The Maryland Emergency Medical Services (EMS) System is a coordinated statewide network that includes volunteer and career EMS providers, medical and nursing personnel, communications, transportation systems, trauma and specialty care centers and emergency departments. The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) oversees and coordinates all components of the statewide EMS system in accordance with Maryland statute and regulation. This includes planning, operations, evaluation, and research. In addition, MIEMSS provides leadership and medical direction, conducts and supports EMS educational programs, operates and maintains a statewide communications system, designates trauma and specialty centers, licenses and regulates commercial ambulance services, and participates in EMS-related public education and prevention programs.