Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

Who oversees patient care in every EMS system?

1. a licensed physician

2. the primary hospital ED

3. the quality assurance board

4. the Advanced EMT providing the patient care

The correct answer is: a licensed physician

In every EMS system, patient care is overseen by a licensed physician. This is crucial because the physician's role is to ensure that the medical protocols and guidelines within the EMS system align with current medical standards and practices. Physicians are responsible for the overall quality of the care provided by EMTs and paramedics, including the development of treatment protocols and providing medical direction during emergencies. This oversight helps maintain a high standard of care and accountability, as the physician can offer guidance and support to EMS personnel in the field, especially in complex or unusual situations. Although other roles, like the quality assurance board, provide important administrative and evaluative functions, the direct oversight of patient care in real-time scenarios rests primarily with a licensed physician.