3 ms·
This definitely sounds like a failure in the system in your area. Here (PNW) any first responder (but not LE) can _request_ airlift. Specifically in my county:
by FireBeyond 4y ago
This definitely sounds like a failure in the system in your area. Here (PNW) any first responder (but not LE) can _request_ airlift. Specifically in my county:
> Any field provider may request air transport via [our 911 dispatch]. An ALS (Advanced Life Support/paramedic) upgrade is required. Transport necessity and destination shall be determined by the ALS provider in consultation with the medical control physician on duty.
"if this person had internal injuries and destabilized during flight"
Well, in that case, bluntly, the choice of transport probably isn't the biggest concern. Secondarily, our protocols also discuss transportation by ground to a lower tier facility that's close to provide some stabilization before air transport to an appropriate facility.
- Pigalowda 4y agoI’m also in PNW and we agree - a trained first responder or EMT can request air medivac. Once approved it sets in motion a system that will deliver the patient (unless the patient refuses in the end). Also destabilization during air medivac is not uncommon, choice of transport does therefore matter. The flight nurse is very capable and able to perform immediate life saving procedures during flight. Medivac flights aren’t just helicopter rides, there’s active treatment going on. And in the case of a patient who is stable but could deteriorate there is the potential for immediate response.