Medical Advisory Committee (MAC)

The Council’s Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) has been the dominant influence in the development of advanced level care in the region. The Committee comprises emergency department directors, administrative representatives from the five regional hospitals, and EMS Coordinators. Besides providing medical oversight for the regional EMS program, the Committee has taken an active role in providing support and guidance to the Connecticut EMS Medical Advisory Committee (CEMSMAC) for establishing a statewide system of care that addresses local needs and resources. The Committee meets eight times a year on the third Wednesday of the month at 1:00 P.M. at Westport EMS.

Training and Education Committee

The Training Committee assists in the implementation of guidelines and policies adopted by the EMS Advisory Board as they apply to education and training and assists the regional MAC in researching and recommending medical treatment and training guidelines. Other responsibilities include, developing course examinations, coordinating seminars and quality assurance programs, and providing technical assistance to EMS Instructors. A member of this committee also sits on the EMS Advisory Board’s Training and Education Committee. The Committee meets eight times a year on the third Wednesday of the month at 11:00 A.M. at Wesport EMS.

Operations Committee/Mass Casualty Subcommittee

The Committee reviews and makes recommendations on issues dealing with ambulance service operations as requested by the Council’s Executive Board. Members also assist communities in the preparation of mass casualty response plans and conducts periodic review of approved plans to ensure ongoing compliance. The Committee assists communities in the preparation of written mutual aid agreements for mass casualty and day-to-day operations. Committee members also discuss, investigate and share information regarding new equipment. Meetings are held on an as-needed basis.

Needs and Necessity Committee

The Committee reviews applications for new or expanded emergency medical services based on “factors to be considered” in Section 19a-180-7 of the EMS regulations and makes recommendation to the Council’s Executive Board to either support or oppose all or part of the application.

Communications

The SouthWestern Regional Communications Center’s Board of Directors meets monthly to coordinate the regional communications network. Representation includes a member of the Southwest Council who serves as liaison between the Board and Council.