Travel vs. Transport and Immunity Under Illinois’ EMS Act

The Illinois EMS Systems Act provides broad immunity to licensed EMS providers for medical services rendered in good faith, except in cases of willful and wanton misconduct—but determining when those services begin is critical. Illinois courts have held that immunity extends to preparatory conduct once providers arrive at the scene and begin locating or assisting a patient, but not to nonemergency travel to a patient. By contrast, patient transport—even in nonemergency situations—falls squarely within the Act’s protections, underscoring that EMS immunity turns on the nature and timing of the conduct, not merely the act of driving.