) months expired shall submit all of the following information to the Department:
6.2.1 an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Department;
6.2.2 proof of length of time having lived in Colorado in a manner defined by the Department. This requirement may be met with a signed attestation.
6.2.3 all of the following reports:
A) if the applicant attests to having been a continuous resident of Colorado for more than three (3) of the previous three (3) years, the current results of a fingerprint based criminal history check generated by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, or B) if the applicant attests to having resided outside of Colorado for three (3) years or less during the previous three (3) years, the current results of a fingerprint based criminal history check generated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations.
C) for applications received after June 17, 2007, documentation of any additional criminal activity in a manner defined by the Department, and D) a current report obtained from the State Motor Vehicle Division, local law enforcement agency, or the applicant’s employer, that provides information as to whether the applicant does or does not have a past history of motor vehicle traffic violations.
E) for the purposes of this section, a current report is defined as a report obtained no earlier than three (3) months prior to submitting application; and
6.2.4 successful completion of one of the following:
A) current registration by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians as an NREMT-Basic, NREMT-Intermediate/99, or NREMT-Paramedic.
B) the appropriate level refresher education training course by a Department recognized training group and the practical skill examination for the appropriate EMT application level.
C) an appropriate level continuing education training course by a Department recognized training group and practical skill evaluation or examination for the appropriate EMT application level.
6.2.5 In addition to 6.2.1 through 6.2.4 the following shall apply for every certification application after July 1, 2005:
A) Persons renewing an EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, or EMT-Paramedic certificate shall submit current CPR certification issued by a national or local organization recognized by the Department as providing training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the time of application.
B) Persons renewing an EMT-Intermediate or EMT-Paramedic certificate must possess current ACLS certification at the time of application.
Section 7 - Re-entry Process for Persons That Have Permitted Their Certification to Expire for a Period Greater than Six (6) Months but Not Greater than Thirty-Six (36) Months
7.1 General Requirements.
7.1.1 Persons permitting their certification to expire for a period greater than six (6) months or persons who have not successfully completed initial certification requirements within six (6) months from the date of course completion, or persons who have voluntarily dropped in level of certification may become certified by complying with Section 7 of these rules provided the certificate has not been expired for more than thirty-six (36) months.
7.1.2 Persons who, being certified at a higher level of certification, have requested and received a lower level of certification will be eligible to return to their previous level of certification by meeting the provisions of this Section 7 provided their current lower level of certification is current and valid at the time of application.
7.1.3 Persons with an expired certificate greater than thirty-six (36) months from the date of expiration, or persons who have not been initially certified within thirty-six (36) months from the date of successful completion of an initial training course shall not be eligible for certification until such time as the person successfully completes an initial training course conducted by a recognized training center.
7.2 Applicants for EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, or EMT-Paramedic certification who meet the criteria specified in 7.1.1 or 7.1.2 shall submit all of the following information to the Department:
7.2.1 an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Department;
7.2.2 proof of length of time having lived in Colorado in a manner defined by the Department. This requirement may be met with a signed attestation.
7.2.3 all of the following reports:
A) if the applicant attests to having been a continuous resident of Colorado for more than three (3) of the previous three (3) years, the current results of a fingerprint based criminal history check generated by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, or B) if the applicant attests to having resided outside of Colorado for three (3) years or less of the previous three (3) years, the current results of the fingerprint based criminal history check generated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations.
C) for applications received after June 17, 2007, documentation of any additional criminal activity in a manner defined by the Department, D) and a current report obtained from the State Motor Vehicle Division, local law enforcement agency, or the applicant’s employer, that provides information as to whether the applicant does or does not have a past history of motor vehicle traffic violations, and E) for purposes of this section, a current report is defined as a report obtained no earlier than three (3) months prior to submitting the application.
7.2.4 evidence of completion of the refresher training course for the appropriate level of certification;
7.2.5 evidence of completion of the initial clinical and field training requirements specified in training course policies for the appropriate level of certification;
7.2.6 evidence of successful completion of the state practical examination as identified in training course policies for initial certification for the appropriate level of certification; and 7.2.7 evidence of current professional level CPR certification issued by a national or local organization recognized by the Department as providing training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
7.2.8 In addition to 7.2.1 through 7.2.7, a person wanting to obtain certification as an EMT- Intermediate or EMT-Paramedic after July 1, 2005, shall possess current ACLS certification.
7.2.9 In lieu of completing requirements 7.2.4 through 7.2.6, an applicant may submit current certification with the National Registry of EMTs at the requested certification level. Section 8 - Legal Recognition for Persons Possessing out of State EMT Certification 8.1 The Department may issue an EMT-B, EMT-I, or EMT-P certificate to an applicant from another state possessing a current NREMT-Basic, NREMT-Intermediate/99, or NREMT-Paramedic certificate, issued by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians who:
8.1.1 is eighteen (18) years of age or older and submits an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Department 8.1.2 submits a completed fingerprint card to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation or Federal Bureau Of Investigations for a current fingerprint based national history check with the Department identified as the recipient of the results.
8.1.3 provides the following report:
A) a current report obtained from the State Motor Vehicle Division, local law enforcement agency, or the applicant’s employer, that provides information as to whether the applicant does or does not have a past history of motor vehicle traffic violations.
B) for the purposes of this section, a current report is defined as a report obtained no earlier than three (3) months prior to submitting application;
8.1.4 possesses current and valid certification with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians on an EMT level equivalent to or higher than the Colorado EMT level being applied for; and 8.1.5 the applicant possesses current professional level CPR issued by a national or local organization recognized by the Department as providing training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
8.1.6 In addition, persons wanting to obtain certification as an EMT-Intermediate or EMT- Paramedic after July 1, 2005, must possess current ACLS certification.
8.1.7 Any certificate issued under these provisions will be classified as a transfer of the NREMT certification and will be valid for thirty-six (36) months from the date of application approval by the Department.
Section 9 - State Practical Skills Evaluations
9.1 State Practical Skills Evaluation Requirements.
The State practical skills evaluation, provided in training course policies, will be conducted by recognized training centers or training groups after successful completion of the training course. Section 10 - Denial, Suspension, Revocation, Modification, or Limitation of Certification
10.1 Denial of Certification
The Department, in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, CRS 24-4-101, et seq., as amended, may deny any certificate or refuse to renew a certificate to any applicant for, but not limited to, the following reasons:
10.1.1 Failure to meet requirements specified in Sections 5 or 6 of these rules pertaining to the Issuance of Certificates and the renewal of certification.
10.1.2 Any conduct as described in sections 10.2.2 and 10.2.3 pertaining to good cause for disciplinary action.
10.1.3 Any conduct by a Graduate EMT-I or Graduate EMT-P as described in Section 10.2.2 and10.2.3 pertaining to good cause for disciplinary action.
10.1.4 Fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for or securing certification, or in taking any written or practical certification examination.
10.1.5 Aiding and abetting another person in procuring EMT certification for any person who is not eligible for certification.
10.1.6 Creating a disturbance during a state practical skills evaluation or a state written examination, or conducting themselves in a manner that disrupts other persons taking the examination or prevents the examination proctor from conducting the examination.
10.2 Revocation, Suspension, or Limitation of EMT Certification
10.2.1 Any certification issued by the Department may be suspended, summarily suspended, revoked, or limited for good cause in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, CRS 24-4-101 et seq., as amended.
10.2.2 Good cause for disciplinary sanctions listed in this section shall include, but not be limited to:
A) Unlawful use, possessing, dispensing, administering, or distributing controlled substances.
B) Driving an emergency vehicle in a reckless manner, or while under the influence of alcohol or other performance altering drugs.
C) Responding to or providing patient care while under the influence of alcohol or other performance altering drugs.
D) Demonstrating a pattern of alcohol or other substance abuse.
E) Obtaining certification or recertification by fraud, misrepresentation, deception, or subterfuge.
F) Materially altering any Department certificate, or using and/or possessing any such altered certificate.
G) Having a certificate or license suspended or revoked in another state while holding a Colorado EMT certificate.
H) Unlawfully discriminating in the provision of services.
I) Representing qualifications at any level other than the person's current certification level.
J) Failing to follow accepted standards of care in the management of a patient, or in response to a medical emergency.
K) Failing to administer medications or treatment in a responsible manner in accordance with the physician advisor's orders or protocols.
L) Failing to maintain confidentiality of patient information.
M) Failing to provide the Department with the current place of residence, or change of name, or fails to register with the Department as an EMT-Basic with IV.
N) A pattern of behavior that demonstrates routine response to medical emergencies without being under the policies and procedures of the designated emergency medical response agency and providing medical care without medical direction or supervision of a physician advisor.
O) Performing medical acts not authorized by the Board of Medical Examiners as defined in CCR 3-713-6 and in the absence of any other lawful authorization to perform such medical acts.
P) Failing to provide care, or discontinuing care when a duty to provide care has been established.
Q) Appropriating or possessing without authorization medications, supplies, equipment or personal items of a patient or employer.
R) Falsifying entries or failing to make essential entries in a patient's run report or medical record.
S) Falsifying entries made on the state pre-hospital care reporting form.
T) Violating any state or federal rule or regulation that would jeopardize the health or safety of a patient or the public.
U) Unprofessional conduct at the scene of an emergency that hinders, delays, eliminates, or deters the provision of medical care to the patient or endangers the safety of the public.
V) Committing or permitting, aiding or abetting the commission of an unlawful act that substantially relates to performance of an EMT's duties and responsibilities as determined by the department.
10.2.3 Good cause for disciplinary sanctions also includes conviction of, or a plea of no contest to, a felony or misdemeanor, which relates to the duties and responsibilities of an EMT, including patient care and public safety.
A) The following crimes set forth in the Colorado criminal code (title 18, C.R.S.) are considered to relate to the duties and responsibilities of an EMT:
B) Offenses listed in 10.2.3(a) are not exclusive. The Department may consider other criminal convictions, including those from other state, federal, foreign or military jurisdictions.
C) In determining whether to deny, revoke, suspend or otherwise limit a certificate or refuse to renew a certificate based on a felony or misdemeanor conviction, the department may consider and review the following:
10.5 Appeals
10.5.1 If the Department denies any certificate or refuses to renew a certificate to an applicant, the Department will provide the applicant with notice of the grounds for the certification denial or refusal to renew and inform the applicant of the applicant's right to request a hearing.
A) A request for a hearing must be submitted to the Department in writing within sixty
B) If a hearing is requested, the applicant must file an answer within sixty (60) calendar days of the date of the notice.
C) If a request for a hearing is made in a timely manner, the hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act.
D) If the applicant does not request a hearing in writing within sixty (60) calendar days of the date of the notice, the applicant is deemed to have waived the opportunity for a hearing.
10.5.2 If the Department proposes to revoke, suspend, limit or otherwise modify a certificate, the Department will notify the certificate holder by first class mail to the last address furnished to the Department by the certificate holder. The notice shall state the alleged facts and/or conduct warranting the proposed action and state that the certificate holder may request a hearing.
A) The certificate holder shall file a written answer within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of mailing of the notice.
B) A request for a hearing must be submitted to the Department in writing within thirty
C) If a request for a hearing is made in a timely manner, the hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the administrative procedures act.
D) If the certificate holder does not request a hearing in writing within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of mailing of the notice, the certificate holder is deemed to have waived the opportunity for a hearing.
10.5.3 If the Department summarily suspends a certificate, the Department will provide the certificate holder notice of such in writing, which notice shall be sent by first class mail to the last address furnished to the Department by the certificate holder. The notice shall state that the certificate holder is entitled to a prompt hearing on the matter. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act. Section 11 - Data and Information Collection and Record Keeping
11.1 State Prehospital Care Reporting Requirements
All ambulance transport agencies shall provide the department with such data and information required to evaluate, coordinate and plan for the continued development of the emergency medical care system in the State. Such data and information shall be provided on forms supplied by the Department, or on alternate media in a form acceptable to the Department.
11.1.1 In accordance with C.R.S. 25-3.5-501, the following information is necessary to evaluate, coordinate and plan for the continued development of the emergency medical care system and shall be reported to the Department by all ambulance services as defined in CRS 25-3.5-103(3) for each emergency call.
a) Agency identification as assigned by the Department.
b) Date call was dispatched.
c) Time, in military format, to include:
d) County in which incident occurred.
e) Incident location categorized by classifications specified by the Council.
f) Mode of response (emergent or non-emergent) to and from the incident scene, if applicable.
g) Classification of the call as "trauma" or "medical" in nature.
h) If the call is designated as "trauma", the primary mechanism of injury categorized by classifications specified by the Council and the patient's initial Revised Trauma Score. In addition, if the trauma is the result of an incident involving a bicycle, motorcycle, motor vehicle or recreational vehicle, an indication, if known, of the protective equipment worn or utilized by the patient, and an indication, if known, whether the patient was the operator or passenger of the vehicle.
i) If the call is designated as "medical", the signs, symptoms, illness or emergency categorized by classifications as specified by the Department.
j) Patient age and sex.
k) Number of miles patient was transported from the incident scene to the receiving facility or point of transfer to another EMS agency.
l) Receiving facility or agency identification number assigned by the Department.
m) Any special codes assigned by the Department to identify the classes of patients or specific procedures performed in the field.
n) Five-digit ZIP code of the patient's residence, if known. Patients residing outside the United States, or others without a residence will be designated by a five-digit code assigned by the Department.
o) The outcome of the call categorized by classifications specified by the Council.
p) An indication of the highest level of training, certification or licensure of the medical personnel providing care from the reporting agency.
11.1.2 All ambulance transport agencies providing this information on data-collection forms supplied by the state shall deliver a copy of the form to the receiving facility with the patient, or include the state-assigned ambulance trip report number from the data- collection form on the patient encounter record delivered with the patient. Ambulance transport agencies providing this information on alternate media shall deliver a copy of the patient encounter record including the state-assigned ambulance trip report number, or its equivalent, to the receiving facility.
11.1.3 A licensed ambulance service must provide the information specified in Section 11.1.1 for that agency to be eligible for State monies distributed through the EMS Provider Grant Program pursuant to the provisions of C.R.S. 25-3.5-601, as amended. Section 12 - Licensure Of Ambulance Services
12.1 Purpose And Scope
12.1.1 These rules are promulgated pursuant to § 25-3.5-308, CRS (2004). They are consistent with § 25-3.5-301, 302, and 304 -306, CRS (2004). Each county may adopt rules that exceed these rules adopted herein.
12.2 Definitions
12.2.1 Based: an ambulance service headquartered, having a substation, office ambulance post or other permanent location in a county.
12.2.2 County: county or city and county government within Colorado.
12.2.3 Department: the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
12.2.4 Ambulance: any public or privately owned land vehicle especially constructed or modified and equipped, intended to be used and maintained or operated by, ambulance services for the transportation, upon the roads, streets and highways of this state, of individuals who are sick, injured, or otherwise incapacitated or helpless.
12.2.5 Ambulance-advanced life support: a type of permit issued by a county to a vehicle equipped in accordance with Section 9 of these rules and operated by an ambulance service authorizing the vehicle to be used to provide ambulance service limited to the scope of practice of the emergency medical technician-intermediate or emergency medical technician-paramedic as defined in the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners rules, 3 CCR 713-6, Rule 500, Sections 5 and 6.
12.2.6 Ambulance-basic life support: a type of permit issued by a county to a vehicle equipped in accordance with Section 9 of these rules and authorized to be used to provide ambulance service limited to the scope of practice of the emergency medical technician- basic as defined in the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners rules, 3 CCR 713-6, rule 500, section 4.
12.2.7 Ambulance service license: a legal document issued to an ambulance service by a county as evidence that the applicant meets the requirements for licensure to operate an ambulance service as defined by county resolution or regulations.
12.2.8 Ambulance service: the furnishing, operating, conducting, maintaining, advertising, or otherwise engaging in or professing to be engaged in the transportation of patients by ambulance. Taken in context, the person so engaged or professing to be so engaged and the vehicles used for the emergency transportation of persons injured at a mine are excluded from this definition when the personnel utilized in the operation of said vehicles are subject to the mandatory safety standards of the federal mine safety and health administration, or its successor agency.
12.2.9 Medical Director: a Colorado licensed physician who establishes protocols and standing orders for medical acts performed by department-certified EMTs of a prehospital EMS service agency and who is specifically identified as being responsible to assure the competency of the performance of those acts by such department-certified EMTs as described in the physician’s medical continuous quality improvement program. Any reference to a “physician advisor” in the state EMS rules or in the Board of Medical Examiners previously adopted rules shall apply to a “medical director” as defined in these rules.
12.2.10 Patient Care Report: a medical record of an encounter between any patient and a provider of medical care.
12.2.11 Permit: the authorization issued by the governing body of a local government with respect to an ambulance used or to be used to provide ambulance service in this state.
12.2.12 Medical quality improvement program: a process consistent with Colorado Board of Medical Examiners rules, 3 CCR 713-6, Rule 500, Section 3.2 (b), used to objectively, systematically and continuously monitor, assess and improve the quality and appropriateness of care provided by the medical care providers operating on an ambulance service.
12.2.13 Rescue Unit: any organized group chartered by this state as a corporation not for profit or otherwise existing as a nonprofit organization whose purpose is the search for and the rescue of lost or injured persons and includes, but is not limited to, such groups as search and rescue, mountain rescue, ski patrols, (either volunteer or professional), law enforcement posses, civil defense units, or other organizations of governmental designation responsible for search and rescue.
12.2.14 Quick Response Teams: provides initial care to a patient prior to the arrival of an ambulance.
12.3 County Issuance Of Licenses And Permit
12.3.1 License Required
A) Within one year following adoption of these rules, no person or agency, private or public, shall transport a patient from any point within Colorado in an ambulance, to any point within or outside Colorado unless that person or agency holds a valid license and permits issued by the county where the service is based and by the county where the patient originates, except as provided in subsection 3.2 of these rules.
B) Ambulance services that are based outside Colorado, but respond within Colorado and transport patients originating in Colorado are required to be licensed in Colorado by the county in which they provide service.
C) Counties may enter into reciprocal licensing and permitting agreements with other counties and neighboring states.
12.3.2 County Exemptions From Licensure or Permit Requirements
A) Vehicles used for the transportation of persons injured at a mine when the personnel used on the vehicles are subject to the mandatory safety standards of the federal mine safety and health administration, or its successor agency.
B) Vehicles used by other agencies including quick response teams and rescue units that do not routinely transport patients or vehicles used to transport patients for extrication from areas inaccessible to a permitted ambulance. Vehicles used in this capacity may only transport patients to the closest practical point for access to a permitted ambulance or hospital.
C) Vehicles, including ambulances from another state, used during major catastrophe or mass casualty incident rendering services when permitted ambulances are insufficient.
D) An ambulance service that does not transport patients from points originating in Colorado, or transporting a patient originating outside the borders of Colorado.
E) Vehicles used or designed for the scheduled transportation of convalescent patients, individuals with disabilities, or persons who would not be expected to require skilled treatment or care while in the vehicle.
F) Vehicles used solely for the transportation of intoxicated persons or persons incapacitated by alcohol as defined in § 25-1-302, CRS (2004) but who are not otherwise disabled or seriously injured and who would not be expected to require skilled treatment or care while in the vehicle.
G) Ambulances operated by a department or an agency of the federal government, originating from a federal reservation for the purpose of responding to, or transporting patients under federal responsibility.
12.3.3 General Requirements For County Licensure Of Ambulance Services
A) Counties shall adopt by resolution or regulations a process for licensure of ambulance services. The process shall include, but not be limited to:
B) These rules incorporate by reference (Section 12.3.3 (a) (9)) materials originally published elsewhere. These rules do not include later amendments to or editions of the incorporated materials. The Department of Public Health and Environment maintains copies of the complete text of the incorporated materials for public inspection during regular business hours, and shall provide certified copies of any non-copyrighted material to the public at cost upon request. The incorporated material may be examined at any state publications depository library.
Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Section Chief, Health Facilities and Emergency Medical Services Division, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, Colorado 80246
12.3.4 Licensure Process
A) Ambulance Service License
B) Permits Of Vehicles
12.3.5 Licensure Period
A) The licensure period for all ambulance services shall be for twelve months.
12.3.6 License Renewal
A) Counties shall create an annual license renewal process. The license renewal process shall require the ambulance service to submit a completed renewal application form and the required licensure fee, as defined in county resolution or regulations. The licensure renewal process shall require the receipt of applications for renewal no less than 30 days before the date of license expiration.
12.4 Complaints
12.4.1 Each county must have a written complaint and investigation policy and procedure to address:
A) complaints against any ambulance service licensed in the county.
B) allegations of unlicensed ambulance services or vehicles without a valid permit operating within the county.
12.4.2 The policy shall include, but not be limited to, the procedures associated with complaint intake; complaint validation; criteria for initiating an investigation; a method for notification to the complainant about the resolution of the investigation; and a method for the notification of other local entities with jurisdiction over ambulance services, the department and/or the Board of Medical Examiners for complaints regarding certified emergency medical technicians, other medical personnel associated with the service or the medical director.
12.4.3 The county shall notify the primary medical director of the ambulance service, in writing, of any violation of the ambulance licensing regulations by the ambulance service or alleged complaints or violations by individual medical providers operating on an ambulance service.
12.5 Denial, Revocation, Or Suspension Of Licensure And Vehicle Permits
12.5.1 Each county shall develop policies and procedures for the denial, suspension or revocation of an ambulance service license or ambulance permit consistent with § 25- 3.5-304, CRS (2004).
12.6 Minimum Data Collection And Reporting Requirements
12.6.1 The county shall require that licensed ambulance services complete a patient care report for each patient that is assessed. The patient care report shall include the minimum pre-hospital care data set as set forth in the Emergency Medical Services Rules, 6 CCR 1015-3.
12.6.2 The county shall require that the ambulance service provide patient care information to the department pursuant to Emergency Medical Services Rules, 6 CCR 1015-3.
12.6.3 The county shall require that each licensed ambulance service complete and submit to the department an agency profile as defined by State Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Advisory Council and approved by the department to provide information on resources available for planning and coordination of statewide emergency medical and trauma services on an annual basis.
12.7 Minimum Staffing Requirements
12.7.1 The county shall establish by resolution or regulations ambulance staffing requirements to include, but not be limited to:
A) The minimum requirement for the person responsible for providing direct emergency medical care to patients transported in an ambulance shall be certified as an emergency medical technician-basic as defined in Emergency Medical Services Rules, 6 CCR 1015-3.
B) The minimum requirement for the ambulance driver shall be a valid driver’s license.
12.7.2 Consistent with § 25-3.5-202, CRS (2004) in the case of an emergency in any ambulance service area where no person possessing the qualifications required by this section is present or available to respond to a call for the emergency treatment and transportation of patients by ambulance, any person may operate such ambulance to transport any sick, injured, or otherwise incapacitated or helpless person in order to stabilize the medical condition of such person pending the availability of personnel meeting these minimum qualifications.
12.8 Medical Oversight And Quality Improvement
12.8.1 The county shall require each ambulance service operating within their jurisdiction to have a primary medical director meeting the requirements established by the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners as defined in the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners 3 CCR 713-6, Rule 500 to supervise the medical acts performed by all personnel on the ambulance service. The county shall require a licensee to inform the county within 15 calendar days, in writing, of changes in medical oversight of the ambulance service and/or the medical director of record.
12.8.2 The county ambulance service licensure application shall include an attestation by the medical director of willingness to provide medical oversight and a medical continuous quality improvement program for the ambulance service.
12.8.3 The county shall require each licensed ambulance service operating within their jurisdiction to have an ongoing medical continuous quality improvement program consistent with the requirements as defined in the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners rules 3 CCR 713-6, Rule 500, 3.2, b.
12.9 Minimum Equipment Requirements
12.9.1 Counties shall ensure that permitted ambulances are in compliance with the minimum equipment list for the type of service defined by their permit as defined in 9.3 and 9.4 of these rules.
12.9.2 Minimum Equipment For Basic Life Support Ambulances
A) Ventilation And Airway Equipment
B) Patient Assessment Equipment
C) Splinting Equipment
D) Dressing Materials
E) Obstetrical Supplies
F) Miscellaneous Equipment
G) Ambulance Service Medical Treatment Protocols.
H) Communications Equipment
I) Extrication Equipment
J) Body Substance Isolation (BSI) Equipment Properly Sized To Fit All Personnel
K) Safety Equipment
12.9.3 Minimum Equipment Requirement for Advanced Life Support Ambulances
A) All Equipment Listed In 9.2 B) Ventilation Equipment
C) Patient Assessment Equipment
D) Intravenous Equipment
E) Pharmacological Agents
Section 13 - Air Ambulance Licensing
13.1 Purpose and Scope
13.1.1 These rules are promulgated pursuant to Section 25-3.5-307 C.R.S. (2005).
13.2 Definitions
13.2.1 Air Ambulance: A fixed-wing or rotor-wing aircraft that is equipped to provide air transportation and is specifically designed to accommodate the medical needs of individuals who are ill, injured, or otherwise mentally or physically incapacitated and who require in-flight medical supervision.
13.2.2 Air Ambulance License: A legal document issued by the department as evidence that an air ambulance service meets the requirements for licensing as defined in these rules.
13.2.3 Air Ambulance Service: Any governmental or private organization licensed by the department to transport in an aircraft patient(s) who require in-flight medical supervision to a medical facility.
13.2.4 Aircraft: A rotor or fixed wing vehicle.
13.2.5 Aircraft Operator: The vendor and/or owner who operates and maintains the aircraft utilized by an air ambulance service.
13.2.6 Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS): A national not for profit organization that provides accreditation services for air medical and inter-facility transportation services.
13.2.7 Department: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
13.2.8 Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR): Regulations promulgated by the Federal Aviation Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation, governing the operation of all aircraft in the United States.
13.2.9 Patient Care Report (PCR): A medical record of an encounter between any patient and a provider of air medical care.
13.2.10 Protocol: Written standards for patient medical assessment and management.
13.2.11 Rescue Unit: Any organized group chartered by this state as a corporation not for profit or otherwise existing as a nonprofit organization whose purpose is the search for and the rescue of lost or injured persons and includes, but is not limited to, such groups as search and rescue, mountain rescue, ski patrols, (either volunteer or professional), law enforcement posses, civil defense units, or other organizations of governmental designation responsible for search and rescue.
13.3 Licensing
13.3.1 Licensing Required
A) Upon the effective date of these rules, no person, agency, or entity, private or public, shall transport a sick or injured person by aircraft from any point within Colorado, to any point within or outside Colorado unless that person, agency, or entity holds a valid air ambulance service license to do so that has been issued by the department, except as provided in subsection 13.4 of these rules.
13.4 Exemptions From Licensing
13.4.1 Aircraft based inside or outside of Colorado that are used by rescue units for extrication of patients to an appropriate location are exempt from these rules. Aircraft used in this capacity must only be used to transport patients to a location where an appropriately licensed air or ground ambulance service may assume care.
13.4.2 Aircraft based inside or outside of Colorado that are used during a major catastrophe or mass casualty incident are exempt from these regulations.
13.4.3 A service agency that does not transport patients from points originating in Colorado, or transports a patient originating outside the borders of Colorado is exempt from these regulations.
13.5 Out of State Air Ambulance Services Licensing Requirements
13.5.1 Air ambulance services that are based outside the state, but pick up patients in Colorado, are required to be licensed in Colorado by the department, except as provided in section
13.4.2 of these regulations.
13.6 Licensing Period
13.6.1 Any air ambulance service license issued or approved by the department shall be valid for a period not to exceed one year.
13.7 Licensing Process
13.7.1 To become licensed and maintain licensed status as an air ambulance service, the service shall:
A) Demonstrate compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations to operate a business in Colorado.
B) Submit to the department a complete application form and the required application fee.
C) Demonstrate compliance with these rules.
D) Upon request, submit to the department copies of the service’s written policy and procedure manual, operation/medical protocols, and other documentation the department may deem necessary.
13.7.2 The department may conduct an inspection of the service and its aircraft to assure compliance with these rules.
13.7.3 When change of ownership of an air ambulance service occurs, the new owner or operator must file for and obtain an air ambulance service license from the department prior to beginning operations.
13.8 Application For Licensing
13.8.1 At the time of application, applicants must be in compliance with all Federal Aviation Regulations such as proof of insurance, aircraft inspection certificates, Federal Aviation Administration part 135 certificate and Federal Communications Commission part 90.
13.8.2 The department may issue a license to an applicant that has not yet received CAMTS accreditation upon proof that the applicant has initiated the process to become CAMTS certified. The department may require that such proof be verified by CAMTS.
13.8.3 Applicants applying for a license that are currently certified by CAMTS may receive a license to operate an air ambulance service upon completion of the documentation and fees that are required by the department and proof of such certification.
13.8.4 At such time as any air ambulance service licensed under section 13.3.1 of these regulations receives a “notification of potential withdrawal of certification” from CAMTS, or is no longer CAMTS certified, the service shall immediately notify the department.
13.9 Types of Service
13.9.1 In order to identify the types of services to be provided, air ambulance licenses shall be issued for each of the following types of service.
A) Rotor wing advanced life support (RW-ALS)
B) Rotor wing critical care (RW-CC)
C) Rotor wing specialty care (RW-SC)
D) Fixed wing basic life support (FW-BLS)
E) Fixed wing advanced life support (FW-ALS)
F) Fixed wing critical care (FW-CC)
G) Fixed wing specialty care (FW-SC)
13.10 License Renewal
13.10.1 To renew an existing air ambulance service license, the licensee shall submit a renewal application and fee, as set by the department, no later than three (3) months prior to the date of license expiration.
13.10.2 A renewal inspection may be required by the department to assure service compliance with these rules.
13.11 General Operational Requirements
13.11.1 Each air ambulance service shall work in coordination with all other air ambulance services to assure optimal minimal response times.
13.11.2 Policies for responding to requests for services shall include:
A) Consultation with the requesting party regarding how and to whom those flights will be referred, based on the air ambulance service’s scope of service, geographical proximity, transport capability and type of call.
B) The closest appropriate service shall be dispatched unless a specific air ambulance service is requested by the requesting party.
C) All air ambulance services must have a communications system in place capable of providing appropriate, timely referrals.
D) Factors affecting the estimated time of arrival (ETA) of air ambulance service shall be communicated to the calling party as soon as possible, within five (5) minutes for inter-facility transports and three (3) minutes for scene requests.
E) Scene requests shall be referred within three (3) minutes to the next closest, available, appropriate resource if the initial requested air ambulance service does not have an aircraft and crew immediately available.
F) Inter-facility transport requests shall be referred within five (5) minutes to the next closest, available, appropriate resource if the initial requested air ambulance service does not have an aircraft and crew immediately available.
G) Air ambulance service response policies and times shall be available to the public, upon request.
H) Colorado licensed air ambulance services shall complete a patient care report (PCR) to include the minimum pre-hospital care data set for each patient that is transported. The minimum data elements identified by the department shall be compiled and submitted to the department in a format and frequency specified by the department.
I) Each licensed air ambulance service shall complete and submit to the department an agency profile to provide information on resources available for planning and coordination of statewide emergency medical and trauma services.
13.12 Complaints
13.12.1 Complaints in writing relating to the quality and conduct of any air ambulance service may be made by any person or may be initiated by the department. The department may make inquiry as to the validity of such complaint prior to initiating an investigation. If the department determines that the complaint warrants a more extensive review, an investigation may be initiated. If the complaint does not warrant further review or the inquiry determines that the complaint is not within regulatory jurisdiction of the department, the department will notify the complainant of the results of the inquiry. The department shall refer complaints that are related to the requirements of CAMTS or a successor organization to CAMTS or such successor organization for investigation. The department may forward complaints to other state regulatory agencies.
13.13 Denial, Revocation, Suspension, Summary Suspension, or Limitations of Air Ambulance Licensing 13.13.1 If the department proposes for good cause to deny, revoke, suspend, summarily suspend or limit the license of an air ambulance service, the department shall notify the facility of its right to appeal the denial, revocation, suspension, summary suspension, or limitation, and the procedure for appealing. Appeals of departmental denials, revocations, suspensions, summary suspensions, or limitations shall be conducted in accordance with the State Administrative Procedure Act, Section 24-4-101, et seq., C.R.S.
13.13.2 In accordance with Section 24-4-104(4) C.R.S., the department may summarily suspend an air ambulance service license when the department has reasonable grounds to believe and finds that the holder of the license has been guilty of deliberate and willful violation or that the public health, safety or welfare imperatively requires emergency action by the department. If the department summarily suspends a license, the department shall provide the air ambulance service with notice of such suspension in writing. The notice shall state that the facility is entitled to a prompt hearing on the matter.
13.13.3 Good Cause for Sanctions Include:
A) An applicant or licensee who fails to meet the requirements for licensing as set forth in these rules.
B) An applicant or licensee who has committed fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for a license.
C) Falsifying reporting information provided to the department.
D) Violating any state or federal statute, rule or regulation that would jeopardize the health or safety of a patient or the public.
E) Unprofessional conduct, which hinders, delays, eliminates, or deters the provisions of medical care to the patient or endangers the safety of the public.
F) Failure to maintain CAMTS accreditation.
13.14 Fees
13.14.1 All applicants applying for licensure by the department under these air ambulance service regulations shall submit the following non-refundable fees with each initial or renewal licensure application:
A) $860 for each air ambulance service, plus $100 for each aircraft used by the air ambulance service.
B) For applicants that do not have CAMTS accreditation, the applicant shall pay a fee of $525 to the department in addition to the fee set forth in 13.14.1 A) above.
13.15 General Requirements
13.15.1 These rules incorporate by reference the following materials: Accreditation standards of the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS), Sixth Edition, published October 2004. Such incorporation does not include later amendments to or editions of the referenced material. The Health Facilities and Emergency Medical Services Division of the Department of Public Health and Environment maintains copies of the complete text of the incorporated materials for public inspection during regular business hours, and shall provide certified copies of any non-copyrighted material to the public at cost upon request. Information regarding how the incorporated materials may be obtained or examined is available from the division by contacting: