Norfolk residents needing emergency medical care will be even safer because of a paramedic “flycar”—an expanded service being provided through Hartford Healthcare.
A flycar is a rapid-response emergency vehicle, typically an SUV, driven by a paramedic. The Winsted area flycar will now carry whole blood products, allowing paramedics to administer transfusions in the field.
Pre-hospital transfusions require specialized equipment as well as the ability to manage a critical patient’s other needs while establishing a successful transfusion. Previously, the response vehicles carried only saline and other fluids.
“Hartford Healthcare provides our paramedic service, and it had the opportunity to increase its level of service,” said Jon Barbagallo, point-of-information officer for emergency services in Norfolk. “It allows for quicker and better treatments, especially for trauma patients. This is a considerable step forward.”
Barbagallo said there will be no increase in costs because of the new treatment.