Fayetteville VA Launches New Ambulance Service
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center placed three new ambulances into service on June 17 expanding the availability of emergency medical transportation to meet the growing demand for emergency transport services.
The Fayetteville VA service area is among the fastest growing within VA. “Our new emergency ambulance service is an extension of the transport services provided to Veterans by our community partners,” said Marri Fryar, Executive Director, Fayetteville VA Coastal Health System. “With the growth across the area, adding additional services is important to maintaining quality and access.”
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center urgent care department transitioned to an emergency department two year ago. As information about the new emergency department was shared, the number of Veterans being seen daily continues to increase, according to Dr. Anthony K. Vogt, Emergency Ambulance Service Chief. On average 100 Veterans receive care at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center emergency department. ‘The objective is to expand the options for emergency transport and continuity of care rather than relying solely on contracted service,” added Vogt.
The Emergency Ambulance Service program is funded by the VA Office of Rural Health for the first three years. Vogt said that long-term goals include transport in a wider catchment area for Veterans in need of transport for emergency and non-emergent care.
The ambulances are staffed by emergency medical technicians and paramedics trained to provide services from basic life support to advanced medical care. “These ambulances are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the Stryker Lucas III system, which ensures consistent chest compressions,” said David Crowell, Supervisory Paramedic. “This feature maximizes the efficiency of the onboard technicians to concentrate on other crucial aspects of patient care.”
Crowell and his three-person team have spent several months completing training and competency assessments. In April, they completed simulations with the VA National Simulation Center and representatives from across VA to help ensure that they were prepared to provide safe, competent and compassionate care.
According to Dr. Cheryl D. Perry, Interim Chief of the Emergency Department, the new service demonstrates our proactive approach and commitment to addressing the immediate needs of our Veterans. “This strategic decision not only showcases our agility and responsiveness but also underscores our dedication to providing essential medical transportation services promptly, ensuring that Veterans have quicker access to a higher level of care when needed,” said Perry.