RCW 18.73.030 defines Emergency Services Supervisory Organization (ESSO) means an entity that is authorized by the secretary to use certified emergency medical services personnel to provide medical evaluation or initial treatment, or both, to sick or injured people, while in the course of duties with the organization for on-site medical care prior to any necessary activation of emergency medical services. Emergency services supervisory organizations include law enforcement agencies, disaster management organizations, search and rescue operations, diversion centers, and businesses with organized industrial safety teams.
WAC 246-976-261 Emergency Services Supervisory Organization (ESSO).
WAC 246-976-300 Equipment - Emergency services supervisory organizations (ESSO) must provide equipment listed to their on-site EMS providers for the service levels they are approved by the department to provide when they are available for service.
Below are questions and answers about ESSO eligibility criteria, requirements for ESSOs, and the process to apply for recognition as an ESSO.
- What type of organization qualifies to apply to be recognized as an ESSO?
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Federal, state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency;
Disaster management organizations within Washington state that deploy county emergency management teams during disasters. A letter of endorsement from the appropriate department of emergency management having jurisdiction must be provided with the application for recognition as an ESSO;
Organizations conducting search and rescue (SAR) operations. This includes:
- Ski patrol organizations that provide medical, rescue, and hazard prevention services and medical care to sick and injured people in ski area boundaries or sometimes into backcountry settings and remote environments; or
- SAR organizations functioning under chapter 38.52 RCW. A letter of endorsement from the local chief law enforcement officer (usually the county sheriff) must be provided with the application for recognition as an ESSO for search and rescue operations;
Diversion centers. These are organizations that provide short-term placement and shelter to homeless adults with substance use disorders or behavioral health issues. Diversion centers offer services to divert people away from incarceration and toward treatment; or
Businesses with organized industrial safety teams such as refineries, large manufacturing plants, mining operations, or aerospace manufacturing plants.
- How do I apply for ESSO recognition?
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Complete and submit the EMS Provider Supervisory Organization Application Packet (PDF) found on the EMS Service and Vehicle Licensing and Verification page.
- What needs to be included in the application?
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Provide an operational plan that meets the requirements identified on the application and a current list of certified EMS personnel. Operational plan specifics can be found in the EMS Provider Supervisory Organization Application Packet (PDF).
- What are the equipment requirements for ESSO?
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Emergency services supervisory organizations (ESSO), licensed and verified ground ambulances, and aid services must provide equipment listed in Table A of WAC 246-976-300.
- Are there staffing requirements for ESSO?
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Recognized ESSO are required to use certified emergency medical services providers who work under the medical oversight and protocols of a department-approved county medical program director. The provider type may vary are based upon the mission and needs of the organization.
- What signatures are required prior to submitting the application?
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The application process requires three signatures.
- The organization’s representative.
- Local EMS and Trauma Care Council Chair Statement and Signature. The Regional EMS and Trauma Care Council Chair Signature is required, if a local EMS and Trauma Care Council does not exist.
- Medical program director statement and signature.
- How do I contact the local or Regional EMS and Trauma Care Council?
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You may obtain information about your local council by contacting your local EMS system or the Regional EMS and Trauma Care Council administrator. A link is provided below which will allow you to determine which region your county is in and the other to provide you with regional council contact information.
- Regional Map
- Regional Administrator
- How often do ESSOs need to renew their recognition?
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Recognitions are valid for two years. To renew their recognition they need to submit an application found on the EMS Service and Vehicle Licensing and Verification page. It is recommended to start the renewal process at least 30 days prior to expiration.
- Have additional questions or need assistance?
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Contact the department via email or call 360-236-2851.