Dispatcher

SUMMARY: The Dispatcher is primarily responsible for receiving and recording requests from MAAS Call Takers for ambulance assistance/transport. Dispatchers, during busy times will be required to receive and record phone request for services from various sources. Dispatchers shall establish effective communications with the person requesting assistance, elicit information necessary for dispatching an effective EMS response and shall select the most appropriate EMS resource to respond to each call. The Dispatcher will offer pre-arrival instructions as indicated.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Handles radio communications in a prompt, accurate, courteous and professional manner.
• Understands and adequately implements the concepts of Emergency Medical Dispatch as published in Principles of Emergency Medical Dispatch as a minimum standard of care.
• Selects and dispatches appropriate ALS, BLS or NET vehicle or vehicles to emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance and; requests appropriate response from First Responder, Fire Rescue and any other ancillary support agencies.
• Absolute knowledge of the EMS services available in the area, their capabilities, limitation, locations and accessibility.
• Allocates EMS resources properly as the need arises by application of appropriate decision making rules and approved protocols.
• Responsible and accountable for completeness and accuracy of Dispatcher paperwork related to his/her shift prior to completion of shift.
• Responsible for accurate and complete data entry for the shift. Responsible for generating applicable reports and checking for accuracy.
• Assists field personnel in locating scene of incidents and selecting the safest, fastest route to such scene using all available Dispatcher locator aids.
• Keeps track of locations, status and condition of each unit at all times; relays instructions from supervisors, messages and emergency information.
• Maintains a current working knowledge of all company policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and memorandums.
• Coordinates EMS resources in any multi-agency response
• Responsible and accountable for updating management and operations personnel on any changes effecting the company.
• Assists in development and implementation of Dispatcher locator aids.
• Provides input for the development and implementation of the Ambulance Placement Strategy.
• Notifies the appropriate members in the chain of command for any extraordinary situations.
• Follows established parameters/formats in receiving requests for service.
• Responsible for knowledge and use of Dispatcher equipment, including but not limited to the radio console, computer, printers, 911 equipment, recording devices, faxes and telephones.
• Other duties as assigned by the Communications Supervisor.

MINIMAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Maintain current Georgia Drivers license
• Must successfully complete an accredited EMD training program within 24 months of assuming position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Skilled in reading and writing English
• Ability to communicate clearly on the radio and telephone
• Ability to function effectively in stressful situations
• Working knowledge of Operations policies and procedures
• Thorough knowledge of EMS and other public safety resources available in the area.
• General knowledge of Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations that apply to EMS and Public Safety/Special Emergency Services.
• Ability to plan and organize the activities of a unit
• Ability to record, transmit, and report information accurately
• Ability to establish priorities
• Possess good typing skills
• Ability to understand basic computer applications
• Following training, ability to adequately implement concepts of EMD.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The employee is regularly required to use hands, fingers, and reach with hands and arms; must be able to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk. The employee is required to sit for extended periods; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee may often lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Open cubical type office environment, frequent interruptions, work pressure and irregularities in work schedule are expected. Employee is continuously faced with a number of projects considered to be high priority. Employee is subject to continually changing deadlines. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be required to travel and attend both regular and unscheduled meetings, some of which take place outside of regular working hours.