Dispatcher

Job Description

Job Description

Dispatcher:

Position Overview: The primary objective of EMS is to provide safe and compassionate ambulance and medical transportation, while preserving patients' dignity and ensuring community safety. The communicator works closely with the Communications Supervisor, Field Supervisors, Deputy Director and Director.

EMS Communicators have a vital role on the front line of ambulance service as one of the first links in the emergency response chain. The Communicator receives and prioritizes emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from the public and/or other facilities. Processes the information using a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system and works under pressure.

Essential Job Functions:

• Attend instruction sessions for orientation, EMS operations, compliance, maintain EMD certification and other required programs.
• Be able to type 40 wpm
• Maintain professional appearance and decorum; perform general maintenance and cleaning work in the upkeep of work stations and communications center; be a self-starter requiring little oversight and be adaptable to change and able to function in a team-based management structure.
• Utilize appropriate phone and radio etiquette
• Think and act quickly under pressure
• Complete the call intake on all immediate and non-immediate transport requests and determine appropriate level/mode of response
• Maintain appropriate coverage status in all areas per WSSEMS guidelines
• Communicate effectively, gather information, and communicate efficiently using the English language.
• Work rotating shiftwork during evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Be comfortable with healthy conflict and support/manage differences of opinions
• Keep emotions in perspective with the workplace
• Be able to direct units to appropriate locations utilizing GPS and Mapping
• Be proficient with a CAD system and status management
• Relay information to management at appropriate times
• Enter, update and retrieve information from the CAD system in timely manner
• Maintain security of highly sensitive materials as well as follow all HIPAA guidelines
• Operate a multi-frequency radio and computer aided dispatch system
• Maintain a positive customer service attitude at all times with public, agency members, co­-workers, and supervisor
• General Knowledge of EMS operations, operation of ambulances and proper CAD system and radio equipment.
• Ability to learn through training, using a wide variety of EMS methods
• Ability to readily acquire knowledge of the road/street systems and general physical layout of assigned communities.
• Ability to sit at work station and utilize various date gathering devices, including computer, radio console, multiline telephone system, fax and scanning.
• Possess general knowledge

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age
• High School diploma or its equivalent
• WSSEMS is a drug-free company and employees must pass initial and random screenings.
• The following background checks will be conducted prior to offering employment:
  • Criminal History Check
  • Driving
  • History
  • Child/Elder Abuse
  • Reference
• The WV Office of EMS will deny certification or individuals convicted of certain crimes
• Must maintain valid telephone number
• Must maintain valid Health Care Provider level CPR certification

Working Environment/Conditions:

EMS operations occur 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in all weather conditions. Ambulances and EMS personnel must be prepared to respond at a moment's notice and maintain viable field operations until the situation is resolved, or the crew is appropriately relived or replaced.

EMS personnel operate in uncontrolled arena of the public. As an EMS crewmember, one must be mentally, physically, and emotionally prepared to conform a wide variety of patient types, behaviors, and situations. Safety, professionalism, and compassion are three critical personal traits necessary to be successful in the EMS operations.