PRO utilizes 10 ambulances dynamically staffed and positioned throughout the community according to current demand and historical trending. All PRO EMTs and Paramedics are certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts after completing a competency based training program. We currently staff two types of ambulances; basic life support (2 EMTs) and advanced life support (1 EMT and 1 Paramedic or 2 Paramedics). The level of acuity for each medical incident is determined by an Emergency Medical Dispatcher and the appropriate response is initiated. PRO dispatchers are sure to send the closest, most appropriate resource based on our CAD, GPS and AVL systems.

Our EMTs and Paramedics enjoy flexible scheduling and a variety of shift lengths with varying start times. As a Paramedic you may wind up on a double paramedic resource or as the solo ALS provider on a paramedic/basic ALS ambulance. EMTs work alongside paramedics on ALS ambulances, as well as with another EMT on BLS ambulances. All PRO units respond to 9-1-1 emergency calls as well as requests for non-emergency transports.

Field Operations
Field personnel respond to incidents in an ambulance fleet with an average age of 3 years. We continue to upgrade our fleet with identical Ford E450 Superduty ambulances manufactured by AEV. Each unit has a Verizon Wireless Broadband Connection allowing internet access and electronic patient care reports to be uploaded. Our staff utilizes well maintained equipment such as LifePak 12s with capnography and NIBP, IVAC three channel IV Pumps, Panasonic Toughbooks with Zoll’sTabletPCR. PRO field providers are each issued their own Motorola portable radios. We operate under progressive statewide protocols with local online medical direction. Cambridge has two community hospitals and major trauma is taken to one of five trauma centers in Boston.

Fleet Management
Ambulances are often used in a demanding manner. There are generally extensive periods of idling, cold starts, stop-and-go driving, multiple short trips and the normal abuse caused by potholes and road construction. In an effort to limit wear-and-tear and reduce critical vehicle failures, each PRO ambulance receives scheduled maintenance every three thousand miles in accordance with Ford’s Severe Duty Schedule.

Fleet Management is about process. PRO retains control of this process by completing all preventive maintenance and most repair work in house. Major body damage, warranty work and towing are the only elements outsourced. It’s this level of monitoring that allows us to become aware of minor problems or trends before they erupt into larger ones, ultimately helping us maximize efficiency and minimize maintenance costs.

Support Services
Support Services is tasked with several vital duties. The Support Services function is responsible for materials management, vehicle cleanliness, and checklist compliance. Many of the logistics and preparation to deliver emergency medical services in a safe and efficient manner hinge on the work of Support Services.

Support Services demos new equipment and products, acquires all of the replacement medications administered by field crews, handles the purchasing of all disposable medical supplies, recovers reusable medical equipment, and is responsible for restocking ambulances. Support Services also oversees maintenance programs for all biomedical equipment including cardiac monitors, AEDs, IV pumps and stretchers, while serving as an integral part of the Fleet Maintenance process. The Support Services function endeavors to keep each vehicle available and in service with minimal downtime.