title: Operational issues in EMS.
abstract: Improving outcomes for patients presenting to the EMS system relies on strong links at every level of the EMS system. Targeted deployment strategies that serve to limit the number of paramedics in each system foster a cadre of experienced paramedics that make a difference for seriously ill patients who present in the out-of-hospital setting. Dedicated physician directors who act as mentors at every level of the EMS system are essential elements of the successful EMS system.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, Ohio State University, Center for EMS, 016 Prior HSL, 376 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210-1252, USA. key.30@osu.edu
authors.forename: Craig B
authors.initials: CB
authors.lastname: Key
mesh_terms: D004631:Emergency Medical Service Communication Systems; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000266:history / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004634:Emergency Medical Technicians / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration; D005060:Europe; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008611:Mentors; D019035:Rural Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D014481:United States