Resources

Tools, templates, and information for member agencies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Providence Corridor Health Systems? +
Providence Corridor is a nonprofit Regional EMS Consortium that prepares agencies across the Northeast for coordinated response to disasters, mass casualty incidents, and large-scale emergencies. While we facilitate day-to-day cooperation, our primary mission is ensuring agencies are ready to function as a unified network when catastrophic events occur. We build the disaster response relationships, establish crisis coordination frameworks, and conduct large-scale training exercises before disasters strike—because effective multi-agency coordination cannot be improvised during catastrophe.
How does Providence Corridor differ from state EMS associations? +
State associations operate within political boundaries, but EMS operations don't respect state lines. Providence Corridor works across jurisdictions to match the reality of how agencies function in an interconnected metropolitan region. We complement rather than replace state associations, focusing specifically on cross-jurisdictional coordination and interoperability.
Do I lose control of my agency by joining? +
Absolutely not. Providence Corridor never assumes operational control of member agencies. Every dispatch, deployment, and staffing decision remains entirely with your agency leadership. We simply make it easier to coordinate with other agencies when you choose to do so. Participation in any program or initiative is completely voluntary.
How does disaster coordination work? +
Providence Corridor prepares agencies for large-scale emergency coordination but never assumes operational control. We establish the frameworks, conduct the exercises, and build the relationships that enable agencies to coordinate effectively during disasters. When catastrophic events occur, agencies activate pre-established protocols and contact partners they've already trained with. We provide the infrastructure and preparation; agencies execute the actual disaster response directly with each other.
What does membership cost? +
Membership in Providence Corridor is 100% free for both agencies and individual first responders. We believe that regional preparedness and safety should not have a price tag. Our consortium is funded through grants and voluntary sponsorships from organizations that support our mission.
Can volunteer agencies participate fully? +
Yes. Providence Corridor treats paid, combination, and volunteer agencies as equal partners. Many of our programs are specifically designed to help volunteer agencies access resources and support they couldn't obtain independently. We believe every agency—regardless of staffing model—brings value to the regional network.
How do you handle liability for mutual aid? +
Liability arrangements are established in the mutual aid agreements between participating agencies, not by Providence Corridor. We provide template agreements that address liability, insurance, and indemnification based on best practices and legal review, but each agency pair negotiates their specific terms. We facilitate the conversation but don't insert ourselves into the legal relationship.
What if I have a conflict with another member agency? +
Providence Corridor can serve as a neutral facilitator for conflict resolution between member agencies, but we don't arbitrate or impose solutions. We provide a forum for open dialogue and can suggest professional mediators if needed, but ultimately agencies work out their differences directly. Our focus is on preserving relationships and finding solutions that work for everyone involved.
How long does it take to integrate into the disaster response network? +
Basic integration into our disaster response frameworks happens immediately upon joining—you gain access to coordination protocols, resource databases, and emergency contact networks right away. Full operational readiness for large-scale disaster coordination typically develops over six to twelve months as your agency participates in regional exercises, establishes relationships with partner agencies, and integrates consortium protocols into your disaster response plans. The investment in preparedness training pays critical dividends when actual catastrophic events occur and coordination must be instantaneous.
What technology do I need to participate? +
Basic participation requires only email and web access for communication and accessing our online resources. More advanced features like resource tracking and credentialing databases have web-based interfaces that work on any modern browser. We don't require agencies to adopt specific CAD systems, radios, or other expensive technology—our focus is on making agencies' existing systems work together better.

Member Resources

Active members have access to an extensive library of resources including:

Log in to the member portal to access these resources, or contact our support team for assistance locating specific materials.

Training Calendar

Providence Corridor coordinates a year-round schedule of training opportunities for member agencies. Programs include continuing education sessions, joint operational exercises, leadership development courses, and specialized training on topics including incident command, communications interoperability, and technical rescue operations. Check the member portal for the current training calendar and registration information.

Contact Information

Questions about resources, programs, or membership? Reach out to our team: