EMS Data Information Network (EDIN)

The Emergency Data Information Network (EDIN) is the electronic, statewide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) data system in Delaware. The EDIN system collects, at minimum, over 130 data points covering the demographic assessment and treatment phases of an EMS incident. The EDIN system has been online since January 1, 2000. Since its inception, over 750,000 records have been entered into the system. Currently, all of the Advanced Life Support agencies in Delaware are using the system on a full-time basis. Of the 59 volunteer Basic Life Support agencies, all are using the system on either a full time or partial basis.

Like any software application, EDIN needs to be continually modified and improved to meet the needs of Delaware’s evolving EMS system. There are three immediate needs for the system. First is to finish integrating the 911 centers into EDIN. The second is to enable EDIN to email a Patient care report directly to the hospital in the event that the report was created from a different location. Third is the creation a revised quality management system. All efforts will stimulate improvements in efficiency and information output for the EMS system. Also, with sufficient programmatic support,

Delaware is hoping to create a web-based version of EDIN. This will vastly improve the accessibility of EDIN to providers throughout the state. Once a web-based version is developed, other useful applications can be created to work with EDIN, like a Palm® or Windows CE® version.

Finally, Delaware is looking forward to integrating into national data systems, such as the NEMSIS system (National EMS Information System). The ability to share and benchmark data with other states will be vital for continued growth and improvement of EMS care in the years to come.

On February 11, 2008 The state of Delaware issued an RFP to acquire a planning vendor to analyze the current EMS Data Information Network (EDIN) System to:    

• survey and define the current participants/stakeholders for their current and future needs,

• prepare a GAP analysis between the current data and reporting systems and the needs of the participating agencies,

• identify the existing and desired technical infrastructure (including interfaces),

• research, review and document patient care records and records management systems being used in other EMS communities,

• prepare a system requirements definition and cost estimate,

• prepare a system implementation RFP, and

• assist with the system implementation RFP review process.

This project has a  a targeted completion date of June 30, 2009.