11.2 Response to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Calls

This indicator is part of Residents are safe.

Indicator description:                                                           

Each year JEMS: The Journal of Emergency Medical Services ranks the 200 largest cities emergency medical services. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are rated on system design and response configuration, response time goals, dispatch and communications practices, first response and transport vehicle availability, clinical performance, and other technical EMS service areas. Cities are then ranked. Through 2003, Albuquerque was ranked 35th best out of the 200 largest cities. In 2004, Albuquerque advanced to 33rd best out of the 200 largest city Emergency Medical Services, and has retained this ranking. Local EMS response data is presented which includes the number of overall EMS calls, the number of Advanced Life Support (ALS) calls, and the total seconds from the receipt of the emergency call until units are dispatched. Advanced Life Support calls are those which require procedures such as cardiac monitoring, endotracheal intubation, intravenous therapy, and various cardiac arrest and trauma procedures.

Why is this indicator relevant?

Patient survival in life threatening emergency medical situations depends on prompt response, the provision of competent medical treatment, and quick transport to medical facilities designed to give complete care, usually the hospital emergency room. Studies show that delays negatively effect patient survival rates. Delays include patient/bystander delay in calling for help, dispatch time, and the travel time required for the properly equipped unit to reach the patient.

Data Sources:
JEMS: The Journal of Emergency Medical Services, "200-City Survey, 2001-2007"; City of Albuquerque Performance Plan, FY/09 Approved.

What can we tell from the data?

• Albuquerque's Emergency Medical Services were ranked 33rd best out of the 200 largest cities in the US.
• The local trend is positive. Although demand is increasing, in the forms of increasing EMS calls for service and the number of more serious EMS calls, the time between the incoming call and the dispatch of Albuquerque Fire Department units is dropping. This means units are on the scene more quickly and able to render aid.

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