I needed a City EMS ambulance to go to the hospital Can I get a copy of the medical records from that incident?

Yes, to request your records, follow the instructions on the form here.

What are my privacy rights as a patient?

Information on Cleveland EMS patient privacy rights can be found here. Detailed information on the federal law regarding patient privacy can be found here.

How often should someone renew their CPR certification in order to keep current?

American Heart Association certifications can be renewed every two years. For more information, contact EMS Community Education and Training at 216.664.2020 Ext 253 or send an email.

I would like to have Cleveland EMS present at our career day, who should I contact about this?

You can fill out and follow the instructions on the Career Day/Special Event form, For more information on EMS Community Education, click here.

How many Emergency Medical Personnel are in an ambulance?

City ambulances are staff with at least 2 EMS personnel running advanced life support. Ambulances are available 24 hours a day.

Can I schedule a non-emergency ambulance pick up with EMS?

No, EMS handles critical emergencies only. There are many private ambulance services that provide transportation to appointments and hospital to hospital transfers.

Does Cleveland EMS provide community health screenings?

Yes, health screenings are available for public and private events. For more information, click here.

How do I send a compliment/complaint to the city regarding someone who works for EMS?

The Division's Office of Professional Standards accepts Personnel Comment Forms. For more information, click here.

If I get in an accident and can't call my family, how will they be notified?

In this state you can register emergency contact information through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles as long as you have a valid driver's license or state ID card. Registration can be done online or in person at your local BMV office. Read the state's Media Release for more information.

If you are not registered with the BMV, emergency personnel will try to obtain contact information through your place of employment or school, if possible.

Does Cleveland EMS hold public CPR and AED training classes?

The Community Education and Training Section provides training as well as other public services. For more information click here.

Do you need to live in Cleveland to work for Cleveland EMS?

No, it is no longer required that you live in the City of Cleveland to be a city employee.

How do I become an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD)?

Cleveland's Division of Emergency Medical Services provides certification training for newly-hired EMD's. For more information on the hiring and training process, click here or call 216.664.2555. General information can be found here.

Who can I contact about my bill for EMS services?

The Division of Assessments and Licenses handles billing for EMS services, and can be contacted at 216.664.2260 or via mail at 601 Lakeside, Room 122, Cleveland, OH 44114. This division's web page is here.

What type of training and education is required to work for Cleveland EMS?

To work in an ambulance, a current National Registry or State of Ohio Emergency Medical Technician - Basic Certification is required. For more information, contact the EMS Recruitment Section at (216) 664-2020 Ext 237 or send an email.

How can I request ambulance coverage for an event being held in Cleveland?

Click here for information on EMS Special Events Coverage.

When I call 911 for an ambulance, what information should I be prepared to give?

Remain calm when you call, and tell us what the emergency is and where the ambulance is needed. Be prepared to answer the call-takers questions about the situation or person(s) involved. Answering questions does not delay the ambulance and will allow the call-taker to tell you how you can help while the ambulance is on its way.

How many ambulances are on duty in the City of Cleveland?

On average there are 16 ambulances operating 24 hours a day.

If I call for an ambulance, can I request to be taken to a specific hospital?

The treating paramedic decides which hospital you will be taken to based on your condition, hospital restrictions, location of medical records, and current patient care protocols.

When should I call 911 for an ambulance?

Call 911 for an ambulance when:

• there is any life-threatening illness or injury
• when you are not sure if an ambulance should be called or not
• for any of the circumstances noted here

Are there different EMT certifications?

Yes, there are currently three levels of training for Emergency Medical Technicians:

• EMT-Basic: entry level for basic life support
• EMT-Intermediate: advanced skills including administering drugs and IV fluids
• EMT-Paramedic: the most highly trained, able to perform advanced life saving procedures

How do I become an Emergency Medical Technician or EMT?

For information call 216.664.2020 Ext 237 or send an email. Also, local community colleges and some hospitals conduct accredited training programs.