What is the minimum staffing requirement for Tier I transports?

What is the minimum staffing requirement for Tier I transports?

• A. Two physicians.
• B. Driver alone.
• C. Driver as paramedic and expanded scope provider.
• D. An authorized EMT or Paramedic as driver and an authorized expanded scope of practice Paramedic, PHRN, PHPA, PHAPRN, or physician with the patient.

Answer: (D)

The rule tests the need for a two-person crew on Tier I transports: one person to drive (must be an EMT or Paramedic) and a second person who is authorized to practice at an expanded scope (Paramedic with expanded scope, PHRN, PHPA, PHAPRN, or a physician) to be with the patient. This setup ensures there’s someone to safely operate the vehicle and someone qualified to provide the necessary clinical care during transport. Having only a driver would leave no one to manage medical needs, and requiring two physicians or a driver alone doesn’t fit the policy. The combination of a driving EMT/Paramedic plus a second, expanded-scope clinician best fulfills both safety and clinical care requirements for Tier I transports.

The rule tests the need for a two-person crew on Tier I transports: one person to drive (must be an EMT or Paramedic) and a second person who is authorized to practice at an expanded scope (Paramedic with expanded scope, PHRN, PHPA, PHAPRN, or a physician) to be with the patient. This setup ensures there’s someone to safely operate the vehicle and someone qualified to provide the necessary clinical care during transport. Having only a driver would leave no one to manage medical needs, and requiring two physicians or a driver alone doesn’t fit the policy. The combination of a driving EMT/Paramedic plus a second, expanded-scope clinician best fulfills both safety and clinical care requirements for Tier I transports.