San Francisco EMS reports summer call volume drop and new regulations impact service delays

San Francisco's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) reported a notable decrease in call volume for June, a trend typically observed during the summer months. Assistant Deputy Chief Tony Malloy highlighted that the city averaged 14 high-acuity emergency transports per day, indicating a steady demand for critical care despite the overall reduction in calls. The report also noted a significant drop in overdose responses, attributed to improved communication with the Department of Emergency Communications.

In response to ongoing challenges with hospital wait times, new regulations from the state and county aimed at reducing ambulance patient offload delays (APOD) were enacted on July 1. These regulations require hospitals to address instances where patient wait times exceed 30 minutes, a situation that occurred 65 times in June. The EMS team is committed to monitoring these changes closely to ensure timely care for patients.

The community paramedicine division, led by Section Chief Michael Mason, reported a slight increase in service calls, with the Street Crisis Response Team responding to 1,426 incidents. The division has successfully decreased the number of high-utilizing patients by 60%, showcasing effective engagement strategies. The Geary Stabilization Unit, a new resource for mental health crises, is transitioning to a 24/7 operation, providing crucial support for individuals in need.

The meeting also recognized the achievements of EMS personnel, including EMT Ismail Orozco, who received a distinguished award for his life-saving actions during a behavioral health crisis. The ongoing collaboration with Harvard Government Policy Lab aims to enhance alternative response programs, further improving service delivery in the community.

As the city continues to adapt its emergency response strategies, these developments reflect a proactive approach to public health and safety, ensuring that San Francisco residents receive the care they need in a timely manner.