In order to provide a more comprehensive emergency medical system it was recommended that the Fire Districts develop a Joint Powers Authority. In 1996 the El Dorado County Regional Prehospital Emergency Services Operations Authority (JPA) was formed for the purpose of ensuring automatic aid between the fire agencies for the delivery of an extensive, prehospital emergency medical service in an efficient manner without regard to jurisdictional boundaries. A joint Emergency Command Center would dispatch the closest fire unit and the simultaneous dispatch, the closest medic unit (ambulance). Key components of the JPA system include: • Medical Control • Centralized Dispatch Center with Emergency Medical Dispatch Trained Personnel • Single West Slope of the County Emergency Emergency Transport System • Cross Training of EMS Personnel • Rescue and Extrication Expertise • Equipment Maintenance & Management • Firefighter/Paramedic Personnel from Sub-contracting Fire Agencies Staffing the Ambulances • Compliance with Standards Sub-contracting Fire agencies to the JPA operate the medic units and are paid an annual fixed rate for their costs with funds from CSA7. These costs include personnel, operating expenses, equipment and administrative overhead. Non-transporting sub-contracting fire agencies do not receive funds from CSA7 for medical supplies and training. Some of these agencies operate full-time paramedic engines while others operate part-time advanced life support engines.