This recognition measures their ability to treat chest pain patients by acquiring a 12 Lead EKG, the prompt notification of the PCI Center Hospital if indicating a heart attack (STEMI), and transportation to the right capable hospital for definitive care.
Earning the “Silver” award moves Goochland County Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services into the next quality care category, in the previous two years Goochland County received the “Bronze’ award. They were one of only twenty-six EMS agencies across the state recognized for the various levels (Bronze, Silver & Gold).
The American Heart Association noted, “collaboration among pre-hospital and hospital providers is the essence of Mission: Lifeline. The American Heart Association recognizes the vital importance Emergency Medical System providers provide to the overall success of Mission: Lifeline STEMI Systems of Care. The correct tools and training allow EMS providers to rapidly identify the STEMI, promptly notify the destination center and trigger an early response from the awaiting hospital personnel. As an EMS agency that delivers education in STEMI identification, provides access to 12 lead ECG machines and develops protocols derived from ACC/AHA STEMI Guidelines, your medics are driving improvements in the care and outcomes of STEMI patients.”
According to County Administrator John Budesky, “Receiving the Silver Mission Lifeline award is another demonstration of Goochland County’s commitment to continuously improving and enhancing our public safety and emergency medical response for our citizens and visitors.”
“Goochland County Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services strives for continuous improvement in the delivery of Fire and Emergency Medical services. The skill level of our BLS and ALS EMS providers, supported by excellent equipment and progressive medical direction, allows us to deliver high quality care to our patients. We are honored and proud to have received the American Heart Association EMS Silver Mission Lifeline Award achievement, and look forward to future advancements in emergency cardiovascular care,” said Eddie Ferguson, Jr., Deputy Chief of EMS, Goochland County Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services. “We appreciate and are grateful for everyone’s support which makes all of this possible.”
