March 1979 | Special Publication SP-79-3

Emergency Medical Services Communications System Technical Planning Guide

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Joseph A. Hull, John M. Harman, Marylyn N. Olson, and H. David Hunt

Abstract:

This document is intended to provide guidance in planning Emergency Medical Systems [sic] (EMS) communications. Processes and and procedures are presented for such planning. Recommendations for obtaining technical, consultative and other assistance in designing and implementing EMS systems are given.

In addition, this report is designed to familiarize the non-technical person with common communication terms, concepts and helpful references. Fundamental elements of land-mobile radio are introduced, and details of citizen access and emergency medical repsonses are addressed. Planning a 911 emergency system is discussed. The development of an EMS command and control center is highlighted. Frequency-assignment regulations and selected configurations for an EMS system are introduced.

Keywords: emergency preparedness; land mobile radio (LMR); frequency allocation; ambulance communications; emergency medical communications; health services; hospital communications

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.

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