October 3, 2001 

EMS and the ABIOCOR artificial heart

By JOHN HULTGREN
Louisville Medical Center STATCARE

LOUISVILLE — Numerous EMS agencies are starting to ask questions about what EMS might see — and how they should handle — an ABIOCOR artificial heart recipient after they are discharged to their community.

EMS agencies should be commended for anticipating this potential issue.

STATCARE is currently working with the Heart and Lung Institute at Jewish Hospital to develop an EMS information package regarding the ABIOCOR artificial heart.

We plan to present educational offerings to the EMS agencies in the community where these patients will be living. The offering will include a discussion of the technology, what can fail, the physiological impact of failure and indicators, and the appropriate action to take. We will also discuss accessing STATCARE to facilitate rapid transport of these patients.

This information will be available prior to the discharge of the patient.