Hope, AR March 20, 2025— Pafford Medical Services has been recognized by The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch®(IAEDTM) as an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) for emergency medical dispatching. Pafford Medical Services is the #299 Medical ACE in the world. 

IAED is the standard-setting organization for emergency dispatch services worldwide. Accreditation (and subsequent re-accreditation) from the IAED is the highest distinction given to emergency communication centers, certifying that the center is performing at or above the established standards for the industry. Centers who earn ACE status are the embodiment of dispatch done right, and have demonstrated strong local oversight, rigorous quality processes, and a commitment to data-driven continuous improvement. 

“Behind every emergency call is a team of highly trained professionals who work tirelessly to ensure the fastest and most effective response. Achieving re-accreditation as a Medical ACE Emergency Medical Dispatch Center is not just an award—it’s a reflection of our team’s commitment to precision, excellence, and lifesaving service. The standards set by the IAED push us to be better every day, and our dispatchers continue to meet that challenge head-on. I am 

beyond proud of this team for their professionalism and dedication to providing exceptional care from the moment the phone rings”, says Crystal Gray, Communications Director at Pafford Medical Services. 

Jamie Pafford-Gresham, CEO of Pafford Medical Services, praised the team’s achievement, stating: "Re-accreditation is a rigorous process that takes place every three years, ensuring that our communications team continues to meet the highest standards in emergency medical dispatch. Earning this recognition again reflects our dispatchers' commitment and expertise. Our team serves as the first, first responders—providing lifesaving instructions, coordinating emergency responses, and ensuring the highest level of patient care. This achievement reaffirms our dedication to excellence in EMS communications and the communities we serve. I am incredibly proud of our team for maintaining these rigorous standards and continuing to set the bar for quality and professionalism." 

“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement”, said Christof Chwojka, Accreditation Board Chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated calltakers, dispatchers, and leadership team at Pafford Medical Services for their commitment to quality, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their community can count on these first, first responders to do an outstanding job.” 

IAED will present Pafford Medical Services with an Accreditation plaque that commemorates their achievement. IAED Accreditation is the culmination of a lengthy, arduous process that includes the completion of the 20 Points of Accreditation, a detailed evaluation of performance by industry experts, and a final review and ruling by IAED. 

Accreditation is valid for a three-year period, during which all standards must be upheld. Emergency communication centers can earn multiple accreditations, one for each emergency discipline they service (medical, fire, police, and emergency nurse triage).