About the Bureau

For decades, the Idaho Bureau of Emergency Medical Services resided within the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW). On July 1, 2025, the Bureau officially became part of the Idaho Military Division (IMD). Enacted by the Idaho Legislature, the move aimed to improve EMS operations, collaborations, sustainability and funding opportunities to advance EMS throughout the state.

The Bureau consists of four interconnected branches: Emergency Care Systems, Planning and Resources, Idaho State Communications Center, and Time Sensitive Emergencies. Collaboratively, these branches focus on medical emergency preparedness, response, and sustainability; and operational efficiency, improvement and quality.

Due to Idaho’s geography, our emergency medical providers, statewide preparedness programs, and emergency dispatch communications face significant challenges when planning, preparing, and responding to the communities we serve. Distance and accessibility greatly impact the facilitation of these programs and services. Timely response and efficient coordination are vital to saving lives. The fluidity is dependent upon strong partnerships with volunteers, healthcare organizations, medical professionals, and state, local, and federal partners. The Bureau remains committed to supporting systems of emergency response, trauma, and preparedness through prevention efforts, leadership, accountability, and collaboration.