Online medical control requires __________.

• A. written protocols approved by medical control
• B. phone or radio contact with the medical director
• C. the presence of an advanced-level provider
• D. a physician's presence on the scene of the call

Answer: (B)

Online medical control is real-time guidance from a physician during an EMS encounter. It hinges on direct communication with the medical director, typically by phone or radio, so the provider can receive orders for specific treatments or actions on the spot. Written protocols and standing orders are offline forms of control and don’t require live contact for each decision. The on-scene presence of a physician or an advanced-level provider isn’t required for online control—the essential element is being able to reach the medical director for real-time directives.