iPCR - NEMSIS Gold Compliant ePCR Software

A Battalion Chief And 20-Year EMS Veteran Talks ePCR

When Battalion Chief Dave Brady first started writing patient care reports, he didn’t have the option of using iPCR. His process involved handwriting every tag, including any necessary copies. Transitioning to ePCR software solved some problems but resulted in others, due to the bulky laptop required for the program. When the El Dorado Hills, California Fire Department implemented iPCR, everything changed for the better.

Why Battalion Chief Dave Brady Recommends iPCR:

Easy to use on the go and in the field
More affordable than previous hardware (Toughbooks)
Intuitive, familiar interface
iPads are smart, fast, and efficient
Less cost and time spent on tech support
Seamless CQI features
Adheres to NEMSIS standards

A MOMENT WITH BATTALION CHIEF DAVE BRADY

I’m Dave Brady, a Battalion Chief for the El Dorado Hills, California Fire Department and 20-year veteran of the EMS industry. When the people at iPCR asked if I would talk about my experiences, I was more than happy to since iPCR is the product my team and I use and recommend. When I first started documenting my patient care, I was using paper tags. Handwriting every PCR can be tedious and leads to poor patient care. Not only is legibility a problem, but having to do forms in duplicate or triplicate is a hassle, and there is no easy way to transfer data directly to another agency. In addition, I have used ePCR charting programs on Toughbooks. Bouncing down the road with a heavy, bulky laptop encased in an even thicker shell — with keys that are, at times, unresponsive — does not lead to an accurate note.

In my personal life, I have used an iPad for the last couple of years. It is a smarter, faster, and more efficient device. Merging the PCR onto an iPad is a natural progression. Paper notes and less-advanced ePCR systems cost you time and money. We have outfitted our entire department with iPads and protective cases for a fraction of the cost of our previous hardware. The iPads are far more durable as there are no hinges or keys to break. In the year and a half since we started using iPCR, we have not had one iPad break or become damaged. The cost and time spent on tech support is far less.

The patients’ reactions to iPCR are incredible. From the first time they see you with their entire history in your hands, to signing directly on screen — it’s like something out of science fiction. Except this is “science fact,” and the iPCR is elevating patient care to new levels. Cutting-edge technology cannot just look cool, it also has to provide tangible benefits and make life simpler. You will have more accurate tags thanks to the NEMSIS Standards, which account for accessibility of data collection. With better servicing of patients and more rapid documentation, the EMS personnel are able to respond that much quicker to their next call.

From an administrative standpoint, I can ensure the CQI standards are maintained with care and ease. I load a completed tag, review the information, and electronically send it back to the firefighter/paramedic to correct and review any discrepancies. I have seen training time cut in half for employees, and most are able to pick up the iPad much quicker than any computer. iPCR was designed by actual EMTs and it shows – iPCR is efficient, in depth, and simple. iPCR has made my life easier as a supervisor, as a paramedic, and as a colleague. It is the only PCR solution I recommend to fellow firefighters and paramedics.

Sincerely,
Battalion Chief Dave Brady