IDHS Names New EMS Medical Director
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The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has named Dr. Eric Yazel as the new chief medical director for Indiana EMS. He currently serves as Clark County health officer and succeeds Dr. Michael Kaufmann, who stepped down in April.
Alongside Indiana EMS Section Director Kraig Kinney, the IDHS says Yazel will help guide laws and administrative rules governing the EMS system.
“I’m excited for Dr. Yazel to join IDHS as Indiana EMS medical director,” said IDHS Executive Director Steve Cox. “He is an energetic, experienced, and well-respected physician who has worked in emergency medicine and public health for many years, and we look forward to him bringing his record of successes to communities across the state.”
Yazel’s background also includes public health experience, including leadership positions with health systems, hospitals, and emergency medicine.
“We’re at a critical time for EMS right now,” Yazel said. “We have a lot of momentum, and I want to get out and be visible in the state to stay in tune with the boots on the ground and understand the challenges of all the EMS systems in Indiana.”
By statute, the department’s executive director appoints the medical director, which also must be approved by the Indiana EMS Commission. The IDHS says the EMS medical director is a key position because of the leadership and strategy it provides emergency medical personnel across the state.
Yazel’s first day will be May 31.