Gov. Whitmer temporarily suspends emergency medical service regulations

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Tuesday temporarily suspending requirements for licensing and regulations for emergency medical services.

“Our paramedics are on the front lines every day helping us mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan, and we must do everything we can to help them do their jobs efficiently and effectively,” Gov. Whitmer said in a statement.

Through the order, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will not be required to do annual random inspections of life support vehicles or agencies.

Now, they will only be checked if the department believes there is a reason to do so.

The Governor's office also says that expiration dates for personnel licenses and professional certifications in basic cardiac life support will be extended

The order also allows EMS to take patients anywhere designated by the local health department or by any regulatory authority.

Gov. Whitmer says she will also work to get personal protection equipment for first responders.

“Given the rapid increase in Michiganders who require emergency medical treatment and the scarcity of medical supplies and PPE, it's important that we give emergency medical services the ability to respond flexibly to these new challenges. I will also continue to work around the clock to secure more PPE for our first responders and health care professionals across the state. We will get through this together.”

The executive order goes into effect immediately and will stay active until the end of the state of emergency or the order is lifted.