Who must local EMS notify when resuscitative efforts have been withheld or ceased and the patient is left in the field?

In situations where resuscitative efforts have been withheld or ceased, local EMS is required to notify the police. This protocol is in place to ensure that all legal and procedural guidelines are followed. The police play a critical role in these circumstances, as they may need to document the scene, conduct an investigation if there are questions regarding the cause of death, and handle any potential legal implications. Their involvement ensures that the appropriate measures are taken to protect the integrity of the situation and to provide necessary support to the EMS personnel on the scene.

The other groups listed, such as the patient's primary care provider or next of kin, are not typically involved in this immediate notification process as dictated by EMS protocols. While informing the next of kin may be necessary, it does not take precedence over informing law enforcement in this context. Notifications to a life insurance carrier are also not standard practice at the time of the event since this process occurs later in the aftermath of such cases. Thus, notifying the police is crucial for compliance with legal requirements and proper handling of the incident.