Two Western Health employees were honoured for their collaborative effort in creating a new ambulance dispatch and management system for Western Health. The Emergency Medical Services Chiefs of Canada (EMSCC) presented David Buckle and Greg Hodder an award of excellence for the innovative technology used in ADAMS (Ambulance Dispatch and Management System). Buckle, Director of Paramedicine and Medical Transport, and Hodder, Regional Manager of Application Development and Support, created ADAMS to manage routine transfers of patients between facilities throughout the region.
Two Western Health employees were honoured for their collaborative effort in creating a new ambulance dispatch and management system for Western Health. The Emergency Medical Services Chiefs of Canada (EMSCC) presented David Buckle and Greg Hodder an award of excellence for the innovative technology used in ADAMS (Ambulance Dispatch and Management System). Buckle, Director of Paramedicine and Medical Transport, and Hodder, Regional Manager of Application Development and Support, created ADAMS to manage routine transfers of patients between facilities throughout the region.
Dr. Ken Jenkins, Vice-President of Medical Services nominated Buckle and Hodder for the award. “Mr. Buckle and Mr. Hodder are true leaders and champions of change,” said Jenkins. “They have enabled frontline clinical teams the ability to arrange their interfacility transfers smarter, safer, and in a most efficient way.” The system rolled out in October 2009 and performed 4200 requests in 2010.
ADAMS coordinates multiple factors and sets guidelines for when transfers are made, for example: patient care at the receiving facility is pre-arranged; transfers are made in daytime hours and not in adverse weather; determines most appropriate care provider level during transport, either paramedic or registered nurse; return trips for ambulances are not empty; and infectious precautions or special care needs of patients are noted. As well the system ensures there is always one ambulance available for emergencies at rural facilities.
“When we first met in 2009 to discuss the development of a dispatch system, Greg told me to dream big,” says Buckle. “I had these ideas of how to make things more efficient and safe when providing transport by ambulance. Greg developed a complete program that has greatly enhanced our capability to allocate our resources, manage our ambulances and provide effective care delivery. We are still learning about the significant improvements ADAMS has made for patients and staff.”
EMSCC recognized that ADAMS is a creative use of technology within Emergency Medical Services. The award was received at the national conference held in St. John’s in June. EMSCC is a federally incorporated national association of chiefs and directors of Emergency Management Services programs in Canada.
-30-
For further information:
Heidi Staeben-Simmons
Director of Communications
Western Health
637-5252
heidistaebensimmons@westernhealth.nl.ca