Phoenix Fire is now giving the option to connect 911 callers on a video call with an ER doctor when in-person medical attention is determined to not be needed, the department stated in a news release.

The Phoenix Fire Department’s telehealth program in partnership with the city’s 911 dispatch center and MD Ally connects low-acuity 911 callers with licensed physicians, offering appropriate care without requiring an emergency room visit or ambulance transport.

When calling 911, non-emergency cases will have an opportunity to be connected to an ER doctor within a matter of minutes, reducing the strain on emergency services and healthcare facilities. Callers can also be connected to care coordination resources at the conclusion of the call who will offer appropriate assistance for any follow-up care.

Callers will always have the ability to request and receive emergency medical services in lieu of telehealth if they prefer.

"We are excited to continue our partnership with the Phoenix Fire Department,” stated Michael Guadan, vice president of Partner Success for MD Ally, stated in a news release. “Together, we aim to enhance our telehealth process, helping low-acuity 911 callers gain better access to care for everyone in the Phoenix community. This ongoing collaboration strengthens our relationship, optimizes resource use, and collectively promotes better health outcomes."

The program is designed to increase access to care, reduce emergency transports and ER visits, improve patient outcomes through timely appropriate care and support local hospitals and healthcare systems during high-demand periods.

Editor's note: The above was republished from a city of Phoenix news release.