County names medical director for emergency dispatch; dispatchers credited with helping revive infant

Kosciusko County commissioners approved an agreement to name Dr. Timothy Schroyer as the county's medical director for emergency medical dispatch (EMD) oversight, and county staff described a recent 911 call in which dispatch instructions helped save an infant.

EMD requires medical oversight to ensure 911 guide cards and on-scene instructions align with clinical standards. Amanda, a dispatch staff member who addressed the commission, said the current medical director is retiring and that Dr. Schroyer, a local emergency room physician with ties to area EMS, has agreed to provide oversight and guidance on the guide cards.

"EMD is our emergency medical dispatch. We have to have a medical provider oversee that and give us guidance on our guide cards to make sure we're following what is appropriate," Amanda said.

During discussion a commissioner described a recent emergency call involving an infant who was not breathing. The commissioner said the guide cards used by dispatchers helped a parent begin CPR immediately; EMS crews arrived and the child was revived. The commissioner noted the dispatchers' actions made a critical difference in the outcome.

Commissioners voted to approve the medical director agreement on a voice vote.

The medical director role will include review and approval of dispatch guide cards and clinical oversight of EMD protocols. Staff characterized the appointment as a continuity measure after the retirement of the previous medical director and said Dr. Schroyer works locally and with regional EMS providers.