title: Implementation of a computerized management information system in an urban fire department.
abstract: An important aspect in the effective management of an emergency medical services system is the ability to monitor system performance. To provide this information on a timely basis, a comprehensive data collection system is required. We describe the design, implementation, use, and effect of a comprehensive, computerized data retrieval system within an urban fire department. Building on a data collection system already in place, it was possible to minimize the cost and accelerate the training process. A comparison is included between the different type of systems available for use with prehospital providers. Use of prehospital data collection systems results in more in-depth understanding of system operations and the status of prehospital medical care provided to the community.
authors.affiliation: Section of Emergency Medicine, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson 85724.
authors.forename: T D
authors.initials: TD
authors.lastname: Valenzuela
authors.forename: K T
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Keeley
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Criss
authors.forename: D W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Spaite
authors.forename: H W
authors.initials: HW
authors.lastname: Meislin
mesh_terms: D003625:Data Collection; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D005390:Fires; D008331:Management Information Systems; D011996:Records; D014504:Urban Health