Medford Fire Celebrates One Year Anniversary of EMS Squad Program
Published on October 18, 2024
Medford Fire Department Celebrates One Year Anniversary of EMS Squad Program
Council-Approved Initiative Enhances Emergency Services with Two Active Squads
The Medford Fire Department (MFD) proudly marks the one-year anniversary of its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Squad Program, a key initiative designed to meet the growing demand for medical and good intent calls while enhancing emergency response capabilities.
Approved by the Medford City Council through the department’s Strategic Plan, the program has proven so successful that two active squads are now on duty to serve the community.
Over the past year, the EMS squads have responded to a total of 1,460 calls, intercepting 712 calls that would have otherwise required a fire engine or truck company. This strategic deployment has allowed MFD to improve engine availability, ensuring that our community receives timely care when they need it most. The squads have spent 385 hours and 30 minutes assigned to calls, providing essential medical assistance and keeping engines ready for higher-acuity situations. By intercepting medical calls from fire engines, the program has optimized response times.
Fire Chief Eric Thompson commended the program's achievements: "Our EMS Squad Program has made a tremendous impact on our ability to provide effective and timely medical response. With two squads now in operation, we are further enhancing our service to the community, reducing wait times, and ensuring that our engines remain available for fire emergencies."
Key outcomes of the EMS Squad Program include:
- Reduced Wait Times: The deployment of squads has reduced wait times for overlapping medical and good intent calls, improving service for residents by preventing delays.
- Improved Engine Availability: By intercepting EMS calls, the squads help ensure that engine companies are available for fire/rescue emergencies.
- Strategic Resource Allocation: The program matches the right resource to the call type, resulting in a more efficient and reliable EMS system.
- Cost Efficiency: The squads provide a cost-effective solution to address the increasing demand for emergency medical services, maximizing operational efficiency.
The EMS Squad Program was identified as a priority in the Council-approved Fire Strategic Plan, a comprehensive roadmap aimed at enhancing fire services and improving overall community safety. The program’s success is a testament to the department’s commitment to forward-thinking solutions and dedication to meeting the needs of Medford’s growing population.
About the EMS Squad Program
Launched in 2023 with City Council approval and funding from a utility bill increase, the EMS Squad Program consists of two-person crews dedicated to responding to medical and good intent calls. This initiative has reduced strain on engine companies by intercepting medical calls, allowing them to focus on fire/rescue emergencies while ensuring prompt medical response for residents.