KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Major activities, service statistics, ongoing projects and new initiatives are all highlighted in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division’s 2006 Annual Report, issued by Public Health - Seattle & King County. A significant focus of the report is planning for the new levy period starting in 2008.

“Nearly one in ten King County residents will directly benefit from the life-saving and supporting services of Medic One and Emergency Medical Services every year,” said King County Executive Ron Sims. “You will not find a more efficient, effective regional system in the country that delivers on its promise to the public every day.”

In 2005, the EMS system in Seattle & King County responded to 162,510 total calls, 48,787 of which were for Advanced Life Services (ALS). On average, it took less than 5 minutes from the time an emergency call arrived at dispatch to time of arrival at the scene by EMS personnel. Average response times have remained stable despite continued growth in population and call volumes over the past four years.

“The response that goes into every call for assistance reflects an extraordinary partnership,” said Dorothy Teeter, Interim Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. “This report speaks to the dedication of fire departments, paramedic providers, dispatch centers, physicians, hospitals and public health workers in meeting our community’s emergency medical needs with a world-class service.”

In addition, the Emergency Medical Services’ (EMS) 2006 Annual Report includes:

• A summary of the status of the EMS system in King County with discussion of the primary significant regional issue: planning for the upcoming EMS levy in 2008.
  
  
• A status report of the varied EMS programs and activities, including strategic initiatives to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of EMS in the region.
  
  
• A summary of regional 2005 EMS statistics, including the City of Seattle.
  
  
• A review of the 2006 EMS Financial Plan, including forecast revenues and expenditures for the duration of the levy period (2002-2007).

The full EMS 2006 Annual Report is available at www.metrokc.gov/health/ems/2006report

Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.

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