The following was originally published by the Chadron Record, in Chadron, Neb.

What kind of health care system makes one of its most important rural components dependent upon bake sales and calendars for operating resources? Unfortunately, that is the situation in many rural places for their first-line and often life-saving emergency medical services (EMS). Many rural EMS providers are underfunded and face workforce and volunteer shortages. EMS agencies have placed growing demands and health care responsibilities on their often volunteer workforces.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, many EMS providers have inadequate communications infrastructure and are often isolated from the rest of the health care delivery system. A major example is the lack of access EMS providers have to medical records and medical history, something health information technology could potentially resolve if EMS providers were able to obtain the
resources to connect with other rural providers.

Click here to read more.

The following was originally published by NAEMT.

May is Stroke Awareness Month. Stroke is the third leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in our country. Knowing the signs and symptoms is essential to rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Jack suffered a stroke while on a family fishing trip. Because his brother-in-law recognized the symptoms and immediately called 911, Jack got to the hospital promptly, where he was diagnosed and treated with Activase (alteplase). He noticed an improvement within 2 months, and little by little, was able to return to most of his usual routine. Jack has since married Tessie, the love of his life!
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The following was originally published in the Paragould Daily Press in Paragould, Ark.

Arkansas Methodist Medical Center has two new ambulances equipped with the latest lifesaving technology. AMMC director of ambulance services Donald Reed said the new ambulances have technology comparable to that being used in major metropolitan areas.

“Sometimes we exceed the metropolitan areas,” he said. “San Francisco does not use any (of the technologies we have). If it’s available for Arkansas EMS, we’re using it.”

Click here to read the rest of the story…

The EMS Expo and Conference had so much fun with their first photo contest in 2008 that they decided to do it again this year!

The grand prize winner receives TWO (2) 3-day conference program packages, 3 night hotel stay and one $500 travel voucher to attend EMS EXPO, Oct. 28-30, 2009 in Atlanta, Ga. Five finalists will each receive $50 VISA gift cards!

The deadline for entry is Sept. 18, 2009. Click here to visit the conference Web site for details.