Executive Summary The 2008 edition of the Delaware Emergency Medical Services Oversight Council (DEMSOC) annual report represents the policies, performance, prevention, resources and cost of the State of Delaware’s Emergency Medical Service (EMS) System. The primary goal of this report is to be a source of information for those interested in the progress of the state’s EMS system. The inaugural report in 2000 allowed DEMSOC to begin the process of establishing a baseline from which to measure the impact of future changes and growth in Delaware’s EMS system. DEMSOC presents this annual report in accordance with Title 16, Chapter 97, Section 9703 of the Delaware Code. Two EMS providers were fatally injured in the line of duty during 2008 and this report is dedicated to the loving memory of Paramedic Stephanie Calloway and EMT-B Michelle (Newton) Smith. To increase awareness of the risk that EMS providers take on a daily basis, this report will highlight EMS safety issues. Throughout these pages you will find numerous examples of how EMS personnel jeopardize their lives everyday. We all share the responsibility of making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and through funding and policy initiatives the system can be made safer for our EMS personnel who touch the lives of others. It is DEMSOC’s vision that Delaware’s EMS system represents true excellence in out-of- hospital health care. Integrated within Delaware’s EMS system is emergency dispatch, emergency response, community health interventions, and prevention. DEMSOC is proud of these courageous public servants and is committed to help them provide the best possible service to the citizens and visitors of Delaware. The ongoing challenges seen by the Delaware EMS system are consistent with those seen nationwide. These challenges include: • EMS safety • System finance and sustainability • Increases in call volume due to population aging and growth • Recruitment and retention Many agencies receive funding through state and federal sources; however current federal funding cuts may adversely impact the system. The system must take a proactive approach to these issues to maintain the quality and efficiency of the State of Delaware’s EMS services. According to the Delaware Population Consortium, there are 875,953 people living in the State of Delaware. Included in this number is a large population of elderly people and each year that number increases. Approximately 20.5% of Sussex County’s population is over the age of 65 according to the 2006 Delaware Vital Statistics Report. Sussex County’s elderly population has increased 58% over the past ten years. This increase in the elderly population has created a substantial increase in call volume. While population is increasing, the volunteer EMS system is decreasing. EMS systems nationwide are facing issues with personnel recruitment and retention. There is a national shortage of EMS providers and a need to solidify EMS as a recognized medical profession. The national trend is toward the creation of a National Scope of Practice, which would standardize the provider levels recognized in each state and enhance interoperability, mutual aid and licensure reciprocity. As you read this Annual Report, we are confident that you will also be proud of the State of Delaware’s Emergency Medical Services and the progress that has been made. DEMSOC members are encouraged by the system’s successes, optimistic about what the future may bring and look forward to enhancing the services provided to the State. To view the complete report on-line, visit: http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/ems/files/demsocreport2008.pdf A printed copy of DEMSOC report can by obtained by contacting: Delaware Office of Emergency Medical Services, DPH, DHSS Blue Hen Corporate Center, Suite 4H 655 South Bay Road Dover, Delaware 19901 (302) 744-5400