Index
Abstract
Dedication
Preface
Definition of EMS for this Document
Federal Agencies Can Help Advance EMS Research
Executive Summary
Introduction
History of EMS Research
The Present State of EMS Research
Overcoming the Barriers to EMS Research

• Primary Barriers: Developing Researchers
• Primary Barriers: Funding
• Secondary Barriers: Recognizing the Need for EMS Research
  • The Culture of EMS
  • EMS Systems
  • EMS Education
  • The Public and Policy Makers
  • EMS Professionals
• Secondary Barriers: Information Systems
  • Data Definitions
  • Hardware and Software Infrastructure
  • Data Set Linkages
  • Statistical Implications of Large Databases
• Secondary Barriers: Ethical Concerns
  • Principles
  • Informed Consent
  • IRBs and EMS Research
  • Valuing Individual Autonomy

Summary
Appendix A: The National EMS Research Agenda Writing Team
Appendix B: Organizations Invited to Participate in the National Review Team
Appendix C: Ethical Standards and IRB Requirements
Appendix D Inclusion Of Women And Minorities In Research Study Populations Involving Human Subjects
Inclusion Of Children As Participants In Research Involving Human Subjects
Appendix E: Bibliographic List of Internet Links
Appendix F: Published EMS Randomized Clinical Trials
References

Valuing Individual Autonomy

Current ethical guidelines, as written, value individual autonomy over other competing values. At the same time, the only way to ensure public and government support for research activities is to ensure the safety of all research subjects. In overcoming the barriers to EMS research posed by ethical constraints, EMS researchers must follow the federal law while at the same time championing rational revision of the regulations. Reaching this goal will require consensus among regulators, researchers, clinicians and the general public.

Sources for complete information about ethical standards and IRB requirements are listed in appendix C of this document.