Re: weight issue

[Helodoc@aol.com]

In a message dated 2/1/2003 10:17:22 AM Eastern Standard Time, Fltrt@aol.com writes:

> One issue that we in Arizona have, is the Department of Health Services Requirements. They have a very large list of items that all ambulances (Air and Ground) must carry. At our program all AMP must weigh less than 225 and must be able to move about the aircraft including lifting and turning. The pilots do not have the weight restriction.
> Mike 


Yes, and if I recall correctly, it wasn't long ago that ALL ambulances in Florida carried a spare tire.  Perhaps it would be a good time to look at what equipment you really use and see if your government agency is willing to change.  I understand the difficulties in getting that to happen, but perhaps with some data and several of the services getting together (and I know the difficulties in that, too) you could get some movement.  Especially since it is something of a safety issue.

Dave Thomson
David P. Thomson, MS, MD, FACEP
Associate Professor
Director, Transport Medicine
Medical Director, Telemedicine
Department of Emergency Medicine
SUNY Upstate Medical University
750 E. Adams St.
Syracuse, NY 13210 USA
315.464.6219 voice
315.464.6220 fax