The following is a timeline of significant events that molded the EMS system into the network of responders, protocols, and standards that we have today:

 

1966

• Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society
• The National Academy of Sciences publishes the landmark report Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society, laying the groundwork for an organized system of pre-hospital emergency medical care.

1970

• NHTSA
• The National Highway Safety Bureau is reorganized as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, whose mission includes the development of an EMS system that responds to all kinds of injuries and illnesses.
  

1971

• National Standard Curriculum for EMTs
• The US Department of Transportation publishes a national curriculum for EMTs, the first national standards for the education of EMS professionals.

1974

• National EMS Week
• President Gerald Ford declares November 3-10, 1974, the first “National Emergency Medical Services Week.”  The profession continues to observe EMS Week each year during the third week of May by recognizing and celebrating the important role of EMS in communities across the country.

1977

• Star of Life
• The US Patent and Trademark Office approves the registration of the Star of Life by NHTSA as a symbol for EMS.  Adapted from the emergency medical symbol created by the American Medical Association, the Star of Life quickly became synonymous with emergency medical services across the country and around the globe and is often found on uniforms, equipment, ambulances, and roadway signs.

1977

• National Standard Curriculum for EMT-Paramedics
• The US Department of Transportation publishes a national curriculum for EMT-Paramedics.  It is the first set national standards for the education of advanced life support EMS clinicians.

1984

• EMS for Children Established

1988

• State EMS Assessment Program

2001

• NEMSIS – Established – storing and sharing of data.

2005

• National 911 Program

2007

• National EMS Scope of Practice Model

2011

• National EMS Assessment

2012

• National Prehospital Evidence Based Guideline Model Process

2014

• EMS Compass - build a culture of quality measurement and improvement in EMS.

2018

• Rapid Process for Emergent Changes to National EMS Scope of Practice Model

2020

• Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
  

Quote from the President this week:

“Every day, emergency medical service (EMS) providers put the needs of their communities above their own as they respond to crises, treat injuries, and save lives.”  Their heroism has been on full display throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as resilient EMS workers across the country have provided essential care to Americans.  This year’s Emergency Medical Services Week theme, 'Rising to the Challenge,' pays tribute to the brave frontline professionals who work tirelessly to help their fellow Americans get immediate medical attention in their hours of greatest need.”

#EMSStrong