Under what circumstance can the Texas DSHS issue an emergency suspension order to an EMS provider?

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) can issue an emergency suspension order to an EMS provider specifically in circumstances that present an imminent danger to public safety. This authority allows the DSHS to act swiftly to remove a provider from operation when there is a credible threat that their continuation of service would pose a significant risk to the health and safety of the community. Such situations can include but are not limited to serious violations of safety protocols, ongoing malpractice, or failure to meet essential operational standards that could jeopardize patient care or the safety of EMS personnel.

The other scenarios provided do not align with the reasons for which an emergency suspension order would be implemented. A provider’s closure due to business reasons or an oversaturation of providers in an area do not directly relate to immediate threats to public safety, hence would not warrant such drastic measures. The focus on imminent danger underscores the DSHS's mission to protect the public and ensure that emergency medical services are reliable and safe.