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Dallas fire dept. rolls out new 911 system

The new system cuts out the practice of “over triaging calls” and uses an algorithm to suggest to dispatchers what resources are needed

By EMS1 Staff

DALLAS — A new 911 system aims to save lives and prioritize resources.

CBS DFW reported that the new Medical Priority Dispatch System helps assign the proper response to each call by using algorithm software that assesses emergency factors and recommends necessary resources to dispatchers.

“We’re over triaging calls,” Dallas Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief Daniel Salazar said.

With the new technology, dispatchers can prioritize where they send the medical crews.

“It’d be nice if we could make requests for more ambulances, but that’s not necessarily the case. We’ve got limited budgets, so we know we have to get innovative,” Chief Salazar said. “We’re keeping those precious resources in service until such time that they’re really needed.”

A neighboring city has used a similar system for a few years, and said it also helps save money and is effective, according to Plano Fire-Rescue Chief Sam Greif said.

“I’m confident that it’s saved lives,” Chief Greif said.

https://twitter.com/BrittJeffersCBS/status/931110980817432576

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