About Tufts Emergency Medical Service

Since 1985, Tufts Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) has provided prompt, quality medical aid to the Tufts Community. TEMS is in service during the school year 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students who are Massachusetts-certified Emergency Medical Technicians volunteer their time to care for the sick and injured with competency and compassion.

Each year TEMS EMTs respond to more than 400 requests for aid. The call volume ranges from non-emergency calls to life-threatening emergencies. During automobile accidents, heart attacks, asthma attacks, or other life-threatening emergencies the rapid response often helps make the difference between life and death. All of the EMTs are trained to the highest standards, with continuing education sessions held throughout the school year to expand and hone the skills of members.

Tufts EMS is an entirely student-run organization. An elected board of eight directors manages TEMS’ operations, finance, training, education, quality assurance, technical supplies, and community relations. They are funded by and operate under the authority of the Tufts University Department of Public Safety. TEMS works with and enjoys the support of the Tufts University Police Department, Tufts University Health Service, the Dean of Students Office, and the entire student body.

Tufts EMS employs the use of a Ford Explorer Class V Ambulance. All equipment that would be found on a normal Basic Life Support ambulance is carried in the TEMS truck. Enhanced basic life support equipment including a cardiac defibrillator is also carried. In the event that a patient needs to be transported to a hospital the services of a private ambulance company are called upon. If a patient’s condition is critical an Advanced Life Support unit from any of the nearby ambulance companies will be summoned.