County dispatch switches to computer-based medical protocol; NG911 grant timeline outlined

Richland County’s dispatch services began using a computer-based total response protocol for emergency medical dispatch on Wednesday, staff told the Public Safety Standing Committee on May 2. The system replaces paper “flip cards” with on-screen prompts designed to guide call takers through protocol-driven pre-arrival instructions such as CPR coaching.

Staff said they have seen some initial “growing pains” but also successful uses in early deployments. The committee noted the state grant that funds aspects of PSAP (public safety answering point) operations requires EMD (emergency medical dispatch) certification for agencies receiving grant dollars.

Separately, county staff outlined the NG911 (Next Generation 911) grant timeline for planning the 2026 PSAP application. Officials said they expect state guidance to be published around June and that the county will have 30–45 days to prepare and submit an application. County technical staff are preparing GIS elements and other pieces of the application; staff asked that a representative from the sheriff’s office participate in grant meetings while a key sheriff’s office staffer may be unavailable during the application window.

No formal decisions were taken at the meeting; staff described next steps of coordinating technical application pieces and scheduling follow-up grant‑planning meetings.