UPMC Susquehanna has received a US $ 100,000 grant from the PPL Foundation to fund a special response vehicle that was first used to deliver COVID vaccinations to seniors in Williamsport on Monday in a high-rise building.
“This project will be a long time coming” Jim Slotterback, UPMC's emergency preparedness manager, said. “This is a collaborative venture that will benefit all of us.”
The great “Ambulance” Slotterback says it can accommodate 15 non-outpatients, 10 wheelchair or stretcher patients, five crew members and is “Easily configurable” depending on the necessary circumstances.
“I'm still in awe that it is here” he said.
The main role of the vehicle is to assist in major evacuations in the event of power outages or unforeseen situations or in severe situations in motor vehicle accidents.
This “Special Response Vehicle” Eventually, it will also be used for mobile clinics, screening appointments, vaccinations, and even for on-site preparation at the Little League World Series, according to Sherry Watts, vice president of the Susquehanna Health Foundation.
Eventually, the vehicle will have solar panels and an awning, as well as remote monitoring and WiFi to connect to hospital networks. It also includes a rear ramp that allows the vehicle to be lower in the back to help patients inside, much like many ambulances do.
“This is a valuable device” She said. “We're very excited to have this in the community.”
The vehicle is mainly used by Susquehanna Regional EMS employees, but UPMC Williamsport employees are also trained, according to Watts.
“This shows a sense of comfort to this community” Tracie Witter, regional affairs director for PPL Electric Utilities.
According to Witter, this was the first evaluation request for the grant.
“Security is really important (for PPL)” She said. “This is high on the agenda … it is in line with the safety culture.”
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