U.S. county implements hybrid staffing model for ambulances
OREGON, UNITED STATES — Multnomah County has announced a significant change in its ambulance staffing model to address persistent issues with emergency response times.
The county will now allow some ambulances to operate with one paramedic and one Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), diverging from the long-standing requirement of two paramedics per ambulance.
This shift is a response to mounting public pressure and a national shortage of paramedics that has exacerbated local service challenges.
Pilot program to improve emergency services
Starting August 1, the county will embark on a 12-month pilot program to evaluate the effectiveness of this hybrid staffing model. The decision follows extensive negotiations with American Medical Response (AMR), the region’s primary ambulance provider.
The agreement is contingent on AMR meeting specific performance benchmarks over the next three months. If successful, this initiative aims to enhance the county’s ambulance response capabilities during a time when many residents feel underserved.
“This agreement improves ambulance response times and holds AMR accountable,” stated Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson. “When someone needs an ambulance, every second counts.”
Pederson’s comments emphasize the urgency of the situation and the high expectations placed on AMR to deliver improved services.
Balancing care quality and response times
Rob McDonald, AMR’s regional director, expressed optimism about the new agreement, describing it as a “real win for the citizens of Multnomah County.” He believes the changes will enable AMR to deploy more ambulances effectively and improve service delivery. The hybrid staffing model is expected to lead to more timely assistance for those in need.
The decision to revise the staffing model comes after prolonged mediation discussions, highlighting the county’s concerns over AMR’s slow response times. Residents have reported delays in receiving ambulance services, leading to critical situations where no ambulances were available to respond, known as “Level Zero” incidents.
Challenges and future implications
The previous system of two paramedics per ambulance was intended to ensure high levels of care. However, critics argue that this model contributed to delays, especially for lower-acuity calls that do not require the advanced capabilities of two paramedics.
By allowing a mix of EMTs and paramedics, AMR aims to respond more quickly to a broader range of emergencies while still providing adequate care.
The new model requires AMR to maintain at least 20 Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances staffed with two paramedics, alongside sufficient Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances to respond to at least 85% of lower-acuity calls. AMR will also deploy hybrid ambulances, adjusting staffing to meet differing emergency needs more adeptly.
Despite the promising nature of these changes, tensions remain. County officials, including Commissioner Sharon Meieran, have criticized the prolonged period it took to reach an agreement with AMR.
“What today proves… is that Multnomah County leadership has wasted almost a year and a half of precious moments,” she stated.
As the pilot program unfolds, Multnomah County officials and emergency medical personnel will closely monitor AMR’s performance. The approval of this new model could set a significant precedent for how emergency medical services adapt to evolving community needs and workforce challenges.
