The role of state medical direction in the comprehensive emergency medical services system: a resource document.

Medical oversight is a fundamental component of every emergency medical services (EMS) system. The quality of physician medical direction has a significant impact upon the system and patient outcome. The lead agency for the state EMS system is a principal facet of our emergency care system, and the state EMS medical director is a vital component within this comprehensive network. The selection of an experienced, qualified physician for the provision of state EMS medical direction is a critical decision. This resource document provides a snapshot of the status of state EMS medical direction in our nation in 2007 and a projection of the achievable benchmarks for the role of the state EMS medical director in the future. As an informational resource, this tool will assist state EMS officials, legislators, laypersons, and partners within the emergency care system to comprehend, create or improve, and support the state EMS medical director position within their jurisdictions.