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Certified responders able to provide expanded medical care
Bastrop/Travis County Emergency Services District No. 1 has become the first fire department in Bastrop County licensed as an Advanced Life Support provider, allowing firefighters to deliver more advanced medical care before an ambulance arrives.
The designation, issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services, follows years of preparation including advanced medical training, equipment upgrades, medical director review and a state inspection. Six firefighters have completed the training to operate under the advanced protocols, according to Assistant Chief Mark Wobus.
“They have the ability to perform a few more lifesaving skills,” Wobus said. “Instead of the fire truck arriving and us doing limited medical interventions we can actually start those advanced medical interventions — we don’t have to wait for the ambulance or the helicopter to get there.” The department’s expanded capabilities include administering additional medications and starting IVs during medical and trauma calls. For trauma patients, including those injured in car crashes, firefighters can now begin IVs and provide fluids immediately.
The department’s medical protocols fall under the Travis County Division of Clinical Practices and Education, which has provided ongoing training and support, according to officials.
Wobus said the change is significant because it gives patients earlier access to advanced medical care during all types of emergencies.
ESD No. 1 officials said it plans to work alongside Bastrop County ESD No. 3 and Austin-Travis County EMS during medical emergencies.
