Fire Dept Staffing Study - June 2012 MRI

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Inefficient Patient Care Reporting System The fire department's EMS patient care reporting (PCR) is an electronic, stand -alone (not web - based) system that is connected to a PC hard drive at each station. The department has a policy for patient encounter documentation which members utilize; newly hired personnel receive training on this policy. The electronic documentation software is AmbuPro EMS and has been in use by the department for approximately six years. This software is compliant with the National EMS Information System (NEMSIS) 3.2.1, but the current system not web - based, is not backed up, and is not connected to the municipal computer network. PCRs are printed in the ambulance and a hard copy is left with the hospital emergency department. The existing EMS PCR system should be completely overhauled and replaced with a capability that includes the following components: • Web -based capability that is supported on the municipal IT network, with continuous off -site back -up redundancy • Analysis and evaluation capabilities for patient care performance improvement, staffing configurations, EMS response data, equipment purchasing, and supply re- stocking • Ability to electronically transmit billing data • Future ability to transmit PCRs to the emergency department electronically (rather than paper) • Future ability to transition from laptops to hand -held data entry devices IN CONCLUSION The full body of this report contains a large number of recommendations. The report should be studied in its entirety to gain a complete picture of MRI's recommendations. Town and department leaders should develop their own priorities; modify our recommendations based on the ever - changing needs of the town and the fire department; and coordinate solutions based on time, personnel, and fiscal realities. In spite of the issues identified in this report, the citizens of Lexington should feel confident that the Lexington Fire Department is a professional public safety organization that is providing a high quality level of service to the community. We continue to be impressed with the dedication and commitment of its members. We also commend the town manager, his staff, and the board of selectmen for their willingness to address these very complex issues in an open and positive manner. In order to address the recommendations that have been identified in this report, the town and the department should: Town of Lexington, MA: Fire Department Staffing Study Page 8 Prepared by Municipal Resources, Inc. June 2012 HIII Municipal Resources