The City of Arlington has launched a new program designed to connect certain 911 callers with registered nurses to reduce unnecessary ambulance responses.
According to NBC 5, the program began operating last week and allows 911 dispatchers to transfer callers with non-life-threatening medical concerns to trained nurses for assessment and guidance. During the program’s first week, approximately 80 calls were transferred. About 20% resolved without dispatching an ambulance.
Dispatchers retain authority to send emergency units whenever needed.