DeKalb County Invests in Stronger EMS System, Expands Ambulance Services

DeKalb County has taken meaningful action to improve emergency medical services, resulting in faster response times and increased ambulance availability for residents. 

In February 2024, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved a $3.8 million investment to expand DeKalb County Fire Rescue’s (DCFR) ambulance program, adding new units, personnel, and operational support. In addition, the County extended its contract with American Medical Response (AMR), effective January 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. 

The updated agreement includes a $4.89 million subsidy to increase the number of AMR ambulances in service. As a result of these efforts, the system has seen measurable improvements, including a 2-minute and 48-second reduction in response times for critical calls, 18% more AMR ambulance unit hours on the road, and 58% more DCFR ambulance unit hours on the road since 2024.

DCFR has partnered with local hospitals to reduce emergency room wall times—also known as ambulance patient offload times (APOT). Shorter wall times mean ambulances return to service more quickly, helping maintain coverage during high call volumes. 

Additionally, DCFR’s HEALS (Healthcare Education and Linked Services) team works directly with residents to reduce preventable 911 use by connecting them with long-term healthcare resources. DeKalb’s Nurse Navigator program, available through the E911 system, helps callers determine the most appropriate level of care, ensuring ambulances are reserved for true emergencies. 

"We are excited about this high-performing system improvement through initiatives, resource investments, and constant leadership support”, said DeKalb County Fire Rescue Chief,  Darnell Fullum. “Together, these strategic efforts are building a more responsive, efficient, and patient-centered EMS system for DeKalb County.”