Medford Fire Department’s New EMS Squad Addresses Growing Demand

The Medford Fire Department unveiled a groundbreaking solution this week with the launch of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Squad Program.

This innovative program, consisting of a two-person crew, directly addresses the surging demand for medical and good intent calls. The program, while maintaining cost-efficiency, bolsters engine availability for critical needs and enhances the overall reliability of the EMS system.

Fire Chief Eric Thompson emphasized the urgent need for this program, revealing that a significant 83% of service calls fall under the “good intent” category. He stated, “Enhancing our response capabilities and reducing wait times for our residents have become imperative. Our dedication lies in improving emergency medical services and ensuring that our community receives timely and efficient care. The EMS Squad Program stands as a testament to our commitment to effective service.”

The EMS Squad Program features several key elements:

Cost-Effective Solution: This program efficiently manages operational expenses while meeting the rising demand for emergency medical services.
Increased Engine Availability: By deploying specialized EMS squads for medical and good intent calls, engine companies can now focus on higher acuity calls, ensuring they are more readily available for critical needs.
Matching the Right Resource to the Call Type: The program ensures that the appropriate resources are dispatched to each call, elevating the quality of service provided to the community.
Improved EMS System Reliability: With the introduction of a dedicated EMS squad, the Medford Fire Department aims to enhance the reliability and consistency of emergency medical services, guaranteeing that residents receive the care they need when they need it.
Reduced Wait Probability: Overlapping medical and good intent calls have historically led to a wait probability ranging from 8% to 12% during the day. The EMS squad is anticipated to significantly reduce wait times and address this issue, resulting in faster response times for residents.

The necessity for this program was identified as a crucial component of the Council-approved Fire Strategic Plan, which serves as a comprehensive roadmap meticulously designed to elevate fire services and foster community safety.