(1) MPDs may submit a proposal to conduct a pilot project to determine the need for training, skills, techniques, equipment, or medications that are not included in standard course curricula and instructional guidelines. A pilot project allows the MPD to conduct field research to determine:

(a) The effectiveness of the training;

(b) EMS provider knowledge and skills competency; and

(c) EMS provider ability to provide proper patient care after the training.

(2) To request approval of a pilot project, the MPD must submit a proposal on forms provided by the department at least 90 days prior to the start of the pilot project. Proposals must include all the following:

(a) Describe the pilot project and the need that the proposed pilot will address;

(b) Identify the proposed length of the pilot project. Projects may be approved for up to two years;

(c) Identify what training, skills, techniques, equipment, and medications will be included;

(d) Provide research to support that the proposal is an evidence-based practice relevant and appropriate to EMS activities;

(e) Identify the outcome the project is aiming to achieve, level of risk to patients, and the expected clinical outcomes;

(f) Provide information regarding the economic burden of additional hours of training, equipment, and other applicable costs;

(g) Identify the level of certified EMS providers who will be participating in the project and explain how it was determined that the provider level has the breadth and depth of knowledge needed to participate in the project;

(h) Describe how certified EMS providers will be trained and provide the course prerequisites, curriculum/lesson plans, including any student evaluations and examinations;

(i) Identify the instructional personnel required to conduct the pilot training. Instructional personnel must meet the requirements in WAC 246-976-031;

(j) Describe the medical oversight for the project and provide the proposed patient care protocols relevant to the activities being conducted;

(k) Describe the provisions for protecting patient safety;

(l) Describe quality assurance activities to include what data will be collected, the method of data collection, and evaluation; and

(m) Evaluate and determine if a review from an IRB is necessary and supply documentation to support the decision.

(3) The department will:

(a) Review the proposal;

(b) Determine what additional consultation with advisory groups is needed;

(c) Consult with the EMS and trauma care steering committee and any other applicable advisory groups as determined by the department, to determine the need for, and the expected benefits of the proposed activities if implemented statewide; and

(d) Make the final determination to approve or deny the request to conduct the proposed pilot project.

(4) The MPD must report the results of the pilot project to the department, applicable advisory groups, and the EMS and trauma care steering committee.

(5) Upon favorable results of the pilot project and with the recommendation of the EMS and trauma care steering committee, the department will make the final determination to approve or deny the proposed activities to continue in whole or in part and determine if the project will be implemented statewide on a mandatory or optional basis.