Modernizing Narcotics Security & Compliance with MedixSafe

Overview

Located in Lee County, Florida, San Carlos Park Fire Protection & Rescue District serves a rapidly growing population of 38,200 residents (spiking to 53,000 during high season) across 52 square miles. The department operates four stations, with a fifth under construction, and a fleet of 12 vehicles.

When Lucas Karth stepped into the role of EMS Division Chief in January 2024, he identified an urgent need to modernize the department’s narcotics security and compliance processes to keep up with rising operational demands.

The Challenge

Prior to upgrading their systems, San Carlos Park relied on an outdated safe with a spin dial and key lock for narcotics storage. To track access and usage, the department used pen-and-paper methods—a process both unreliable and resource-intensive.

These legacy systems made compliance with DEA regulations and maintaining accurate accountability a challenge. Division Chief Karth recognized that modern threats and increased demands required advanced tools to enhance efficiency, security, and compliance.

"San Carlos lived on legacy solutions, which were minimalist in their offering.
We were lacking in the modern age."

– Division Chief Lucas Karth

Why MedixSafe?

After researching potential solutions, Division Chief Karth chose MedixSafe paired with IntelliView for its comprehensive, future-ready capabilities. Key factors that influenced his decision included:

• Ease of Use – Intuitive features ensured easy adoption and management without hours of training.
• Flexibility – The system’s adaptability supported various operational needs.
• Enhanced Accountability – Access logs and chain-of-custody tracking reduced incidents of drug diversion and ensured proper record-keeping.
• Commitment to Innovation – MedixSafe’s ongoing focus on innovation and a clear product roadmap aligned with Division Chief Karth’s long-term vision for the department.
• RFID Visibility – Real-time tracking of narcotic inventory and assets improved efficiency and reduced errors.
• Scalability – Recognizing the department’s rapid growth, Division Chief Karth needed a solution capable of expanding alongside the increasing demands of the district.

"The goal behind all of this is to reduce the number of headaches and frustration."

– Division Chief Lucas Karth

The Solution

San Carlos Park Fire Protection & Rescue District implemented a combination of MedixSafe and IntelliView technologies, modernizing their narcotics security and inventory management processes.

Key aspects of the implementation included the installation of the following assets across the district:

• 12 Vehicle Safes – Optimizing security and accessibility for teams on the go.
• 1 Station Safe with Narcotics Tracking – Providing centralized security and digital tracking for DEA compliance.
• RFID and Smart Shelves – Advanced asset tracking to secure and monitor inventory in real-time.

Results

By adopting MedixSafe and IntelliView, San Carlos Park Fire Protection & Rescue District achieved a range of benefits across compliance, security, and operational efficiency.

1. Real-Time Access Control

The department now has instant visibility of who accessed narcotics safes, when they were accessed, and how they were accessed, improving accountability and security.

2. Stronger DEA Compliance

Digital logs of access events and detailed chain-of-custody records ensure San Carlos adheres to federal DEA regulations with ease.

3. Enhanced Operational Efficiency

Eliminating manual paper records lightened administrative loads, streamlined workflows, and allowed staff to focus on critical tasks.

4. Improved Security

The cloud-connected platform uses end-to-end encryption to secure any transmitted data, increasing the safety and integrity of operations.

5. Advanced Asset Tracking

RFID integration provides real-time oversight of inventory, making it easier for administrators to locate and replenish narcotics and other vital assets.

6. Cost Savings & Inventory Optimization

The advanced tracking solution prevents over-ordering and ensures narcotics are replenished exactly when needed. Additionally, the system tracks expiry dates, so consumables are utilized efficiently, reducing waste.

"MedixSafe and IntelliView have allowed us to save money by knowing exactly how much inventory we have at any given time. We’re only ordering what’s necessary and ensuring that no viable narcotics go to waste."

– Division Chief Lucas Karth

Transforming EMS Operations for the Future

San Carlos Park Fire Protection & Rescue District’s deployment of MedixSafe and IntelliView has been a resounding success, bringing the department into the modern era of narcotics security, compliance, and operational strategy.

By leveraging state-of-the-art technology, the department has not only enhanced security protocols but also built a sustainable, scalable system to meet the needs of a growing community.

"We needed something modern, something that would bring San Carlos Fire into this century, and MedixSafe and IntelliView delivered."

– Division Chief Lucas Karth

About MedixSafe

MedixSafe and IntelliView specialize in innovative solutions to help organizations secure and manage sensitive inventories, like medication and narcotics, with unprecedented ease and efficiency.

If you’re looking to modernize your systems with scalable and secure solutions, reach out to MedixSafe today to learn more.