Patients with low signs of COVID-19 may not be transported by ambulance, MedStar says
MedStar ambulance service officials announced Wednesday they will not transfer to an emergency rooms patients with low medical complaints who are identified as potentially having COVID-19.
Patients will receive a full assessment by on-scene EMS personnel, and if they do not have any priority conditions or significant risks, they will be told to contact their primary care provider. These patients also will be provided with information on home care and self-monitoring instructions.
In addition, the patient will be given information on how to undergo further evaluation and testing for COVID-19 through the community health system processes available.
The last time MedStar officials modified their on-scene patient referral procedures was in 2010 during a flu pandemic.
MedStar and area first responders within the Metropolitan Area EMS Authority started modifying the changes on Wednesday.
MedStar provides advanced life support ambulance service to Fort Worth and 14 surrounding cities. It has a fleet of 65 ambulances and responds to about 150,000 calls each year.
According to MedStar officials, the changes are being implemented for these reasons:
▪ Reduce the risk of patients being exposed to contagious illnesses.
▪ Assure patients receive proper care in the most appropriate setting.
▪ Help assure essential hospital services are available for critical patients.
Patients who are not transported will be given a copy of home care instructions, which includes covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throwing used tissues in a lined trash can, and immediately washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If a patient develops emergency warning signs for COVID-19, they should get medical attention or call 911. Emergency signs include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, and bluish lips or face.
