OEMS Communications Unit
The OEMS Communications Unit is responsible for the development, implementation, and ongoing management of a comprehensive, statewide emergency medical services communication infrastructure. This includes the allocation and oversight of designated EMS radio frequencies and talk groups, VIPER IDs, as well as the coordination of EMS radio communication systems in full compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations.
VIPER Medical Network (VMN)
The Communications Unit administers the VIPER Medical Network (VMN), a dedicated sub-network within North Carolina’s statewide Voice Interoperability Plan for Emergency Responders (VIPER) radio system. This specialized medical communications network enables seamless, secure, and real-time communication between EMS providers and receiving hospitals across the state, enhancing coordination and patient care during emergency responses.
VIPER System Radio IDS
The North Carolina Office of EMS (OEMS) only issues VIPER Radio IDs directly to EMS agencies and Helicopter EMS (HEMS) programs that are not affiliated with a single county or system. EMS agencies affiliated with a county system must coordinate with their County VIPER Point of Contact (POC) to request VIPER Radio IDs. Please contact your local POC before reaching out to OEMS for VIPER ID requests. Non-affiliated EMS agencies and Helicopter EMS (HEMS) programs should submit their VIPER Radio ID requests using the designated ReadyOp Form link below. Please ensure all required information is accurate and included before submission. Please allow 3-5 days for processing of VIPER IDs. If you are updating or upgrading equipment only and do not require a new VIPER ID, please use the equipment swap link.
Does OEMS issue VIPER Radio IDs? | OEMS primarily issues VIPER Radio IDs to hospitals, standalone emergency departments, Helicopter EMS programs not affiliated with a county/system, and state healthcare agencies. In rare cases where IDs cannot be obtained from a County VIPER Point of Contact (POC), OEMS may assist. |
Do I need to request a VIPER Radio ID from OEMS? | If your agency is licensed by OEMS and affiliated with a county or system plan, request IDs from your County VIPER POC. |
How do I request a VIPER Radio ID from OEMS? | All requests must be submitted through the ReadyOp portal. Email requests are not accepted. Access the form at: VIPER ID Request Form. |
Do I need to request a new VIPER Radio ID if I am replacing or upgrading equipment? | No. Use your existing ID. You must notify OEMS by submitting a “VIPER ID Equipment Swap” form through ReadyOp: VIPER ID Equipment Swap. |
What is the difference between the VIPER ID Request Form and the VIPER ID Equipment Swap Form? | · Request Form: For new equipment that has never been on the VIPER network. · Equipment Swap Form: For replacing or upgrading a radio; the existing ID is transferred to the new unit. |
Does OEMS issue VIPER Talk Groups? | No. Talk groups must be requested from VIPER through County POCs. |
Who is my County VIPER POC? | POCs are usually affiliated with County Emergency Management or EMS agencies. Contact your local 911 center for assistance. If unavailable, email OEMS at OEMS.VIPER@dhhs.nc.gov. |
OEMS issued my VIPER ID, but I cannot locate it, can OEMS help me identify my VIPER ID? | Yes. OEMS tracks IDs by radio serial number. Send the serial number to OEMS.VIPER@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. |
Does OEMS provide radio programming or programming support? | No. Agencies should use NC VIPER-authorized commercial vendors to prevent programming errors or equipment damage. |
Does OEMS issue VIPER Advanced System Keys (ASKs)? | OEMS rarely issues ASKs. They may be provided to certified programmers with a valid operational need. |
I need a VIPER Advanced System Key (ASK) to program radios, how do I get one? | Certified agency programmers with an operational need may submit a request through the ReadyOp ASK application form. Email OEMS.VIPER@dhhs.nc.gov for the application link. |