The primary responsibility of the Denver Paramedic Division is to provide 911-ambulance service to the City of Denver. At peak times there are 14 Advanced Life Support (ALS) and 6 Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances available to serve the city. Each of these ambulances has a 10-hour day shift and a 10-hour night shift, with the shifts staggered throughout the day to provide continuous 24-hour coverage.

When a 911 call is made, dispatchers determine whether the call will require an ALS or BLS response. Currently, approximately 70% of calls require an ALS response, while BLS ambulances handle the remaining 30%.

BLS ambulances are staffed by two EMT-Basics trained to provide IV fluids as well as non-invasive emergency care. ALS ambulances are staffed by two paramedics, and are equipped with the latest in lifesaving technology, including: 12-lead cardiac monitors, adult and pediatric intraosseous infusion supplies, advanced airway tools, CPAP, and numerous emergency medications. Live medical control is available from the physicians of Denver Health’s emergency department, who provide instruction and advice to providers in the field.

More than 46,000 patients a year are transported by Denver Health ambulance. These patients are transported to one of twelve 911-participating emergency departments in the Denver metropolitan area, based on the patient’s need for specialty services and proximity.