From the ETMC EMS communications center, state-of the-art technology allows dispatchers to track the status and locations of all ground ambulances and two helicoptors throughout the extensive service area of East Texas. When seconds count, dispatchers can quickly determine the available unit closest to an emergency scene.
Using Global Positioning System technology, ambulances can be tracked to within 15 meters of their location. Information is displayed on a large viewing screen in the com center, and ambulance status is color-coded so dispatchers can determine at a glance whether a vehicle is available, is involved in a life-saving situation or patient transport.
The system is a part of ETMC EMS' effort to maintain its swift response times which include an 8-minute, 59-second urban response 90 percent of the time. "It's exciting work. There's a lot of stress but it can be very gratifying. Sometimes we give help from the com center before the ambulances arrive. We've actually delivered babies. When you hear that cry in the background, it's an unbelievable experience." -- - Ron Owens, communications supervisor
Covering approximately 10,000 square miles, the radio network is one of the largest public safety radio/data networks in Texas. The network is owned and operated by ETMC EMS and operates with a Radio Users Group appointed by participating government agencies and under APCO radio standards. Support for network users is available through a 24-hour "help line".
Each dispatcher is certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD). These highly trained dispatchers are trained to provide medically approved pre-arrival instructions such as CPR, to callers who have emergencies such as heart attacks or difficulty breathing.
As part of the ongoing effort for quality assurance, ETMC EMS is a member of the National Academy of Emergency Medical Dispatch, a standard-setting organization which strives to promote excellence in all areas of medical dispatch.
For more information call
1-800-642-5646
EMS COMMUNICATIONS Communication from the Communications Center to ground ambulances is made possible by a composite analog/digital 800MHz Trunked Radio network designed and built using Motorola SmartZone and Simulcast technologies. The communications network also supports local public safety radios users who cost share the radio infrastructure, thus enabling agencies to participate at a reduced cost to taxpayers. Currently the following agencies have radios on the radio network: City of Tyler (Police, Fire and Municipal Services), Smith County (Sheriff's Office, Constables, VFD's, Fire Marshall's Office, District Attorney's Office, and Road & Bridge), Tyler Junior College Police, Tyler ISD, City of Bullard, City of Whitehouse, City of Arp, City of Troup, and Texas DPS. Trunked radio systems offer the added benefits of improved communication efficiency as well as greater privacy and flexibility. Frequencies are pooled and shared between users, providing them with the ability to access more channels than a stand-alone, conventional network. This cost-effective operation allows each agency to share in the benefits of reduced radio network costs while retaining control of their own radio operations.
