The Minnesota Health Professionals Services Program (HPSP) provides a confidential and supportive alternative to formal discipline for health care professionals, including those in emergency medical services (EMS), who face illnesses that may affect their ability to practice safely. HPSP focuses on early intervention, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring to protect public safety while helping professionals access the care they need.
The OEMS recognizes the unique mental health and substance use challenges faced by EMS providers. Conditions such as PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders are prevalent in EMS due to repeated exposure to traumatic events like violence, death, and life-threatening situations. Studies show that 20–25% of EMS professionals experience PTSD—similar to military personnel—while 41.5% report issues like burnout and PTSD, and 20.9% report substance use concerns during their careers. These challenges often negatively impact quality of life and professional well-being. However, stigma surrounding mental health and substance use can prevent EMS professionals from seeking help. HPSP addresses this by offering confidential monitoring, promoting early treatment, and improving recovery outcomes.
EMS professionals may access HPSP through three referral pathways:
A referral does not automatically result in monitoring. HPSP’s review process determines eligibility and whether monitoring is necessary. OEMS is not informed about your status in the program or the outcome of your participation unless required at discharge. Discharge can be either satisfactory or unsatisfactory.
In most cases, participation in the Health Professionals Services Program (HPSP) is voluntary, confidential, and focused on supporting long-term recovery. If you self-refer, you’ll begin with an initial interview with a case manager. Depending on your situation, you may need to complete additional steps, such as providing medical records or undergoing assessments. If monitoring is needed, you will sign a Participation Agreement that outlines the program’s terms and duration, which typically lasts between 12 and 60 months. While monitoring is free, participants are responsible for their own treatment costs and any required toxicology screenings. Employers may provide quarterly progress updates, but the information shared is strictly on a need-to-know basis. In rare cases, participation in HPSP may be required under an OEMS order to ensure proper monitoring. However, the majority of participants join the program voluntarily.
If no illness is identified, your case will be closed without notification to your licensing board unless the referral was made by OEMS. While your employment status does not affect eligibility, the validity of your certification or registration does. You must hold a current credential from one of Minnesota's health licensing boards, the OEMS, or the Department of Health to receive services from HPSP.
HPSP’s services are available to over 200,000 licensed health care professionals in Minnesota. By partnering with HPSP, OEMS ensures public safety while fostering mental health and resilience among EMS professionals. Programs like HPSP provide a critical pathway for practitioners to seek help without fear of stigma or career consequences, contributing to a healthier, more sustainable EMS workforce.
For more information or to begin the referral process, follow this link or contact HPSP directly at (651) 642-0487.
