Advanced Medical Priority Dispatch

In December 1997 MAS introduced a new dispatch system based on medical priority to provide consistency in call-taking and dispatch of resources. A computerised version was introduced in April 1998.

The system, based on proven medically scripted questions and pre-arrival advice, is subject to consistent quality review and improvement with three per cent of calls audited for compliance. A MAS clinical audit comparing caller information, ambulance assessment and hospital diagnosis found a high level of accuracy in call-taking and ambulance paramedic assessment.