Program puts Paramedics in contact with ER physicians, saving some 911 callers money and long ER waits

McKinney, Texas (Nov. 10, 2021) – The McKinney Fire Department is partnering with Integrative Emergency Services to implement a telemedicine program that connects some patients to ER Physicians without a trip to the hospital. This program is one of the first in the country involving fire-based EMS departments.

The program allows paramedics on the scene to evaluate non-emergency patients. Paramedics are then connected to a board-certified ER physician to assist in providing the right diagnosis, treatment and referral options. 

This will keep some patients from a potentially expensive and avoidable trip to the Emergency Room. 

“The healthcare world is evolving, and technology is in the forefront, partly out of necessity due to the pandemic,” said McKinney Fire Chief Danny Kistner. “Telemedicine on 911 calls will allow our highly-trained paramedics to treat the right patient at the right time in the right location.” 

The program launches November 12, 2021.