Despite our current efforts, our citizens still do not call 911 routinely for when time really makes a difference in outcome.
For the past decade, the medical community has been encouraging people with the early signs of stroke or myocardial infarction to call for EMS as soon as possible.
Yet study after study shows that a large part of the population continues to find other means of transportation.
It’s a multi-faceted problem. People’s perception of what constitutes a 911 call, the cost of using an ambulance, the denial of symptoms, and lack of understanding of the possible consequences are but a few factors in the decision making process.
I have a suggestion. EMS Week is coming up in a few weeks. This year’s theme is “One mission, one team.”
Why not incorporate the message of having the community to do its part and calling 911 when time is of the essence? If your organization is hosting an EMS Week activity, it would be fairly simple to add in some information such as the warning signs of a stroke or heart attack, why calling EMS is critical, etc.
Doesn’t take much, and it might make a real difference in a patient’s ultimate outcome.
Consider making your EMS Week activity have more impact within your community. We make a difference!
