A major upgrade is coming to 911 medical calls in Sault Ste. Marie and across the Algoma District.
Starting April 15, the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) will replace the current dispatch model. The new system uses structured medical questioning and a five-level priority scale to better assess emergencies and ensure the most urgent patients receive the fastest response.
For residents, dialing 911 won’t change but callers may notice dispatchers asking more detailed questions. These help quickly determine how serious the situation is and ensure the right level of care is sent.
Officials say the current system can sometimes over-prioritize calls, while MPDS improves accuracy, consistency, and helps paramedics focus on life-threatening emergencies like cardiac arrest, stroke, and major trauma.
Lower-priority calls may experience delays during high call volumes, but dispatchers will remain on the line to provide instructions and monitor patients until help arrives.
The system is already used in thousands of dispatch centres worldwide and is being rolled out across Ontario as part of a province-directed effort to modernize emergency response and improve patient care.
