In the critical moments of disaster response, the interface between EMS and hospital command can either save time—or cost lives. This presentation explores the operational, cultural, and procedural divides that often exist between Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Hospital Incident Command Systems (HICS) during crises, and how proactive collaboration can lead to seamless transitions and unified response. Drawing on over 30 years of field and hospital experience, this session unpacks real-world examples—including mass casualty incidents, severe weather events, and large-scale planned events—to examine where command systems succeed and where they falter. Attendees will learn how to align language, roles, communication tools, and decision-making structures across agencies. Through scenario-based discussion, audience engagement, and evidence-based frameworks, participants will gain practical solutions for improving interoperability, situational awareness, and surge coordination across the prehospital-to-hospital continuum.
840 Armed Forces Dr
Ashwaubenon, WI 54304
United States
1. Analyze common points of failure and friction between EMS and Hospital Incident Command during crisis situations, and evaluate how these breakdowns impact patient care continuity, surge capacity, and overall incident management.
2. Apply evidence-based strategies to synchronize EMS and hospital command structures, including unified communication protocols, cross-training, and shared situational awareness tools that support seamless transitions and joint decision-making.
3. Develop role-specific action steps for improving interagency coordination and response outcomes, including recommendations for integrating EMS into hospital emergency operations plans (EOPs), facilitating joint exercises, and aligning HICS/ICS language and priorities.