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Pittsburg approves medical director agreement to expand firefighters' EMT capabilities
Summary
Commission approved a monthly medical director services contract with Dr. Timothy Stebbins to provide physician oversight so Pittsburg Fire EMTs can administer additional medications and treatments.
The Pittsburg City Commission approved a professional services agreement to engage Dr. Timothy Stebbins as the city’s medical director, a role staff said is required for Pittsburg Fire personnel to operate fully at their EMT license level.
Chiefs and staff explained the agreement creates medical oversight and protocols so firefighters who hold EMT licenses can administer items such as epinephrine, nitroglycerin, aspirin, nebulized breathing treatments, glucose/glucagon and naloxone. Dr. Stebbins described the purpose as: “Having a medical director is essential both legally and to give us that training, that oversight, that guidance on how we can practice and better serve our community.”
Commissioners asked whether the contract would make the fire department an ambulance service; staff and Dr. Stebbins emphasized it would not. Dr. Stebbins said he is not interested in converting the fire department into an ambulance service and described that effort as “a money loser.” The agreement also includes supervisor insurance coverage through the city while physicians carry their own malpractice coverage.
The contract was discussed in detail on timing and prior practice; commissioners noted all members of the current fire department hold EMT licenses and that the medical director role will allow those personnel to act under medical protocols. A motion to approve the professional services agreement passed by voice vote.
