EMSWorld.com: Congressman Marc Veasey to Do MedStar Orientation
Editor's Note: At the same time that ACEP is highlighting the need for increased support from Congress for the nation's emergency care infrastructure, this ride-along provides an example of how EMS officials and legislators can collaborate to increase awareness of needs at local, state and national levels. EMS on the Hill Day presents all providers an opportunity to educate Congress on the daily challenges of providing quality emergency medical care, and to advocate for support of legislation that addresses those challenges.
Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) will be doing an orientation and ride-along with MedStar's Mobile Healthcare Team on Friday, January 17th starting at 9 a.m.
As a newly elected member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Veasey is committed to promoting health and wellness, and ensuring access to quality healthcare.
Congressman Veasey will learn how MedStar, the area hospitals and other healthcare providers, have collaborated to create the nation's most widely recognized Mobile Integrated Healthcare system, one that has received multiple national awards for innovation and patient outcomes.
Mr. Veasey will ride with one of MedStar's Mobile Healthcare paramedics conducting home visits and responding to patients with special needs to see how these patients are being effectively navigated through the healthcare system. He will also spend time with MedStar's 911 Triage Nurse learning how this program is helping low-acuity 911 callers receive the most effective resource for their medical needs, which often results in the prevention of an ambulance response and unnecessary trip to the hospital emergency department.
Doug Hooten, MedStar's Executive Director stated, "We are thrilled that Congressman Veasey will be learning the way Fort Worth's healthcare system has come together to make this a healthier and safer place to live, work and play. The groundbreaking work being done here is a model for the rest of the country. Congressman Veasey is a strong advocate for District 33 and this experience will help him understand how the changes in our nation's healthcare system have created an environment for these types of program to flourish."