Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center introduces EMS alert system to streamline emergency services, reduce ambulances leaving county

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center has announced the implementation of an EMS alert system designed to optimize patient hand-off procedures and establish seamless coordination with pre-hospital care providers prior to their arrival at ER 1, emergency services at NFMMC.

A press release explained, “This initiative ensures that EMS teams are continuously available to respond to emergencies without being tied up in extended travel times to Erie County. The EMS alert system addresses the challenges faced in the past, where ambulances had to navigate extended travel times to neighboring counties, affecting response readiness within Niagara County. With the introduction of this efficient system, these delays are minimized, resulting in faster response times and enhanced emergency care for residents of Niagara County.”

It added, “The EMS alert system further reinforces the commitment to keep health care local by retaining EMS crews within Niagara County, and significantly reducing the number of ambulances leaving the county due to patient transfers.”

The EMS Alert system is the result of a collaborative effort between NFMMC and various key stakeholders, including the Niagara County fire coordinator's office, emergency management officials, and the Niagara County EMS Council.

The press release said, “Its primary objective is to expedite ambulance-to-ER transfers and reduce patient transfer times, ultimately assisting EMS partners in returning to service more promptly.”

NFMMC CEO and President Joseph Ruffolo said, "Memorial believes in unity with our EMS partners. The EMS alert system allows for real-time inquiry and information access to provide accurate patient transfer wait times to empower EMS personnel to make informed decisions and allocate resources efficiently.”

The hospital added, “NFMMC takes immense pride in its strong partnership with local EMS teams. As the only full-service hospital remaining in Niagara County, the medical center offers a comprehensive range of essential services, including the region's only cardiac catheterization lab, accredited primary stroke center, comprehensive orthopedic center, and labor and delivery services. These critical services are available to the community and EMS providers within Niagara County, eliminating the need to venture unnecessarily into Erie County.

“To foster better communication and outreach, NFMMC has sent a copy of the attached letter and reference cards to every Niagara County fire company, including municipal and volunteer units, irrespective of whether they have an EMS transport unit. Additionally, numerous commercial EMS providers have also received these materials.

“NFMMC remains committed to enhancing emergency response capabilities and providing top-notch health care services for the Greater Niagara Region. The EMS alert system is a significant step towards a safer and healthier community, solidifying the hospital's position as a trusted partner in times of need.”