(NC) County launches new paramedic dispatch program
This is an example of the types of EMS delivery transformations that communities are considering to enhance clinical proficiency, improve operational effectiveness, and increase fiscal efficiency in EMS delivery.
The economic model for transformations like this are a bit challenging. The Q2 PWW|AG Financial Index revealed that nationally, 39% of ambulance Treatment in Place (TIP) claims are paid, with an average reimbursement per paid claim of $398.
There is limited reimbursement opportunity for a non-ambulance response TIP claim.
However, there may be cost savings by not needing to hire additional staff to respond ambulances to these types of calls, which could be modeled as a cost savings to the community.
Kudos to Onslow County Emergency Services for implementing this change!
County launches new paramedic dispatch program
By Daily News staff
Sep 22, 2025
https://www.jdnews.com/news/local/county-launches-new-paramedic-dispatch-program/article_e4d4b628-7199-5e0f-a6d4-25b4c0698ec5.html
Onslow County Emergency Services has implemented a new innovative dispatch method for calls requiring a paramedic response.
Under the new system, paramedics will have greater flexibility to respond to calls that may not require an Emergency Medical Services unit with an ambulance, county officials said.
Previously, EMS units responded to all six levels of emergency medical dispatch. Paramedics are now automatically dispatched to the lowest-level calls, as well as fall calls without injury that only require a lift assist.
Low-level calls typically involve nonemergent conditions, like fevers, sore throats, flu-like symptoms, rashes or minor injuries, county officials said.
When a paramedic arrives on scene, they conduct a full patient assessment, which helps determine whether an emergency room visit is needed or if the patient can be served by other resources, such as an urgent care or primary care provider.
Bradley Kinlaw, Onslow County Emergency Services director, said the changes will make EMS response more agile and focused.
“Not every medical call needs an ambulance,” Kinlaw said. “Now when someone calls 911 for something like lift assistance or other minor issues, we can send a community paramedic, which ensures that ambulances are available for the most serious calls.”
The improvements being made to EMS dispatching represent Onslow County’s commitment to the recently adopted strategic plan, county officials said.
One of the focus areas, Healthy and Safe Community, prioritizes investment in first responder services to ensure the safety of citizens.