Launch Of The Medical Priority Dispatch System In The United Counties of Prescott and Russell

Starting on April 10, 2024, the Emergency Services of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (the “UCPR”) will use the Medical Priority Dispatch System (the “MPDS”). With this system, Prescott and Russell residents calling 9-1-1 can expect greater security and efficiency.

Developed in the 1970s, it is a tried-and-tested technology that continues to be the subject of ongoing testing, development, and quality assurance measures. This tool is designed to help dispatchers of the Ottawa Central Ambulance Communications Centre better understand the emergency level of a patient and triage them accordingly. Consequently, when a dispatcher receives a 9-1-1 call, the system matches available paramedic resources to a person’s medical condition, ensuring that patients in life-threatening situations receive immediate care.

“The primary objective of the Emergency Services of the UCPR is to provide emergency medical response to all residents. Thanks to this new system, our team of paramedics will be able to better serve the region and, most importantly, travel more quickly to emergencies to provide the right care at the right time,” said Pierre Leroux, Warden of the UCPR.

“Dispatchers and paramedics work closely together to ensure efficient call management. When a medical situation is urgent, a person must call 9-1-1 immediately. Otherwise, we ask residents to consider what other resources are available near them, and whether their situation really requires paramedic assistance. Let us work together for the well-being of our community,” declared Marc-André Périard, Director of the Emergency Services of the UCPR.

The Medical Priority Dispatch System will be deployed at the same time in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell, the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry, and the City of Ottawa. The use of this new system is one of the strategies of A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care of the Government of Ontario, a vision for patient-centred care.

To learn more, residents are invited to visit the website of the UCPR.