FirstNet and EMS

"The EMS community fought for FirstNet," said FirstNet Authority Board Member Kevin McGinnis, who serves as Communications Technology Advisor for 5 national EMS associations. With more than 40 years as a paramedic or paramedic chief in 3 states, including 10 years as the EMS director for the State of Maine, McGinnis understands the value of FirstNet. "With FirstNet, EMS personnel now have a dedicated, reliable and secure connection to quickly share lifesaving information and help improve patient outcomes."

Broadband Reliabilty Built-In

As an EMS professional, rapid access to information is a lifesaver. From mapping applications to patient health databases to information exchange with emergency rooms, you can use data to respond more effectively, but you need a network that works when and where you respond.

Interoperable connectivity

The FirstNet network will bring you priority access and improved coverage so you can provide the best pre-hospital care possible. The FirstNet network will help you:

  • Exchange real-time audio/video feeds with hospitals and physicians while on the scene and during transport
  • Send sensitive patient data securely
  • Use patient tracking and bed management software for real-time monitoring
  • Access new diagnostic tools, such as ultrasound and CT in the ambulance to enhance decision-making and treatment capability

    • Through a robust consultation effort with states, territories, tribes, public safety associations, first responders, and its Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC), FirstNet has turned to law enforcement as a guiding force in network planning to help ensure the network meets your needs

    Complementing Radio Waves

    The launch of the network will provide mission critical, high-speed data services and non-mission-critical voice to augment the capabilities of today's Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems.

    Bring Your Own Device

    Many paramedics depend on their personal mobile devices on the job. FirstNet plans to develop and implement policies and plans for individuals who want to transition to the FirstNet network.