Which term involves advising medical directors on protocols?

• A. Off-Line Medical Control
• B. Base Physician
• C. On-Line Medical Control
• D. Medical Control Board

Answer: (D)

Advising medical directors on protocols is the role of the Medical Control Board. This board acts as the advisory body that reviews, updates, and approves clinical protocols and standing orders to ensure they reflect current evidence, regulatory requirements, and the capabilities of the system. It typically includes medical directors, physicians, EMS leaders, and subject matter experts who provide recommendations to guide the medical director’s decisions and the protocols used in the field.

In contrast, On-Line Medical Control refers to real-time, physician-directed guidance during patient care; Off-Line Medical Control involves the development and authorization of standing orders and protocols used without live direction; the base physician is the clinician who provides direct, real-time orders in the field.