Thurston County's Medic One ambulance service has become the first in the United States to earn accreditation for on-board ultrasound imaging, the county announced December 2, 2025. All eight Medic One units are now equipped with ultrasound technology.
Eighty Medic One paramedics completed the training requirements of the Clinical Ultrasound Accreditation Program to achieve the designation. The accreditation recognizes both the equipment installation and the paramedics' demonstrated skills in using it.
Ultrasound imaging in ambulances allows paramedics to assess patients in the field before reaching a hospital, potentially improving care for trauma, cardiac, and other serious medical emergencies. Thurston County residents who call 911 for a medical emergency may now receive this diagnostic capability during transport.