New EMS Treat-in-place law to take effect in the month of May

Danielle Sandler
·2 min read
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CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — A new law was put into effect for residents of West Virginia to help with emergency needs.

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This new “treat-in-place” law started on May 1, 2024 and was signed into law by Governor Jim Justice on May 9, 2024. It allows patients with certain ailments and conditions to be treated in their own home. This helps with long wait times and ambulance use at the hospital. This law helps residents of the state get access to the emergency services and first responders in their time of need during an emergency.

“This is victory for not only the countless lives that will be saved, but the EMS providers they depend on to answer their call,” said Governor Justice.

This law also helps EMS companies bill for certain services other than being at a hospital. It will also help with EMS to respond more easily and more quickly to emergencies.

“Too often, we hear of hospitals on red diversion and patients being diverted to other facilities. These are critical minutes this law gives back to the patient. One 911 call that goes unanswered is one call too many and I’m proud to be a part of this effort that will help make sure there are ambulances available for anyone who has to make that call,” said West Virginia Department of Health Secretary Sherri A. Young, DO, MBA, FAAFP, who also oversees the state’s Office of Emergency Medical Services.

Medicaid will also be able to bill for certain services provided as well.

“This gives EMS units across the state the added support they need to operate which will in turn save lives,” said the Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services Director Joseph Ratliff.

The Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services has also worked on the education for certain emergency needs and protocols and will be sent out to agency training officers. They in turn will be educating providers on different protocols used.

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For protocols, visit https://www.wvoems.org/media/461634/treatment%20in%20place%20guideline.pdf

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