
About EMS West
EMS West is a nonprofit (501.C.3) corporation that provides technical and financial assistance to the development of a coordinated emergency medical services system primarily throughout 16 counties in western Pennsylvania.
Within its region, EMS West is responsible for:
- Licensure of Ambulances
- Training and Credentialing of EMS Personnel
- Accreditation of Medical Command Hospitals and Other Medical Command Facilities
- Accreditation of Training Institutes
- Quality Assurance within the EMS Community
- Public Information and Education
- Data Collection Regarding EMS Activities
We perform a dual role. We represent the interests of the Department of Health of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and we represent the interests of both the general public and the EMS / Emergency Response community to the Department of Health.
Additionally, we offer to the EMS community a major training conference, “EMS Update“, every year in March. We also host various activities to recognize the contributions made by EMS personnel.
Our office hours are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Please note that EMS West follows the state holiday schedule.

HONOR GUARD
The Western PA EMS Honor Guard is a unified group of EMS Agencies, presenting a highly disciplined team serving with honor, pride, respect and dignity at ceremonial functions which include funeral services and community events

Resources for EMS Professionals
You can access DOH EMS Information Bulletins, News, the EMS Job Board, regional documents and forms as well as Resources/Links of interest.
2023 EMS West Annual Report
Interested in getting an EMS certification?
Are you interested in becoming an EMR, EMT, AEMT and/or Paramedic? If yes, click here for a listing of classes near you.
EMS Update-That’s A Wrap
What an amazing year this has been! The pandemic has turned our lives upside-down and forced us to re-think everything we do. EMS Update...
EMS Update Live Stream ’21
CLICK HERE to login to EMS Update Live Stream. Pre-registration is required. If you have not yet registered, click here for instant...