Which organization oversees regulations for emergency medical services in the U.S.?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the organization that oversees regulations for emergency medical services (EMS) in the United States. NHTSA plays a crucial role in shaping national EMS systems through the development of standards, policies, and funding initiatives to enhance emergency medical services. Their focus on improving the quality of emergency care, training protocols, and data collection for EMS systems is vital for ensuring effective and standardized emergency response across the nation.

While the Department of Health does have a role in public health and may influence local and state EMS regulations, it does not have the overarching authority specifically aimed at EMS oversight at the federal level. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is primarily concerned with disaster response and assistance rather than the regulation of EMS services. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on public health issues, disease prevention, and health promotion, but it does not regulate EMS. The NHTSA's dedicated efforts and focus on traffic safety inherently include the support and advancement of emergency medical services, making it the correct choice in this context.