Thurston County's Medic One ambulance service has become the first accredited ambulance ultrasound program in the United States, the county announced December 2, 2025.
All eight Medic One ambulance units now have ultrasound imaging equipment installed. Eighty paramedics completed the training requirements of the Clinical Ultrasound Accreditation Program to earn the designation.
Ultrasound imaging allows paramedics to assess patients in the field before arriving at a hospital. Having the technology on board ambulances can help crews make faster, more informed decisions during medical emergencies.
The accreditation adds to other recent Emergency Management activity in Thurston County. In December 2025, the county also activated its Emergency Coordination Center in response to heavy rainfall and flooding, and is currently asking residents to report any damage from December 2025 storm systems, including flooding or wind damage, even if impacts appear minor.