Which U.S. federal government agency establishes the national curriculum and regulations for EMS personnel and equipment?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) plays a pivotal role in establishing the national curriculum and regulations for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel and equipment. This responsibility stems from the DOT's authority to oversee and improve transportation safety, which includes the emergency medical services integral to responding to accidents and emergencies on the road.

The DOT's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) specifically is involved in developing EMS standards and guidelines including training and certification for EMS personnel. This ensures that EMS providers are properly educated and prepared to handle emergencies effectively, and that the equipment they use meets the necessary safety and operational standards.

In contrast, other agencies such as the Department of Defense, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration focus on different aspects of health, safety, and emergency response, but they do not set the national curriculum or regulations specifically for EMS. The Department of Defense primarily handles military-related matters, the CDC focuses on public health and disease prevention, and OSHA is dedicated to ensuring workplace safety rather than the specific training and regulation of EMS systems.