EMS: Heavily Utilized
and Highly Valued

Results from a recent telephone survey show that EMS is called upon for help by a large percentage of the U.S. population. More than two-fifths of survey respondents say they have personally called 9-1-1 or another emergency number for help. Two-thirds say they called for assistance a year or more ago, while one-third of respondents say they've picked up the phone to call for help within a year.

The 2007 Motor Vehicle Occupant Safety Survey and EMS
Conducted for the National Highway Administration (NHTSA), the 2007 Motor Vehicle Occupant Safety Survey (MVOSS) examines occupant protection issues. Volume 4 of this survey focuses on data concerning crash injury experience - as well as public attitudes and knowledge about EMS issues. Schulman, Ronca & Bucuvalas, Inc., a national research organization, administered the telephone survey from January 9, 2007 to April 30, 2007. To view the EMS-focused Volume 4 research results in their entirety, click on the 2007 MVOSS Vol. 4: Crash Injury and EMS Report.

To view a Traffic Safety Fact Sheet summarizing the survey, click on Research Note - Use of and Support for Emergency Medical Services Systems.

The MVOSS comprises two questionnaires, with each questionnaire being administered to a randomly selected sampling of approximately 6000 people, age 16 or older, living in the 50 States and the District of Columbia. See the 2007 MVOSS Vol. 1: Methodology Report for details on methodology, sample disposition, and computation of weights.

EMS - 'At Least as Important as Police and Fire'
Most people don't think about public safety entities like police, fire, and EMS until they need them. While EMS is not only widely used by people in communities nationwide, it is also highly valued. Specifically, 94% of survey respondents rated EMS “at least as important” as police and fire service.

Improving EMS - Will the Public Pay More?
Survey participants were told how communities pay for EMS through fees and taxes. They were then asked if they would be willing to pay more to improve EMS. The good news is the majority expressed a willingness to do so, with most participants indicating a willingness to pay $5-$10 more per year.

The recent MVOSS survey results demonstrate that the public has a very positive view of EMS and EMS providers and is willing to pay more to enhance 9-1-1 call capabilities, and improve the overall EMS system.