As Washington County takes a step forward in enhancing its emergency medical services, the newly launched Nurse Navigation program is setting out to refine how 9-1-1 services are utilized. The initiative, which is a collaborative effort among Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency (WCCCA), local EMS providers, local fire departments, and Global Medical Response (GMR), aims to connect callers with non-life-threatening conditions to nurses who can steer them toward appropriate care. This method will ensure that emergency responders are reserved for more critical situations while everyone receives the support they need in a timely fashion.
According to an announcement by Washington County EMS, over 45,000 calls in 2024 did not warrant immediate life-saving intervention. Fire Chief David Downey of Hillsboro Fire and Rescue highlighted the importance of this program, stating, "The Nurse Navigation program gives us the tools to get everyone the care they need, devoting specific resources to effectively address different kinds of situations instead of a 'one size fits all' approach," in a statement obtained by Washington County. The dual goal is to address every emergency call effectively and to manage EMS resources more sustainably.
Nurse Navigators will work hand-in-hand with 9-1-1 dispatchers who are trained to identify calls that demand urgent attention. Those which are deemed non-urgent will be transferred to a nurse equipped to provide guidance based on established medical protocols. These nurses could direct individuals to urgent care, schedule appointments at Federally Qualified Health Centers, or set up virtual consultations with physicians, and even arrange transportation, if necessary.
With benefits that include first responders being more available for true emergencies, Brian Henricksen, the project integration director at GMR, emphasized the program's patient-focused efficiency. "Not every 9-1-1 call requires an immediate response. This program helps ensure patients with life-threatening emergencies receive immediate attention, while those with non-life-threatening needs are directed to appropriate, cost-effective care," he told Washington County. This innovative approach is expected to significantly cut healthcare costs and to enhance the patient experience by providing an immediate professional assessment, thus avoiding potential overcrowding in emergency rooms.
Washington County joins over 30 communities across 14 states in the implementation of similar Nurse Navigation services. The impact has been significant, with an estimated savings of close to $21 million in avoided unnecessary responses and emergency department visits in 2024 alone. Moreover, this new resource is available around the clock, ensuring that community members have access to a nurse navigator at any hour.
Chair Kathryn Harrington of the Washington County Board also expressed enthusiasm for the program, recognizing the benefits of strong community partnerships. "The Nurse Navigation program is another example of how our strong, innovative partnerships continue to benefit Washington County residents," Harrington said, praising the program for its role in cost-effective and equitable healthcare provision. Further details about the Nurse Navigation program can be found on Washington County's Nurse Navigation page.
