COVID Vigilance and Return to Work Guidance

All EMS Providers & First Responders,
I want to thank all of you for your hard work and diligence throughout the COVID-19 period.  I have received several compliments from area hospitals about how well our providers have taken appropriate infection control precautions, managed potential COVID patients brought in the ED,  donned appropriate PPE.  This is reflected in the fact that our providers have transported numerous COVID patients without becoming infected.

While the number of COVID cases across NYS has decreased dramatically, we are still seeing sustained low levels of transmission in the community.  Remind all your responders to remain vigilant when responding to calls to ensure appropriate social distancing, limit the number of responders in contact with the patient and family/bystanders, screen patients for COVID symptoms or contacts, and to wear appropriate PPE for all calls.  We don't want to see any of our providers exposed to the virus.
 
Attached you will also the NYS DOH guidance for healthcare workers returning to work after travel or exposure to a COVID person.  This document provides appropriate precautions and timeframes for EMS providers in these circumstances.
 
Thanks again for all your continued efforts throughout the pandemic.


Brian M. Walters, D.O., FACEP, FAAEM