Since 2002 the Rolling Meadows 9-1-1 Center has provided Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) services. Rolling Meadows uses the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch (NAED) protocol system.

EMD enhances the paramedic response to medical emergencies by organizing the questions asked by the 9-1-1 call-taker through medically approved series of protocols. The 9-1-1 call-taker will ask a series of questions to determine the callers needs, personal safety, and contact information in case the call is lost. An ambulance and fire engine is immediately dispatched. The 9-1-1 call-taker continues asking a series of questions used to assist the caller render aid to the patient and to update the emergency responders. Call-takers are trained in providing instruction in the application of American Heart Association CPR for adults, children and infants, rescue breathing, choking, severe bleeding control, and delivery of a baby. The call-taker will offer to stay on the telephone until emergency responders make contact with the caller or disconnect after providing important information.

Each Telecommunicator receives 24 hours of initial training in EMD protocols. Initial training is reinforced by monthly quality assurance call reviews and 24 hours of bi-annual Continuing Dispatch Education (CDE) required for re-certification.

The 9-1-1 Center has a quality assurance and quality improvement process where supervisors reviews EMD calls for proper application of EMD protocols, application of CPR instructions, and quality customer service. A Rolling Meadows paramedic reviews a portion of calls that are reviewed by the supervisors to ensure their accuracy and  establish recommendations for quality improvement and Continuing Dispatch Education.

Rolling Meadows 9-1-1 Center processes 3,500 calls annually. About 80%, or 2,800 of these are EMD calls.

The 9-1-1 Center application of EMD has been attributed to 5 saved lives, and one baby delivery, since its inception!