A statewide analysis of the current status of North Carolina's emergency medical services and future requirements for such services was initiated in April, 1972. Assistance is being provided to the State of North Carolina in setting up a well-planned Emergency Medical Service Program, fully responsive to the needs of the people of the State and to Federal guidelines. The study includes a comprehensive survey of existing emergency ambulance services in North Carolina, projecting demand five years into the future, and developing a comprehensive plan for meeting emergency medical service needs. Motor vehicle accidents represent a primary source of demand, but other types of emergency needs are included. The survey data are processed so that the resulting file can form the basis of a management information system in the future.