EMSA technology

Saving lives through technology. Better computers and new medicines have turned ambulances into emergency rooms on wheels. <br><br>KOTV's Donn Robertson says some of the new tools that could save

Monday, March 26th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Saving lives through technology. Better computers and new medicines have turned ambulances into emergency rooms on wheels.

KOTV's Donn Robertson says some of the new tools that could save your life at a moment's notice. Merle Potter became a paramedic for one reason. "I've always been interested in trying to help people out. "He's been working on an ambulance for ten years and is continually amazed on the advances in technology and looks forward to the future. "It's going to be wonderful."

Soon ambulances will be able to send life saving information digitally so emergency workers at the hospital can read it. "So we have an EKG at the hospital, when we get you to the hospital." Within the last two years, Potter says advances in computers and new medicine to relieve heart attacks are making the term ER on wheels stick. "There are a lot of things they do in the ER that we can do in the back of the truck." Now EMSA ambulances are riding on air.

The newest technology isn't necessarily going to save lives, but it's going to decrease the pain. "It used to be if you had a hip fracture or back pain the old trucks would just shake you." Potter says all EMSA ambulances in Northeast Oklahoma now have new air ride suspension systems making the ride much smoother. "Don't have to worry about getting tossed into the wall." And making it easier for paramedics to do their jobs by saving lives.

If you'd like to sign up for EMSA's Total Care program, which covers necessary ambulance bills not covered by insurance, you have until next Saturday, March 31st.