Re: Physician-Staffed Helicopters

[Rick Cosmar <crescue@coshocton.com>]

Well stated Dr. Thomson.  Direct and to the point. I was hoping someone
would shed light on this aspect on this subject of who is better to
staff a helicopter. Unfortunately if this were to come from anyone other
than a physician it would be attributed to sour grapes I'm afraid.

It's all about speed.  The goal of getting the patient to a Level 1 or 2
trauma center is what it is all about. Not lets see how many invasive
procedures we can do before we lift.  This goes for any configuration of
crews. Playing in a sending facility is a waste of valuable time that
could be better spent in the OR at the receiving facility in sterile
conditions. Anything I do in the field or in the rear of a Helicopter is
at best the worst conditions found in any hospital during a trauma.
Clean is the goal but it just doesn't happen that way when space and
conditions are limited. No matter if your in a S-76 or a BK-117 quarters
are limited.

It's my opinion that what I offer is my experience of 23 years and a
really fast ride to a Trauma physician who is really equipped to fix the
problem.  I'm pretty much set to put a band aid on until we get there.
I'm not downplaying my position in the field. I have much to offer and
have one goal in mind. Get them there in better shape than I found
them.!

Rick Cosmar
Flight Paramedic
Medflight of Ohio # 4 ship.

This is my opinion and does not reflect the opinions of my company or
it's medical directors.




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