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    Emergency Medical Services Physician Advisory Council

    The EMS Physician Advisory Council offers expert medical advice to improve prehospital care in Minnesota. The council helps guide discussions and makes recommendations, but it does not create policies. Instead, it serves as an advisory group to the OEMS Director and Deputy Director of Medical Services.

    Purposes & Responsibilities

    Medical Services Council Responsibilities

    Council Membership

    The council is composed of experienced physicians specializing in emergency medical care, including:

    Medical Services Advisory Council

    Regional EMS Medical Directors: One physician appointed by each of Minnesota’s eight regional emergency services boards.
    Fire-Based EMS Medical Director: One physician appointed by the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association.
    Pediatric EMS Specialist: One board-certified pediatric physician appointed by the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services for Children program.
    EMS Advisory Council Medical Director: One physician from the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council.





    Current Emergency Medical Services Physician Advisory Council Members

    • Central Region EMS: Dr. Pete Tanghe
    • Metro Region EMS: Dr. Aaron Burnett
    • Northeast Region EMS (Arrowhead): Dr. Gary Foley
    • Northwest Region EMS: Vacant
    • South Central Region EMS: Dr. Mike Wilcox
    • Southeast Region EMS: Dr. Anuradha Luke
    • Southwest Region EMS: Dr. Marc Conterato
    • West Central Region EMS: Dr. Timothy Studer
    • Minnesota Fire Chiefs Association: Dr. Andrew Stevens (Chair)
    • Emergency Medical Services for Children: Dr. Anna DePompolo
    • Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council: Dr. Aaron Klassen (Vice-Chair)

    Council Operations

    While governed by a council charter, the council provides clinical recommendations and subject matter expertise to guide EMS operations and improve patient care. The group meets at least twice a year to review and discuss the status of EMS in Minnesota.

    Shaping the Future of EMS in Minnesota

    The EMS Physician Advisory Council plays a crucial role in shaping the future of prehospital care by offering expert medical insight and forward-thinking recommendations. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, this group helps ensure that Minnesota’s EMS system continues to evolve, meeting the needs of providers and patients alike. By staying ahead of emerging challenges and embracing advancements in emergency medicine, the council supports a stronger, more responsive, and patient-centered EMS system for generations to come.

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