Public Actions on Your Credential
The Minnesota Office of EMS (OEMS) is responsible for ensuring EMS providers follow professional and legal standards. When a provider is found to have violated Minnesota Statute 144E, OEMS may take public enforcement actions to address the issue and protect public safety. In many cases, OEMS works collaboratively with individuals and agencies to establish compliance while allowing them to continue practicing under specific conditions.
Types of Public Actions
Below is an overview of the most common public actions OEMS may take when investigating complaints, holding hearings, or enforcing disciplinary measures against ambulance services, EMS personnel, and emergency medical responders.
Non-Disciplinary Action
Agreement for Corrective Action (ACA)
An ACA is a public agreement used to resolve minor compliance issues without imposing formal discipline.
Key Points:
- Designed for remedial purposes, not punishment.
- Requires education, training, or corrective measures.
- Must be completed within a specified timeframe.
- Failure to comply may lead to formal disciplinary action.
Formal Disciplinary Actions
Determination of Facts and Findings
A determination is the formal decision reached after an investigation into alleged misconduct or policy violations. It establishes whether disciplinary action is necessary and, if so, what measures will be taken based on the severity of the violation.
Key Points:
- It is a disciplinary decision issued by the OEMS after reviewing evidence and relevant factors.
- Establishes conditions that must be met, such as supervision, additional training, or reporting requirements.
- May include a stayed suspension, allowing the provider to continue practicing while fulfilling the agreement’s terms.
- May require a Cease to Practice, meaning the provider must temporarily stop working while meeting compliance conditions.
- If terms are violated, the suspension or additional discipline may take effect.
Stipulation and Consent Order
A Stipulation & Consent Order is a legally binding agreement in which a provider accepts specific conditions to maintain licensure or mitigate further disciplinary action.
Key Points:
- A written agreement between the OEMS and investigative subjects that establishes conditions that must be met, such as supervision, additional training, or reporting requirements.
- May include a stayed suspension, allowing the provider to continue practicing while fulfilling the agreement’s terms.
- If terms are violated, the suspension or additional discipline may take effect.
Stipulation to Cease to Practice Agreement
A Cease to Practice Agreement requires a provider to voluntarily stop working while under investigation or fulfilling compliance requirements.
Key Points:
- May be required while an investigation is pending or while meeting disciplinary conditions.
- Does not immediately revoke or suspend a license but prevents active EMS practice until compliance is achieved.
- Often included in a Stipulation & Consent Order or other formal agreements.
- Violating a Cease to Practice Agreement may result in further disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation.
Voluntary Surrender
Voluntary surrender allows a provider to give up their EMS certification or license instead of facing formal enforcement actions.
Key Points:
- Is considered a disciplinary action and may appear on the provider’s public record.
- Typically used when a provider chooses not to contest allegations.
- May be permanent or time-limited, depending on the circumstances.
- Reinstatement may require meeting specific conditions or applying for licensure again.
Certification and Registration Actions: Revocation and Suspension
Revocation
Revocation means you permanently lose your EMS certification or license due to serious violations.
If you want to apply again in the future, you must first complete all the requirements listed in your revocation order. After that, you must also meet all the initial licensing requirements as if you are applying for the first time.
Key Points:
- The provider loses the ability to practice EMS in Minnesota.
- Reinstatement is only possible through a formal application and review process.
- Considered the most severe disciplinary action.
Suspension
A suspension temporarily removes a provider’s ability to practice until they meet reinstatement conditions.
Key Points:
- The provider cannot work as an EMS professional during the suspension period.
- Reinstatement is possible only after completing required conditions.
- Failure to comply may result in revocation.
Certification and Registration Application Actions: Denial and Refusal to Renew
Denial of Licensure
Denial occurs when an individual fails to meet initial licensing requirements or has a history that prevents approval.
Key Points:
- May result from criminal history, previous disciplinary actions, or failure to meet qualifications.
- Some denials allow for a future application if the provider meets eligibility requirements.
Refusal to Renew
Refusal to renew prevents a provider from continuing to practice EMS after their certification or license expires.
Key Points:
- Usually due to non-compliance with renewal requirements or pending disciplinary issues.
- The provider may be required to resolve outstanding issues before reapplying.
- I the issue is serious, OEMS may escalate the case to suspension or revocation.
Reinstatement Opportunities
The Minnesota Office of EMS (OEMS) recognizes that individuals may take corrective steps to regain their certification after an enforcement action. Minnesota law provides a structured pathway for reinstatement under Minnesota Statute 144E.
Who Can Apply for Reinstatement?
Individuals whose EMS credential has been:
- Denied, revoked, placed under conditions, or refused renewal for disciplinary reasons.
- Issued a determination or order affecting their ability to practice.
- Subject to a voluntary surrender or other disciplinary agreement.
When Can You Apply?
- Under Minnesota Statute 144E, individuals may apply for reinstatement after six months from the director’s decision.
- If an individual has entered into an enforcement agreement, order, or determination with a longer time restriction, they must honor the terms of that agreement before applying.
How to Apply for Reinstatement
- Ensure you have met all compliance and corrective action requirements outlined in your enforcement agreement.
- Submit a reinstatement application to OEMS, including any required documentation.
- If applicable, complete any required evaluations, retraining, or monitoring conditions before applying.
Maintaining compliance ensures you can continue serving as an EMS provider while upholding Minnesota’s EMS standards.
Contact Information for Compliance & Enforcement
For questions regarding compliance, disciplinary actions, or reporting requirements, contact:
