a system for telephone access to report emergencies. A dispatcher takes the information and alerts EMS or the fire or police departments as needed.
designated agent
an EMT or other person authorized by a Medical Director to give medications and provide emergency care. The transfer of such authorization to a designated agent is an extension of the Medical Director's license to practice medicine.
on-line medical direction
consists of orders from the on-duty physician given directly to an EMT in the field by radio or telephone
standing orders
a policy or protocol issued by a Medical Director that authorizes EMTs and others to perform particular skills in certain situations.
medical direction
oversight of the patient-care aspects of an EMS system by the Medical Director
enhanced 911
same as the 911 system except it has the additional capability of automatically identifying the caller's phone number and location.
off-line medical direction
consists of standing orders issued by the Medical Director that allow EMTs to give certain medications or perform certain procedures without speaking to the Medical Director or another physician.
quality improvement
a process of continuous self-review with the purpose of identifying and correcting aspects of the system that require improvement.
Medical Director
a physician who assumes ultimate responsibility for the patient care aspects of the EMS system
protocols
lists of steps, such as assessments and interventions, to be taken in different situations. Protocols are developed by the Medical Director of an EMS system.
