SB3516 Summary

• Amends the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act by modifying Section 3.20 regarding hospital bypass and diversion protocols.

• Requires EMS System protocols to allow transport of patients to healthcare facilities other than the nearest hospital, trauma center, or regional trauma center when that facility can provide appropriate medical treatment.

• Adds a third condition (in addition to existing medical benefit and patient choice provisions) allowing diversion when another healthcare facility is capable of providing appropriate medical treatment for the patient.

• Modifies existing language by changing "or" to allow multiple qualifying conditions for patient transport decisions beyond the nearest available facility.