Section 1031.6. Temporary suspension of EMS provider and EMS vehicle operator certifications

(a) Issuance of temporary suspension. The Department will issue an order temporarily suspending an EMS provider or EMS vehicle operator certification, without a hearing, if based upon evidence received that appears to be credible the Department determines that the person is a clear and immediate danger to the public health and safety.

(b) Notice and preliminary hearing. Notice of the temporary suspension will include a written statement of the factual allegations upon which the determination is based. Unless an extension of time is requested by the EMS provider or EMS vehicle operator, within 30 days after an order under subsection (a) is issued, the Department shall conduct a preliminary hearing to determine whether there is a prima facie case supporting the temporary suspension. The EMS provider or EMS vehicle operator may be present at the preliminary hearing and may be represented by counsel, cross-examine witnesses, inspect physical evidence, call witnesses and offer testimony and other evidence to rebut the prima facie case. If and when the Department determines that the evidence does not establish a prima facie case that the EMS provider or EMS vehicle operator is a clear and immediate danger to the public health and safety, the Department will immediately issue an order lifting the suspension.

(c) Beginning of formal disciplinary proceedings. After issuing an order under subsection (a), the Department shall begin formal disciplinary action under § 1031.3 or § 1031.5 (relating to discipline of EMS providers; and discipline of EMS vehicle operators).

(d) Duration of temporary suspension if prima facie case is established. If the Department determines that a prima facie case supporting the temporary suspension is established at the preliminary hearing, the temporary suspension shall remain in effect, but no longer than 180 days unless agreed upon by the parties.