Agenda Item Name:
Title
Presentation: Tele911 Program
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Presenter:
Harold Theus, Chief 352-384-3101
Description:
The Tele911 program provides patient access to physicians when transportation to an area hospital via rescue unit is not necessary.
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Hear Presentation and approve and sign the agreement between Alachua County and Tele911
End
Prior Board Motions:
N/A
Fiscal Consideration:
Fiscal Consideration
The agreement between Alachua County and Tele911 is non-financial
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Strategic Guide:
Strategic Guide
Social and Economic Opportunity
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Background:
The service delivery demand continues to increase within Alachua County. Over the past two years (2021 & 2022), the County's Emergency Medical Service (EMS) has experienced a 10% and 8% increase respectively. The department has faced challenges in placing additional rescue units in service to meet these needs.
Alachua County Fire Rescue and Gainesville Fire Rescue are entering into agreements with Tele911 independently so that Engine Companies can provide this service, keeping the Rescue Units available for higher acuity calls.
Tele911, Inc. is comprised of Licensed Emergency Board Physicians with the Florida Emergency Medical Group Practice, that has developed specialized software to integrate emergency medicine telehealth and patient navigation into 911/EMS systems. The program is accessed by fire rescue crews after it is determined patient transport to a hospital may not be necessary. As an alternative to transport, the patient can elect to be seen "virtually" by a physician through the Tele911 program. The Physician will interview the patient, write the necessary prescriptions, and provide advice on medical treatment plans. Additionally, a Tele911 member will follow up with the patient within 24-hours.
Tele911 works as a partner with Fire Rescue Departments by way of an agreement. The agreement covers access to patient care, HIPAA complianc...
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