Vaccination of the Elderly in Assisted Living by the Israeli Emergency Medical Services

2021 ◽  
Vol 111 (7) ◽  
pp. 1223-1226
Author(s):  
Eli Jaffe ◽  
Keren Dopelt ◽  
Nadav Davidovitch ◽  
Yuval Bitan
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living ◽  
The Elderly ◽  
Vulnerable Population ◽  
Entire Population ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living Facilities ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Two Parameters

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Israel was called on to vaccinate the most vulnerable population—the elderly in assisted living facilities and their caregivers. Two parameters led the operation: (1) maximum use of the scarce COVID-19 vaccine, and (2) minimizing the time it took to reach this entire population. We present the process of vaccinating 126 245 people in two weeks at 756 locations countrywide, focusing on the planning and logistics of this operation. Resilience, flexible logistics, and dedicated personnel provided an efficient public health operation.

scholarly journals IMPACT OF AGING POPULATIONS ON MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S956-S956
Author(s):  
Nidya Velasco Roldan ◽  
Caitlin E Coyle ◽  
Michael Ward ◽  
Jan Mutchler
Keyword(s):  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living ◽  
Local Governments ◽  
Emergency Services ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living Facilities ◽  
Older Population ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Age Related ◽  
Aging Populations

Abstract The services that residents require from their local governments vary depending on the demographics of their populations. While municipalities have long sought to consider how changes in the young population may impact their school system needs, few systematic considerations have been developed relating to how aging populations may impact municipal service provision. This study aims to address this issue by focusing on demands on emergency services at the municipal level. Using data from the Massachusetts Ambulance Trip Record Information System (MATRIS) we explore the association between emergency medical services (EMS) demand and population age-structure. The data shows an overrepresentation of older people among EMS users. People age 65 and older represent 16% of Massachusetts’ population but account for 31% of the transported emergent calls —e.g., 911 calls— and 60% of the scheduled transports. Results from the OLS regression analysis suggest that communities with larger shares of older residents have significantly higher numbers of EMS calls. The type of community and other age-related community features such as the percentage of older residents living alone and the percentage of older population dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid are also significantly associated with the number of EMS calls. Contrary to our expectations, other resources available in the community such nursing homes or assisted living facilities were not significantly associated with number of EMS calls. Our research indicates that if growth in the older population occurs as projected, the demand placed on the EMS system by older populations will grow considerably in coming decades.

scholarly journals Public access defibrillation: utilisation and missed opportunities

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chris Cunningham ◽  
Jared R Lowe ◽  
Arthur Johnson ◽  
William Carter ◽  
William M Whited ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living ◽  
Public Awareness ◽  
Public Access ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Assisted Living Facilities ◽  
Missed Opportunities ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Private Homes ◽  
Missed Opportunity

IntroductionAutomated external defibrillators (AEDs) for public use are becoming increasingly prevalent, but little is known about utilisation. The purpose of this study was to compare the locations of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) to the locations of AEDs to determine whether missed opportunities exist.MethodsA retrospective study was performed of all OHCAs in which resuscitation was attempted between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2010 in Orange County, North Carolina, United States of America, a mixed suburban/rural emergency medical services (EMS) system. Emergency medical services records were used to determine public AED utilisation and OHCA location. The locations were plotted on a map using ArcGIS. Businesses, public buildings and facilities located within a 100 metre radius of each OHCA were surveyed to determine AED availability. Data were analysed using standard descriptive statistics.ResultsDuring the study period, 307 OHCAs occurred at 282 locations. Of these, 219 (71%) occurred in private homes, 26 (9%) in nursing or assisted living facilities, and 62 (20%) in public locations. An AED location was within 100 metres of an OHCA location in 22 cases. Five cases were excluded due to the arrest being witnessed by EMS, and late or unknown AED installation time. Of the remaining 17 OHCAs, seven (41%) had a nearby AED that was not used, constituting a missed opportunity for deployment.ConclusionIn nearly half of OHCAs that have a nearby public AED, the AED was not utilised. This suggests that public awareness and accessibility of AED locations should be improved.

scholarly journals (A231) Deficiencies in the Preparedness of Emergency Medical Services Providers for Terrorist Incidents Involving Children

2011 ◽  
Vol 26 (S1) ◽  
pp. s63-s63
Author(s):  
M. Reilly
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
United States ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
A Priori ◽  
The United States ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Special Populations ◽  
Provider Education ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Nationally Representative

IntroductionRecent studies have discussed major deficiencies in the preparedness of emergency medical services (EMS) providers to effectively respond to disasters, terrorism and other public health emergencies. Lack of funding, lack of national uniformity of systems and oversight, and lack of necessary education and training have all been cited as reasons for the inadequate emergency medical preparedness in the United States.MethodsA nationally representative sample of over 285,000 emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics in the United States was surveyed to assess whether they had received training in pediatric considerations for blast and radiological incidents, as part of their initial provider education or in continuing medical education (CME) within the previous 24 months. Providers were also surveyed on their level of comfort in responding to and potentially treating pediatric victims of these events. Independent variables were entered into a multivariate model and those identified as statistically significant predictors of comfort were further analyzed.ResultsVery few variables in our model caused a statistically significant increase in comfort with events involving children in this sample. Pediatric considerations for blast or radiological events represented the lowest levels of comfort in all respondents. Greater than 70% of respondents reported no training as part of their initial provider education in considerations for pediatrics following blast events. Over 80% of respondents reported no training in considerations for pediatrics following events associated with radiation or radioactivity. 88% of respondents stated they were not comfortable with responding to or treating pediatric victims of a radiological incident.ConclusionsOut study validates our a priori hypothesis and several previous studies that suggest deficiencies in preparedness as they relate to special populations - specifically pediatrics. Increased education for EMS providers on the considerations of special populations during disasters and acts of terrorism, especially pediatrics, is essential in order to reduce pediatric-related morbidity and mortality following a disaster, act of terrorism or public health emergency.

The 1994 Northridge Earthquake Disaster Response: The Local Emergency Medical Services Agency Experience

1996 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 172-179 ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel J. Stratton ◽  
Virginia Price Hastings ◽  
Darlene Isbell ◽  
John Celentano ◽  
Miguel Ascarrunz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Disaster Response ◽  
Communication Systems ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Northridge Earthquake ◽  
Power Sources ◽  
Incident Command ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
1994 Northridge Earthquake

AbstractIntroduction:This paper describes the 1994 Northridge earthquake experience of the local emergency medical services (EMS) agency. Discussed are means that should improve future local agency disaster responses.Methods:Data reported are descriptive and were collected from multiple independent sources, and can be reviewed publicly and confirmed. Validated data collected during the disaster by the Local EMS Agency also are reported.Results:The experience of the Los Angeles County EMS Agency was similar to that of earthquake disasters previously reported. Communication systems, water, food, shelter, sanitation means, power sources, and medical supplies were resources needed early in the disaster. Urban Search and Rescue Teams and Disaster Medical Assistance Teams were important elements in the response to the Northridge earthquake. The acute phase of the disaster ended within 48 to 72 hours and public health then became the predominant health-care issue. Locating community food and water supplies near shelters, providing transportation to medical care, and public-health visits to shelter locations helped prevent the development of long-term park encampments. An incident command system for the field, hospitals, and government responders was necessary for an organized response to the disaster.Conclusion:Disaster preparedness, multiple forms of reliable communication, rapid mobilization of resources, and knowledge of available state and federal resources are necessary for a disaster response by a local EMS agency.

Trauma System Development and Future Directions

1993 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 111-114 ◽  
Author(s):  
Judith B. Braslow ◽  
Joan A. Snyder
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Trauma Care ◽  
System Development ◽  
Trauma System ◽  
The United States ◽  
Advisory Council ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Care Systems

AbstractTraumatic injury, both unintentional and intentional, is a serious public health problem. Trauma care systems play a significant role in reducing mortality, morbidity, and disability due to injuries. However, barriers to the provision of prompt and appropriate emergency medical services still exist in many areas of the United States. Title XII of the Public Health Service Act provides for programs in support of trauma care planning and system development by states and localities. This legislation includes provisions for: 1) grants to state agencies to modify the trauma care component of the state Emergency Medical Services (EMS) plan; 2) grants to improve the quality and availability of trauma care in rural areas; 3) development of a Model Trauma Care System Plan for states to use as a guide in trauma system development; and 4) the establishment of a National Advisory Council on Trauma Care Systems.

scholarly journals Harmonization of three public health insurance schemes on emergency medical services

2014 ◽  
Vol 14 (S1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wannapha Bamrungkhet ◽  
Sutherada Chimnoi ◽  
Samrit Srithamrongsawat ◽  
Supasit Pannarunothai
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Health Insurance ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Public Health Insurance ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Emergency Medical

A Public Health Enforcement Initiative to Combat Underage Drinking Using Emergency Medical Services Call Data

2012 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 167-171
Author(s):  
Daniel L. Lemkin ◽  
Michael C. Bond ◽  
Donald W. Alves ◽  
Richard A. Bissell
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Alcohol Intoxication ◽  
Underage Drinking ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Government Officials ◽  
Societal Costs ◽  
Response Data ◽  
Emergency Medical ◽  
Disproportionate Number

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine whether Emergency Medical Services (EMS) records can identify bars that serve a disproportionate number of minors, and if government officials will use this data to direct underage drinker enforcement efforts.MethodsEmergency Medical Services call logs to all bars in the study area were cross-referenced with a local hospital's records. The records of patients with alcohol-related complaints were analyzed. Outlier bars were identified, and presented to government officials who completed a survey to assess if this information would prompt new enforcement efforts.ResultsEmergency Medical Services responded to 149 establishments during the study period. Eighty-four responses were distributed across six bars, and 78 were matched with the hospital's records. Fifty-one patients, 18 (35%) of whom were underage, were treated for alcohol intoxication, with 46% of the cases originating from four bars. Government officials found the information useful, and planned to initiate new operations based on the information.ConclusionsAlcohol consumption by minors can lead to life-long abuse, with high personal, financial, and societal costs. Emergency Medical Services response data and hospital records can be used to identify bars that allow underage drinking, which is useful in directing law enforcement efforts.Lemkin DL, Bond MC, Alves DW, Bissell RA. A public health enforcement initiative to combat underage drinking using emergency medical services call data. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(2):1-5.

scholarly journals Emergency Medical Services Public Health Implications and Interim Guidance for the Ebola Virus in the United States

2014 ◽  
Vol 15 (7) ◽  
pp. 723-727 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher McCoy ◽  
Shahram Lotfipour ◽  
Bharath Chakravarthy ◽  
Carl Schultz ◽  
Erik Barton
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
United States ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Ebola Virus ◽  
The United States ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Health Implications ◽  
Emergency Medical

Using Emergency Medical Services Data to Monitor Nonfatal Opioid Overdoses in Real Time

2021 ◽  
Vol 136 (1_suppl) ◽  
pp. 40S-46S
Author(s):  
Benjamin D. Hallowell ◽  
Laura C. Chambers ◽  
Jason Rhodes ◽  
Melissa Basta ◽  
Samara Viner-Brown ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Emergency Medical Services ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Rhode Island ◽  
Keyword Search ◽  
Case Definition ◽  
Outbreak Detection ◽  
Medical Services ◽  
Opioid Overdose ◽  
Emergency Medical

Objective No case definition exists that allows public health authorities to accurately identify opioid overdoses using emergency medical services (EMS) data. We developed and evaluated a case definition for suspected nonfatal opioid overdoses in EMS data. Methods To identify suspected opioid overdose–related EMS runs, in 2019 the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) developed a case definition using the primary impression, secondary impression, selection of naloxone in the dropdown field for medication given, indication of medication response in a dropdown field, and keyword search of the report narrative. We developed the case definition with input from EMS personnel and validated it using an iterative process of random medical record review. We used naloxone administration in consideration with other factors to avoid misclassification of opioid overdoses. Results In 2018, naloxone was administered during 2513 EMS runs in Rhode Island, of which 1501 met our case definition of a nonfatal opioid overdose. Based on a review of 400 randomly selected EMS runs in which naloxone was administered, the RIDOH case definition accurately identified 90.0% of opioid overdoses and accurately excluded 83.3% of non–opioid overdose–related EMS runs. Use of the case definition enabled analyses that identified key patterns in overdose locations, people who experienced repeat overdoses, and the creation of hotspot maps to inform outbreak detection and response. Practice Implications EMS data can be an effective tool for monitoring overdoses in real time and informing public health practice. To accurately identify opioid overdose–related EMS runs, the use of a comprehensive case definition is essential.

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