HSHS St. Elizabeth’s gains state recognition as EMS System Resource Hospital
HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, Ill., was formally recognized today as a Region 4 EMS System Resource Hospital by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Two partnering EMS agencies were welcomed during a recognition ceremony at the hospital.
A Resource Hospital is a hospital with the authority and the responsibility for an EMS System as outlined in the IDPH-approved EMS System Program Plan. As the Resource Hospital for EMS entities, St. Elizabeth’s assumes responsibility for the entire EMS program of partnering agencies, including the clinical aspects, operations and educational programs. This hospital also provides medical supplies and equipment for participating EMS vehicles.
“Becoming a Resource Hospital was an important step for HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital to show our ongoing commitment to the frontline Emergency Medical teams that provide needed medical care to patients in our region each and every day,” said Patti Fischer, interim president and chief executive officer at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “As we strive to be the leading health and wellness destination for patients, we are very excited to be able to further serve the region through this supportive program.”
Washington County EMS and O’Fallon-Shiloh Emergency Services are the first agencies to partner with St. Elizabeth’s within the EMS System Program Plan. Ongoing outreach will continue from the hospital to continue to grow the program.
“We have a strong working relationship with all of the local EMS agencies who bring patients to St. Elizabeth’s and becoming a Resource Hospital is a step forward in enhancing those relationships,” said Brad Perry, EMT-P and manager of Emergency Services at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “Through ongoing education and resources, EMS professionals will be able to grow their clinical skills and certifications which is a benefit for each patient and family they touch out in the field.”
PHOTO: Team members from Washington County EMS, O’Fallon-Shiloh Emergency Services and ARCH Air Medical joined HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital emergency department staff to celebrate the announcement of St. Elizabeth’s recognition as a Region 4 EMS System Resource Hospital.
