OEMS to issue Temporary EMT Certifications
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) continues to work with state, federal and local partners on the outbreak of novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, and we continue to appreciate the essential role you have in responding to this evolving situation.
In accordance with the Commissioner of Public Health’s April 3, 2020 order maximizing health care provider availability, to respond to Governor Baker’s declared State of Emergency, the Department is issuing temporary EMT certification, upon request, to applicants who either:
Currently hold EMT certification/licensure, at any level) in another state, which has not been revoked, suspended, surrendered or are otherwise not in good standing in another state; OR
Previously held Massachusetts EMT certification, but it has expired within the last 10 years (at any level). This does not include certifications that have been revoked, suspended or surrendered.
Applicants may request these temporary certifications by emailing oems.recert@state.ma.us, or by completing the attached application form (soon to be available on the DPH/Office of Emergency Medical Services website), and submitting it to the office by FAX or mail, along with copies of their current CPR credential (and ACLS for Paramedics). DPH will not accept or review requests for temporary certification from applicants who do not have current CPR or ACLS, as appropriate to their level, credentials. Note that due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency, any CPR or ACLS credential that expired on or after February 1, 2020, is deemed current through July 1, 2020. Applicants who currently or have previously held certification in other states will need to provide a verification from the other states (the applicant must request verification from the state in which the applicant is certified; that state (or states) must complete the form and submit it directly to DPH/OEMS). National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) certification is not required for temporary certification, and there is no fee.
Once OEMS receives a complete application, we will expedite review and processing, and temporary EMTs will receive an email confirmation once the temporary certification has been issued. Temporary certifications will be immediately visible at https://checkalicense.hhs.state.ma.us, and may be verified there at any time.
Temporary certifications will remain valid until the termination of the state of emergency for out of state EMTs, and 90 days following the termination of the state of emergency for previously MA certified EMTs. Temporary EMTs who wish to become fully certified as EMTs after their temporary certification expires must meet all the standard regulatory entry/reinstatement requirements (including holding National Registry certification).
Temporary EMTs may function in connection with a licensed ambulance service at the full scope of practice for their level – but must do so in accordance with Statewide Treatment Protocols and must have received authorization to practice from the service’s affiliate hospital medical director. Ambulance services are responsible for ensuring Temporary EMTs receive required education/orientation and authorization to practice before they begin to work.
Please contact oems.recert@state.ma.us with any additional questions