PITTSBORO, N.C. – FirstHealth of the Carolinas has made a significant investment in its Chatham EMS program, introducing advanced technology to improve emergency response times and patient outcomes.
The project includes the installation of Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) in each ambulance, directly connecting them to the Chatham County 911 Communications Center.
The MDTs provide real-time access to critical information collected from 911 callers, which is displayed on screens inside the ambulances. This streamlined communication enhances the efficiency of EMS crews by equipping them with vital details before arriving on the scene.
“This is a game changer for emergency services in Chatham County,” said Dave Moskowitz, supervisor with FirstHealth EMS Chatham.
“The integration of Mobile Data Terminals ensures our teams have the information they need to respond faster and more effectively, ultimately improving the care we provide to our community.”
An additional feature, “closest unit response,” is also in the works. This technology enables dispatchers to track the location of ambulances in real time and send the closest available unit to an emergency, rather than assigning units by district. Once implemented, this system will further reduce response times and enhance patient outcomes.
“We are pleased to have FirstHealth fully integrated in our mobile application, completing a system we’ve been building over the last couple years,” said Adam Gaines, assistant director, emergency communications for Chatham County. “Now, all responders in Chatham County—whether law enforcement, fire or EMS—have access to detailed information about current incidents while simultaneously sharing their locations with the 911 center. This improves dispatcher visibility and enhances the safety of all responders.”
With regard to the “closest unit response” system, Gaines added, “As we move closer to launching this system for FirstHealth EMS, we’re confident this will further reduce response times and elevate the service we provide to Chatham County residents. At Chatham 911, we strive to improve our service and support for emergency responders and the community we serve.”
Moskowitz added that FirstHealth’s investment in these upgrades underscores their commitment to the citizens of Chatham County. “By embracing innovative technology, we are ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care as quickly as possible.”
With more than 50 ambulances and 250 employees, the FirstHealth Regional EMS System is one of the largest ambulance systems in North Carolina, covering more than 3,000 square miles. FirstHealth of the Carolinas currently operates the 911 systems in the following North Carolina counties: Chatham, Montgomery, Lee and Richmond.
