Online Medical Control (OMC) Support for SCDF

Online medical control is a system designed to support frontline paramedics by providing real-time, remote clinical guidance when they encounter situations that extend beyond standard protocols. In Singapore, SCDF paramedics operate under strict, written guidelines to perform medical interventions. However, unique or complex cases may require more nuanced decision-making than these protocols allow.

To address such instances, EMS-trained Emergency Physicians (EPs) from UPEC and other MOH units are scheduled to be on standby around the clock. Since its inception in 2018 with just nine doctors, the pool of EPs has expanded to a total of 13 doctors to date, ensuring continuous medical support for paramedics in the field. These physicians play a crucial role in:

• Enhance Triage and Treatment Capability through Telemedicine: Using telemedicine, EPs can assess patient conditions remotely, helping paramedics quickly determine the severity of the situation and decide on the appropriate course of action.

• Provide Physician Backing in Complex Situations: When cases fall outside the established protocols, these EPs offer expert advice, ensuring that paramedics receive the necessary clinical support to manage difficult or atypical cases safely and effectively.

• Enable Alternate Models of Care: The system also supports innovative care strategies, such as "treat and release" or redirecting non-acute patients to more appropriate care settings. This flexibility allows for more efficient use of resources and ensures patients receive the most suitable level of care.

By integrating online medical control into emergency medical services, SCDF paramedics benefit from enhanced decision-making support, improving patient outcomes and strengthening the overall prehospital care framework.