Tyler, Texas (August 29, 2024) — UT Health East Texas EMS has been recognized by The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) as an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) for emergency medical dispatching.
IAED is the standard-setting organization for emergency dispatch services worldwide. Accreditation (and subsequent re-accreditation) from the IAED is the highest distinction given to emergency communication centers, certifying that the center is performing at or above the established standards for the industry. Centers who earn ACE status are the embodiment of dispatch done right, and have demonstrated strong local oversight, rigorous quality processes, and a commitment to data-driven continuous improvement.
“Being recognized as an Accredited Center of Excellence by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch is a testament to the unwavering dedication and expertise of our team,” said John Smith, CEO of UT Health East Texas EMS/AIR 1. “This prestigious accreditation reflects our commitment to providing the highest standard of emergency medical dispatch services, ensuring that our community receives the best possible care during critical moments.”
IAED will present UT Health East Texas EMS with an Accreditation plaque that commemorates their achievement. IAED Accreditation is the culmination of a lengthy, arduous process that includes the completion of the 20 Points of Accreditation, a detailed evaluation of performance by industry experts, and a final review and ruling by IAED. UT Health EMS has been ACE accredited since 2012.
“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement,” said Christof Chwojka, Accreditation Board Chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated call-takers, dispatchers and leadership team at UT Health East Texas EMS for their commitment to quality, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their community can count on these first, first responders to do an outstanding job.
Accreditation is valid for a three-year period, during which all standards must be upheld. Over 3,500 emergency communication centers worldwide use the medical, fire, police and emergency nurse triage protocols developed and maintained by the IAED. The protocol-based system — known as the Priority Dispatch System — is recognized as the standard of care and practice for emergency dispatch, and is used in 46 countries.