EMS Control Education and Training Standard

In 2009, PHECC developed a draft EMS Control Education and Training Standard. This Standard has 2 levels, Call Taker and Dispatcher. The Call Taker is a trained individual whose primary responsibility is to take emergency calls while the Dispatcher has the primary role in the dispatch and oversight of the emergency response.


Definitions

An EMS Controller is trained and employed in emergency medical services control centres. This role involves two broad aspects of work, call taking where emergency medical 999/112 calls are received and prioritised; and where the most appropriate ambulance is dispatched to the emergency in accordance with standard guidelines and ambulance resources are optimised in their areas of operations.

Course Duration

The proposed duration of the Call Taker course is 120 hours/4 weeks didactic and 3 weeks supervised work placements of which 2 days should be off-site in alternative learning environments. The proposed duration of the Dispatcher course is 60 hours/2 weeks didactic and 3 weeks supervised work placements of which 2-4 days should be off-site in alternative learning environments.

Course Outcomes

A graduate at the end of a recognised course for EMS Control – Call Taker/Dispatcher will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate effective communication skills in their role as an EMS Controller
  2. Demonstrate effective use of appropriate technology in their role as an EMS Controller
  3. Adopt a professional approach to their practice
  4. Demonstrate a commitment to professional development and continuous renewal. 


Assessments and Qualification/ Award

Assessments will be carried out by PHECC or on behalf of PHECC by the Recognised Institution. The format of the assessment is yet to be determined, but may include MCQ, continuous assessment and panel interview. The qualification/ award will be a joint Institution/ PHECC national award in EMS Control at either Call Taker or Dispatcher level.
  

Council rules pertinent for existing Control staff

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) warrants some explanation as it will play a pivotal role in transitioning individuals from the current training status to the proposed implementation of the EMS Control Standards. During an application, every Recognised Institution (RI) must submit a RPL policy to PHECC for approval andit should include all Recognised Courses as relevant. By availing of the opportunities of RPL, a RI, e.g. NASC or DFB/RCSI may, on individual application, review learning that has taken place, but not necessarily been assessed or measured, prior to entering a course or for consideration for award.



Such prior learning may have been acquired through formal or informal routes. The application procedure and the decision for existing control staff following RPL will occur between the individual and the RI. PHECC will not accept RPL applications from individuals; rather will consider the policies and approve procedures of the RIs. In acknowledgment of the variation in training provided for control staff in Ireland to date, 3 possible outcome routes following RPL will be considered by Council for existing control personnel:

  1. No additional training (upskilling) required and individuals are eligible for award of the joint PHECC/RI certificate at the appropriate level (Call taker or Dispatcher).
  2. Additional training (upskilling) is required prior to the award of the joint PHECC/RI certificate at the appropriate level (Call taker or Dispatcher).
  3. Additional training (upskilling) plus assessment is required prior to the award of the joint PHECC/RI certificate at the appropriate level (Call taker or Dispatcher).
Council is now conducting a public consultation process in relation to this draft standard. Just email info@phecc.ie or phone us on 045-882042 to request a copy of the consultation documentation. Alternatively you can download from www.phecc.ie