Development and use of a prehospital-oriented ems computer bulletin board service

Objective. To describe a Level 1 trauma center's response to the need for centralized information for EMS providers by implementing a computer bulletin board service (BBS). This service permits rapid retrieval of continuing education and reference information as well as an electronic forum for EMS-related issues. Methods. A desktop computer with a modem supporting 14.4 kbps running Remote Access v2.01 is accessed by both local and toll-free telephone numbers. Users may connect using any personal computer or terminal equipped with a modem as no proprietary formats are used. The service is available 24 hours a day, free of charge, and requires users to register online. Results. The first 41 months of experience has seen 9,592 calls answered by the BBS. 1,372 users, who may be individuals or groups, have registered on the service. Usage occurs in every county in the sponsor's state. In one sample period, 49% of the activity was educationally related, followed by discussion forums (26%). The BBS is used most heavily in the afternoon and evening hours. Conclusions. A prehospital-oriented EMS BBS has seen increasing utilization in its first 41 months of existence. It has rapidly established itself as a statewide mainstay of EMS information while being inexpensive to develop and maintain. It provides focused service to a target audience and is easily accessible. The development of similar local resources elsewhere is encouraged.