On Thursday, Nov. 2, Senator Jordan Rasmusson (R-Fergus Falls) was appointed to serve on the Joint Task Force on Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The Task Force consists of a bipartisan group of legislators, five from the House and five from the Senate. It aims to find ways to improve the life-saving services provided by EMS personnel in Minnesota communities.

Access to Emergency Medical Services is vital to Greater Minnesota but providing these services can often be more challenging. From higher fixed costs to difficulty recruiting and retaining its workforce, rural EMS face unique challenges. It’s essential to provide high-quality health care to all Minnesotans, and I’m eager to work with bipartisan legislators to find solutions for that.

According to officials, Minnesota has more than 250 licensed ground ambulance services, which in 2021 responded to approximately 540,000 emergency calls to 911. A February 2022 report by the Office of the Legislative Auditor outlined a variety of concerns about the overall viability of EMS providers and the persistent funding and staffing challenges they’ve faced in recent years, particularly in greater Minnesota. The report also noted concerns related to the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board’s oversight capabilities and authority to set certain standards.

The Task Force will have its first meeting later this fall.