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EMS-Trauma Systems

Welcome to the home page of the DSHS program that regulates EMS and trauma systems in Texas. This website contains information about EMS certification and licensure, trauma designation, how to contact us and more. Sign up to receive announcements by email regarding the EMS Trauma Systems program. This feature will serve as a tool to increase communication with stakeholders regarding new information added to the website.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Updates

Notice: Stay up to date on the latest COVID-19 information as it is made available on the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) COVID-19 web page at dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/.

EMS waivers extended February 27, 2022

DSHS has been notified that the staffing waiver TAC 157.11 (h) (1 through 6) WILL NOT be lifted on September 1st but has been extended until February 27, 2022. DSHS will forward all future details as received. The remaining waivers will be lifted on September 1, 2021 as announced.

COVID-19 EMS Information April 6, 2020

Due to the current COVID-19 state of disaster in Texas, the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) requested and the Office of the Governor granted EMS waivers and extensions.

COVID-19 Facility Designation Information Updated May 12, 2021

Due to postponement of onsite reviews, and increased demands on hospitals due to COVID-19, facilities may consider requesting an extension to their designation expiration date. Please review the guidance document and contact our office at DSHS.EMS-TRAUMA@dshs.texas.gov.

COVID-19 EMS Education Programs Information Updated July 29, 2020

Texas EMS Educational Programs may employ a broader array of approaches to determine competency.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)/COVID-19 Resources

For Regional Advisory Council (RAC) contacts for additional personal protective equipment (PPE)/COVID-19 Resources please view contact list

News/Features

Texas EMS Peer Referral Program Begins April 1, 2020
Attention EMS Personnel, EMS Providers and EMS Educators: Beginning June 1, 2020, all EMS certificate/license holders will need to have completed a fingerprint-based background check before their renewal application can be approved.

The following individuals are required to submit an application/form before completing the fingerprint process
If you are currently licensed or certified and have not completed the fingerprint-based background check please schedule your appointment through IdentoGO using DSHS’ code at https://uenroll.identogo.com/.
It is highly recommended that this process is completed in advance of the expiration date so there is not a lapse in certification. Click here to download a list of all EMS certificate/license holders that have already completed a fingerprint based background check for DSHS EMS..
FY 2017 Uncompensated Trauma Care Fund Distribution – June 2019 (July 3, 2019)