In a situation where a pedestrian is struck, who is in charge of all patient care decisions when multiple agencies are involved?

In incidents involving multiple agencies, the responsibility for patient care decisions often falls to the highest-level medical provider present at the scene. In many jurisdictions, this means that paramedics have the authority to take control of medical care and make decisions regarding treatment, transport, and other critical factors for the patient's well-being. Volunteer paramedics, like their career counterparts, are trained extensively in emergency medical care and often hold certifications that allow them to function as the lead medical responders in such scenarios.

The role of Fire Department EMTs typically includes providing essential life-saving measures and support but may be subordinate to the decision-making authority of paramedics, particularly if advanced medical interventions are required. Police officers primarily focus on securing the scene and ensuring safety, rather than making medical decisions. The Fire Chief, while a respected authoritative figure, does not specifically have the medical training to make patient care decisions unless they are also a trained medical responder with the appropriate certifications.

Thus, volunteer paramedics are positioned as the suitable choice because they are equipped with the right training and authority to lead patient care decisions in a multi-agency response involving a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.