COMDTINST 6320.9 — Emergency Medical Services (ems)

COMDTINST 6320.9 governs Coast Guard emergency medical services policy, guidance, levels of care, and practitioner requirements.

Search COMDTINST 6320.9

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 6320.9
  • Title: EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS)
  • Date: 4/22/2025
  • Proponent: CG-1K2

View COMDTINST 6320.9 on armypubs.army.mil


It defines the EMS system, authorized practitioners, certification, licensing, credentialing, and clinical privileging. It establishes care levels and requirements for training, patient care, equipment, medical oversight, and reporting.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in charge, deputy and assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarters staff elements shall comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • Emergency Medical Services system
  • Scope of practice
  • Levels of care
  • EMS practitioner credentialing
  • Patient care guidelines
  • Medical equipment
  • Naloxone administration
  • Clinical privileging

Questions and answers

Who must comply with COMDTINST 6320.9?

All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in charge, deputy and assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarters staff elements shall comply with the policies contained. (paragraph 2)

What is the primary mission of the Coast Guard EMS system?

The primary mission of the Coast Guard EMS system is the preservation of life and the provision of emergency medical care to our servicemembers.

Can non-military EMS practitioners use state licensure instead of NREMT certification?

Non-military EMS practitioners who operate under local county/state medical direction shall follow local requirements which may include state licensure instead of NREMT certification.

Are First Aid/CPR/AED-only members eligible to become credentialed EMS practitioners?

Members certified in only First Aid/CPR/AED are not eligible to be credentialed EMS practitioners.

What guidelines must Coast Guard EMS personnel follow for patient care?

All Coast Guard EMS personnel shall follow patient care guidelines in accordance with Department of Homeland Security EMS Protocols References (g) and (h), unless superseded by a more specific Coast Guard directive or policy.

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