Bill would create EMS behavioral-health training, optional advanced endorsement and pilots

House Bill 1809 would require the University of Washington—behavioral health crisis outreach, response and education center (BH Core) to develop training for emergency medical services personnel who respond to behavioral-health emergencies and authorize optional advanced certification for EMS providers.

Supporters, including the bill—s prime sponsor, Representative Craig Nance, Kitsap County, told the House Health Care & Wellness Committee on Feb. 14 that the measure aims to give firefighters, EMTs and paramedics tools to stabilize and refer people in crisis to nonemergency services when appropriate.

"Neighbors experiencing behavioral health crisis need compassionate care and they need referrals to life saving services," Representative Craig Nance said. "Vast majority of folks don't need to be in emergency rooms."

Under the proposal, the BH Core at the University of Washington would develop a training course that the state Department of Health could recognize as an optional recertification module for certified EMS professionals. The bill would also create an optional EMS endorsement in advanced…