How to monitor the effectiveness of an emergency medical dispatch system: The Houston model

The use of priority dispatch systems for emergency medical services (EMS) is widespread throughout the United States and in several other countries. It is essential that any such system be monitored to prove that it is safe and effective. A study of the EMS system in Houston, Texas, USA, has previously reported that the priority dispatch system can safely and reliably identify EMS incidents requiring only basic life support; the methods by which this was achieved are outlined here. In addition, the current and pending revisions to the Houston Fire Department Dispatch Quality Management Programme are discussed.