Fulda Ambulance has recently added Avel eCare to their services. This service enables Emergency Medical Services professionals to quickly call and interact with doctors, paramedics, and nurses while transporting a patient.
Stacie Menken, Fulda Ambulance Assistant Director, said, “Murray County Ambulance was the first ambulance in the state of Minnesota to pilot the Avel eCare program. Recently there was a launch of the Telehealth National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grant. This project brings together Southwest Minnesota Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Avel eCare EMS, and the University of Minnesota.”
She continued by saying that they coordinated with the SWEMS group that offers support and assistance to rural ambulances to be able to receive the grant.
Included in the AVEL eCare EMS is the ability to provide virtual triage and consulting services through two-way audio and video in the back of the ambulance.
Based in Sioux Falls, SD, Avel eCare provides 24/7 access to a team of board-certified emergency physicians experienced paramedics and nurses who render emergency care, as well as peer-to-peer support for EMS agencies throughout the country.
Avel eCare’s goal is to deliver the highest quality care possible while ensuring a quality user experience.
The Fulda Ambulance vehicle has been equipped with a cabin-mounted telehealth tablet, microphones, speakers, and antennas to support strong connectivity while in use. The technology used for Avel eCare is well-suited to work in noisy environments and has been designed to augment the services and actions of EMS personnel. EMS crews can call Avel eCare EMS and, within moments, be connected with an Avel eCare EMS clinician.
“We always pray that we never have to use the program. However, it is a great resource to have in the back of a rural ambulance to assist if necessary,” Menken stated. “This service helps with a range of difficult tasks including, but not limited to, assisting in triage, skills, trauma, peer-to-peer and procedural decisions. It will not replace any of our current protocols or training.”
The Avel eCare program was developed by knowledgeable folks with EMS experience.
Fulda Ambulance is searching for people who are willing to train and join this very necessary service for our area. If you are willing to become an Emergency Medical Technician, please contact Julie Burchill at Fulda City Hall (507-425-2504) for more information.
