Medical Director for Sarasota County Fire Department Emergency Medical Services

Sarasota County is requesting proposals for Medical Director services to the Sarasota County Fire Department Emergency Medical Services under RFP #262860MN, with proposals due October 19, 2026. The County seeks a Florida-licensed physician certified in Emergency Medicine by the American Board of Emergency Medicine or American Board of Physician Specialties, holding valid DEA registration — the primary eligibility filter. Local and American business preferences do not apply due to grant funding requirements.

The Medical Director will provide oversight of all pre-hospital emergency medical services, including basic and advanced life support, emergency medical dispatch, and mobile integrated healthcare services. Responsibilities include protocol development and oversight, continuous quality improvement program implementation, EMS personnel training and competency assurance, monthly interaction with field personnel, participation in meetings and equipment reviews, and collaboration with other local EMS providers and healthcare agencies.

Preferred qualifications include at least five years of experience as Medical Director for an Advanced Life Support EMS system and experience directing EMS Quality Improvement activities. The Medical Director's protocols are currently used by SCFD and four other local fire agencies under separate contracts: Northport Fire and Rescue, Longboat Key Fire Department, Venice Fire Department, Englewood Fire District, and the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport Authority.

The initial contract term is five years. Proposers must submit compensation details including hourly rates and direct expense costs. Professional liability insurance with limits of not less than $5 million per claim/occurrence, commercial general liability of not less than $1 million per occurrence, and workers' compensation insurance are required. Proposals must be submitted through the County's electronic procurement portal, OpenGov Procurement. The County will evaluate written proposals and may require presentations from short-listed proposers. Award will be made to the proposer deemed most qualified to provide the required services and best value to the County.