The management of medical emergencies, whether from traffic accidents or sudden illnesses, has been a concern of the medical community for many years. Physicians, hospitals, nurses, and allied health personnel have been quietly but steadfastly working to improve emergency medical service care and have made great strides. This is not to say that the task is completed, but neither is it in a holding pattern. The American Medical Association has been working with other groups to improve the design of ambulances, the training of ambulance personnel, the categorization of hospital emergency capabilities, the development of disaster plans, the promotion of community councils for emergency medical services, and the promotion of scientific programs to increase the emergency skills of the physician. We are indebted to all medical and lay groups that have helped. The entire medical community looks on this task as a Constant and ongoing endeavor. Advances in medicine and