Date |
SOP Name |
Summary of Change |
05-22-20 |
Draft SOP Manual |
Solicited input during two week review period May 22, 2020 through June 5, 2020 |
06-22-20 |
NEW SOP MANUAL |
SOP Manual Posted online, superseding all previous versions. |
08-24-20 |
UPDATE: Incorporates previous memo to obtain proper billing information, including medical record number, when doing ground transport for Boston MedFlight |
|
08-24-20 |
Attendance, Punctuality and Shift Work |
UPDATE: Definition of "Dedicated Vehicle" updated to include "affiliate hospital's contracted services" such as TMC Units |
08-24-20 |
Clerical Change: No change in policy, but clarified conflicting language re: number of days vs. number of hours. [up to 24 hours] |
|
08-24-20 |
UPDATE: Added "Notification" section, that employee will be notified about complaint and shall not in any way interfere with investigation or complainant / potential witnesses. |
|
08-24-20 |
NEW: Added to "Human Resources" section. Employees with observable difficulty performing work duties may be sent for evaluation |
|
08-24-20 |
NEW: Added to "Transport and Point of Entry" section. Incorporates previous memo re: interstate transports |
|
08-24-20 |
NEW: Added to "Treatment Protocol" section-- manual compressions remain the standard of care, but mechanical device is strongly encouraged during transport, or in other situations in which sustained, high-quality compressions is not possible. |
|
08-24-20 |
UPDATE: Added "Supervisory Orders" section-- orders/directives should be in clear, understandable language and followed promptly, even when relayed through Dispatch or other employee |
|
| 08-24-20 | UPDATE: Facial hair section stated no beards or goatees, updated to clarify that employees should be clean shaven (no stubble) at start of shift. |
|
| 09-28-20 | UPDATE: Clarified that policy applies to full-time employees with at least 90 days of service to be consistent with both sick time and vacation leave policies. Established a form in ESO Schedule and Attendance system for submitting paid time off request form |
|
| 09-28-20 | UPDATE: Added new section regarding "Verification of Authorized Use of Earned Sick Time". After calling out sick, employees must submit a verification form via the ESO Schedule and Attendance system attesting that sick time use was for legitimate purpose. Failing to submit the form will result in sick time use being considered unauthorized for the purpose of sick time monitoring. |
|
| 10-06-20 | NEW: Added a BILLING section, and inserted SOP regarding remote billing program |
|
| 11-01-20 | NEW: Incorporated existing SOP into EDUCATION / QA Section |
|
| 11-01-20 | NEW: Incorporated existing SOP into EDUCATION / QA Section |
|
| 11-01-20 | NEW: Incorporated existing SOP into TREATMENT PROTOCOL Section |
|
| 11-01-20 | NEW: Incorporated existing SOP into TRANSPORT & POINT OF ENTRY Section |
|
| 11-01-20 | NEW: Incorporated existing SOP into EDUCATION / QA Section |
|
| 11-23-20 | UPDATE: Deleted Norwood Hospital (Flood) and Metro-West: Natick and Quincy (closed) |
|
| 11-23-20 | UPDATE: Deleted Quincy Hospital (closed) |
|
| 11-23-20 | Shift Bids & Overtime Distribution |
NAME Change only-- Was previously called "Schedule Software and Payroll Processing" |
| 11-23-20 | UPDATE: Emphasis placed on Supervisor notification, and preliminary Supervisor Report for workplace injuries |
|
| 12-09-20 | NEW: Consolidated a number of existing policies, procedures, and practices into a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Program document. |
|
| 12-14-20 | UPDATE: Clarified distinction between a "Late Assignment" and "Mandatory Hold". Removed majority of "Mandatory Hold" language from this SOP, and moved it to a separate "Mandatory Holdover" SOP |
|
| 12-14-20 | NEW: As noted above, removed the existing Mandatory Holdover language from the "Attendance, Punctuality and Shift Work" SOP and created a separate SOP on this topic. |
|
| 12-14-20 | UPDATE: In the "Identification and Certification" section, clarified and reiterated current practice of requiring dual State (MA/RI) certification for new (as of March 1, 2020) employees assigned to the Rhode Island Division. |
|
| 12-14-20 | UPDATE: Added section about using approved vendor locations only. |
|
| 12-20-20 | NEW: Clarifies the role of "Ambulance Transport Specialist" in accordance with Massachusetts OEMS' COVID-19 emergency waiver dated 03-20-20. [Note: originally referred to as "Emergency Transport Specialist, or "ETS", but title was subsequently updated to ATS to better reflect role.] |
|
| 01-01-21 | NEW: Added summary of benefit to the Paid Time Off Section |
|
| 01-21-21 | Billing Compliance; False Claims Reporting and Whistleblower Protection |
NEW: SOPs Summarize Billing Compliance program, and overview of Federal and State laws regarding false claims and whistleblower protections. Stresses importance of accurate documentation,and mechanisms for both internal and/or external reporting. |
| 01-23-21 | UPDATE: Driver Training SOP Updated to include requirement of successful completion of an approved driver training program within 60 days of hire for certain employees, and potentially as part of driver remediation plan following an at-fault crash. |
|
| 02-11-21 | CLARIFICATION: No change to the SOP itself (thus no change to the effective date), but clarifying language is added to indicate that employees working a holiday are paid at time and one-half for up to 13 hours. |
|
| 03-11-21 | UPDATE: Added new section to reflect recent launch of "Station Check" module, and pre and post-shift checklists. |
|
| 03-11-21 | UPDATE: Inserted hyperlink to map showing approved fuel vendor locations; clarified process for obtaining fuel card when travelling out of normal service area, clarified that since Tufts PICU/NICU vehicles frequently do long distance travel, their cards are not programmed with location restriction. |
|
| 04-01-21 | NEW: Added to Special Operations Section-- standard frequencies to be used by North East Air Alliance (NEAA) helicopter air ambulances when approaching landing zone. |
|
| 04-13-21 | CLARIFICATION: Added a "Status Change" section to clarify that when an employee transitions from full-time to part-time status, they have the option at that time to request a "cash out" of accrued vacation time. |
|
| 04-15-21 | UPDATE: Crews to monitor radio or telephone from beginning of shift, updated the checklist and problem report feature in ESO |
|
| 04-15-21 | UPDATE: Company Privacy Practices updated and added to the Rules and Regulations section of Table of Contents |
|
| 05-14-21 | UPDATE: Clarified that instead of mandating the junior person working in the MUNICIPALITY, the junior eligible person on the UNIT with the vacancy would be held first. |
|
| 05-14-21 | UPDATE: In terms of witnessing controlled substance waste, in addition to a Nurse or Physician at receiving facility, we added PHARMACIST to reflect current practice in some hospitals. Also clarified that when using a Paramedic as witness, it should be a company (Brewster or EasCare) Paramedic. Additionally, added a section titled "Employee Responsibility to Report Drug Diversion". In accordance with DEA policy, any employee that suspects a fellow employee is diverting controlled substances is obligated to report this to the employer. |
|
| 05-28-21 | COVID-19 State of Emergency Ends in Massachusetts UPDATE: Emergency Procedure Change that temporarily suspended the standard requirement of a written signature on a MOLST form has expired. Written Signatures again required in accordance with OEMS Statewide Treatment Protocol 7.3 |
|
| 06-04-21 | Health & Safety / OSHA / COVID-19 |
NEW SECTION in Table of Contents |
| 06-04-21 | UPDATE: replaces "Unprotected Exposure and Infection Control" SOP. The Exposure Control Plan complies with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.1030 and identifies general hazards associated with exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials; new DICO email address created to streamline notifications to infectious control officer team. Moved to the new Health & Safety / OSHA section. |
|
| 06-04-21 | UPDATE: Eliminates routine annual TB Screening in accordance with current CDC Guidance for Healthcare workers. Moved from the HR Section to new Health & Safety / OSHA section. |
|
| 06-04-21 | NEW: Meets OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200-- reviews requirements for container labeling, Safety Data Sheets, and potentially hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Added to Health & Safety / OSHA section. |
|
| 06-04-21 | UPDATE: Relatively minor update- in the Hazard Assessment / Respirator Selection Section ( IV, part A), reference is added to the specific type of respirator used in the Paint Booth at Brockton Fleet Services. This SOP is relocated to the Health & Safety / OSHA Section as well. |
|
| 06-04-21 | UPDATE: In the Sanctioned Product section, updated that list of products is available online in Hazard Communication Program as opposed to binder. Minor clerical update, so effective date not changed: |
|
| 06-14-21 | UPDATE: New bullet point added to first paragraph noting that when dropping off or picking up a patient at a dialysis facility, Brewster / EaseCare personnel will not weigh the patient. |
|
| 07-14-21 | COVID-19: OSHA ETS |
NEW: Combined portions of several existing COVID-19 related SOPs into a single comprehensive plan to meet the requirements of recently issued OSHA COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard. Added to Health & Safety / OSHA Section. |
| 08-04-21 | UPDATE: Section on Non-Emergency Transports / Medical Necessity Form is updated to clarify that when the form is filled out by a Physician Designee (typically an RN or LPN), the name of the authorizing Physician must be documented. |
|
| 09-01-21 | NEW: Added new SOP to the Daily Attendance, Schedule and Staffing Section. Provides guidance aimed at minimizing the frequency and duration of late assignments to support employee morale and positive work environment. |
|
| 09-24-21 | UPDATE: Added "Power Stretcher" section and clarified that when removing a patient-loaded power stretcher from ambulance, crews should use the "manual override" technique to lower the undercarriage assembly. This eliminates the chance of the wheel assembly catching on the bumper or other obstruction and inadvertently raising the stretcher. |
|
| 09-28-21 | NEW: Added new SOP to the "Vehicle Operation and Response" Section. In an effort to ensure vehicles are maintained in a state of readiness, this SOP clarifies minimum equipment to be kept in ready-reserve spare units. |
|
| 10-01-21 | UPDATE: Added a paragraph to reflect that MA Units should complete the daily medication count, including listing expiration dates, on new electronic form in ESO. |
|
| 10-01-21 | Operations Org. Chart |
UPDATE: Updated OPS Org Chart |
| 10-07-21 | UPDATE: Clarified primary on-line medical control (OLMC) sites for municipal 911 units. |
|
| 10-07-21 | Computer Network / Information Technology |
NEW SECTION in Table of Contents |
| 10-07-21 | Computer Access and Security, Computer System Backup and Patching, Data Destruction and Sanitization, Data Incident Response Plan, Written Information Security Program |
Computer and Data related SOPs moved to the newly created "Computer Network / Information Technology" section. |
| 10-29-21 | NEW: Added document explaining process to the "Records and Reports" section, and new tab on company website to guide people seeking a copy of their PCR. |
|
| 11-04-21 | UPDATE: Supply Forms for MWMC Pharmacy added as "Related Topic" off of the Medication Exchanges SOP |
|
| 11-18-21 | CLARIFICATION: SOP itself it not changed, but in the "Scenario" section, clarified that a RI or NH licensed ambulance is permitted to do a transfer within Massachusetts. |
|
| 11-30-21 | UPDATE: Phone number for Morton Hospital updated |
|
| 12-01-21 | On-Call ALS IFT Resource |
NEW: Pilot Program whereby an additional on-call IFT Paramedic Resource will be available during overnight hours to supplement staffing as needed-- added to Daily Attendance Section. [Discontinued / Removed 01-01-22] |
| 12-01-21 | NEW: Procedure whereby crews notify hospital liaison about their impending (10 minutes) arrival to ensure patient readiness for discharge. Added to On Scene Operations Section |
|
| 12-06-21 | Cellular Radio System Channel Plan |
NEW: Cellular Radio System Channel Plan |
| 12-08-21 | UPDATE: Quincy ALS Units with Fentanyl/Midazolam- lists minimum/max par levels, and procedure for restock. |
|
| 12-16-21 | UPDATE: Clarified that team-members are under no obligation to provide their personal cellular phone numbers to other agencies as part of contact tracing. If asked for contact information, team-members should provide their last name and unit number (if assigned to a vehicle), and the phone number for the company administrative offices.
|
|
| 12-27-21 | COVID-19: OSHA ETS |
CLARIFICATION: OSHA issued a notice that enforcement of ETS has expired. Added note clarifying that while no longer required, we will continue to follow the established SOP. No change in effective date. |
| 01-01-22 | UPDATE: Clarified language regarding "actual" vs. "observed" holiday (i.e.- when holiday falls on a weekend). Holiday pay for administrative employees applies when the holiday falls on a regularly scheduled work day. |
|
| 01-06-22 | UPDATE: Channel Plan updated as roll-out of new radio system continues across divisions- added to "Communications" section |
|
| 01-11-22 | UPDATE: List of Conflicting Organizations updated to include AMR and Coastal. Cataldo, McCall and South Shore Health removed from the list. |
|
| 01-26-22 | COVID-19: CMS Vaccination Requirement |
NEW: (Health & Safety / OSHA) Requires team members that interact with healthcare facility staff or provide care and services to their patients be vaccinated against COVID-19. Must have 1st vaccine (or exemption) by February 14th and complete primary vaccination series by March 15, 2022. |
| 02-18-22 | UPDATE: Massachusetts Statewide Treatment Protocol 6.11 option which allows Paramedics to cease resuscitative efforts in certain cases without findings of obvious death is not approved by the Affiliate Hospital Medical Director. |
|
| 03-01-22 | NEW: Added to Billing Section: Procedure for Billing Staff when submitting claim to MassHealth. |
|
| 03-14-22 | UPDATE: Added new "Facial Hair" section permitting beards; moved existing language about only company issued or approved uniform items being worn on duty up to a more prominent location in the policy statement. |
|
| 03-14-22 | Employee Upgrade; Time off Requests; Shift Trades; Mandatory Holdover |
UPDATE: Centralized "Scheduling Department" is eliminated and now handled at regional level. References to "scheduling department" in various SOPs is eliminated. Because this is a relatively minor clerical/administrative update, the effective date of the SOPs is not changed. |
| 03-14-22 | UPDATE: Previous version listed procedure for Requesting ALS Response. Updated version now includes criteria for Cancelling ALS response to conform with OEMS A/R 5-615 |
|
| 03-30-22 | Operations Organizational Chart |
UPDATE: Organizational Chart updated to reflect recent personnel changes. |
| 04-01-22 | NEW: Eliminated the previous "Paramedic/Basic Staffing" and replaced with more generic "ALS Staffing" SOP in the Treatment Protocol Section. This new/updated SOP lists the general nature of incidents requiring a dual Paramedic response. |
|
| 05-12-22 | Equal Employment Opportunity |
UPDATE: New section about reasonable accommodations added. |
| 06-13-22 | UPDATE: Paragraph added to the "Purpose" statement reminding personnel that Statewide Treatment Protocols permit EMTs and Paramedics to restrain a patient that "presents an immediate or serious threat of bodily harm to him/herself or others". Section 12 Patients that do not require soft restraints may still pose a flight risk, and should have an additional Safety Strap applied across their chest and fastened behind the head of the bed with the buckle out of reach of the patient. Use of this additional strap should be noted on the PCR. |
|
| 06-27-22 | CLARIFICATION: No change in policy, but rather a statement of existing practice. In the "Benefits During FMLA Leave" section, clarified that when an employee has exhausted their FMLA leave or are not otherwise eligible for FMLA, it is considered a reduction in hours and COBRA paperwork will be sent to the employee. |
|
| 06-28-22 | Employment and Payroll |
UPDATE: Added new section clarifying the Employee Termination and Resignation process. |
| 07-11-22 | UPDATE: Active employees and their immediate family members who receive emergency ambulance transport by Brewster/EasCare are eligible for discounts or waivers of outstanding balances. Added new section clarifying process for "Discounts or Waivers for Employees" and "Waiver of Bill: Unusual Circumstances". |
|
| 07-11-22 | UPDATE: City of Framingham contract was initiated in 2019 with all ALS, dual paramedic model. Updated SOP clarifies transition to Paramedic-Basic staffing configuration. |
|
| 07-14-22 | UPDATE: Tattoos on the head, face or neck are generally prohibited. Language updated to permit exceptions for cosmetic or permanent make-up, or head tattoos covered by hair. Guidelines for tattoos behind ears is in keeping with US Army standards. |
|
| 08-10-22 | UPDATE: Contact list of Hospital Navigators updated |
|
| 08-10-22 | UPDATE: Section on Vehicle Cleanliness updated to incorporate recent language included in OEMS A-R 1-522G |
|
| 08-10-22 | NEW: Added to Transport and Point of Entry Section. Point of Entry for Police K9 as part of "Nero's Law" Implementation. List includes phone number and links to veterinary hospitals available 24/7. |
|
| 09-01-22 | NEW: Carbon Monoxide Detector SOP added to "Equipment & Facilities" Section. |
|
| 09-07-22 | CLARIFICATION: No substantive change in the policy, but two bullet items added to clarify that (a) with supervisor approval, employees may be able to do a "shift trade" with themselves during a pay week, and (b) if a vacation day cannot be approved, or the employee does not have accrued time to cover the requested time off, it is the employee's responsibility to arrange for coverage. |
|
| 09-15-22 | Inter-State Transfers |
CLARIFICATION: OEMS recently issued a ruling that the return leg of a "wait and return" is considered a new transport, and as such only a Massachusetts licensed ambulance can initiate transport from a Massachusetts location. SOP updated to reflect that, while we have sought administrative review of the regulation. |
| 10-10-22 | UPDATE: The "Absence Notification Procedures" section is updated, to include process whereby an employee will be connected by telephone with a Field Supervisor or Operations Manager (depending on time of day / day of week) when calling out sick. |
|
| 10-17-22 | UPDATE: These Vehicle Crash related SOPs mentioned remediation and retraining after an at-fault crash, but did not specifically mention discipline. Naturally, employees have always been subject to discipline / termination for violation of Company policies, and reference is now made to the full spectrum of discipline in cases of at-fault crashes. |
|
| 11-01-22 | Employment and Payroll |
UPDATE: Added a "Qualifications for Benefits" section. If a benefits eligible employee fails to maintain the minimum required hours during any calendar month, they will be responsible for the employee portion of the insurance premium the following month. Failure to meet minimum hourly requirements in three out of twelve months will result in loss of benefit of 100% company paid premium--- insurance will still be offered, but employee will be responsible for their portion of the premium. |
| 12-01-22 | UPDATE: The Inter-State Transfer SOP was updated to clarify the vehicle and staffing certification requirements when operating across State lines. Clarifies that several Brewster vehicles are registered and/or certified in two States (RI/MA or NH/MA) and this information will be tracked in CAD and available to dispatch personnel. The "Identification and Certification" section of the "Standards of Conduct" SOP was updated to reflect requirement that clinical team-members based in New Hampshire must be certified at the appropriate level in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. |
|
| 12-16-22 | NEW: Added to "Records and Reports" Section. Reminder to crews that PCRs are to be completed and synchronized prior to clearing a patient transport. In the event a field unit clears and their trip is not synchronized, the dispatcher will give the crew a reminder via the radio. Field Supervisors will also monitor and assist as needed. |
|
| 01-01-23 | UPDATE: Employer contribution amounts updated to reflect current requirements, link added to summary of benefits poster available on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Family and Medical Leave website. [ https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-pfml-mandatory-workplace-poster-0/download ) |
|
| 01-01-23 | Driver Training Course Schedule |
UPDATE: Added Driver Training course schedule for calendar year 2023 as a hyperlink from the Driver Training SOP |
| 01-06-23 |
|
Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues updated EMS System Regulations affecting, among other things, Staffing (170.305) and Serious Incident Reporting (170.350) UPDATE: Previous version referred to COVID-19 Emergency Waiver which permitted EMT/ATS configuration for BLS unit. Updated OEMS regulations incorporate first-responder trained (ATS) individual on BLS unit. |
| 01-09-23 | CLARIFICATION: In the "Separation of Employment" section, it is clarified that all company issued uniform items, ID cards and other equipment must be returned upon end of employment. Failure to do so may result in the employee being held financially responsible for reasonable costs. Company property must be returned no later than the end of employee's last shift unless other arrangements have been approved by an Operations Manager or Human Resources. |
|
| 01-30-23 | NEW: Added this SOP to the "Human Resources" Section. Documents the process to be followed for team member's annual performance review with Supervisor. |
|
| 02-07-23 |
|
[Brockton Hospital CLOSED after Fire] |
| 02-09-23 | UPDATE: List of conflicting organizations was updated to include Great Brook EMS in New Hampshire, and to reflect recent mergers and acquisitions of services in Massachusetts |
|
| 02-27-23 | NEW: added to "Rules & Regulations" section. Clarifies permissible use of single "ear bud" or headphone for personal use while on duty in certain situations. A personal ear bud or headphone is not permissible when assigned to an incident, within a hospital, nursing home or other medical facility, or in presence of a patient. |
|
| 03-13-23 |
|
UPDATE: Except for a company issued or approved headset used in conjunction with the dispatch radio or a calltaking position, personal ear buds or headset use is not permitted within the Communication Center. |
| 03-13-23 | UPDATE: Added new section specific to Communication Center. Cellular phone must be set to silent mode. Except in case of telephone system failure team members are prohibited from making or receiving a voice call from a personal cellular phone in the Communication Center. Personnel are permitted to use phone for a reasonable amount of text messaging so long as it does not interfere with work responsibilities. [Note: "Personal Electronic Devices" deleted from manual.] |
|
| 03-13-23 | UPDATE: Emphasis placed on active (vs passive) communication when identifying patients. Instead of "Are you Mr. Jones?" and having patient nod head, ask directly: "Can you please tell me your name?" Active communication ensures the patient is actively involved in the process of verifying correct information. Whenever possible, use two patient identifiers (name, medical record number, wrist band, etc). Do not rely on room number alone. |
|
| 03-21-23 | CLARIFICATION: Clarified that ear gauges and tunnels are permitted, but must be filled with a flesh colored plug while on duty. |
|
| 04-09-23 | - - Various SOPs - - |
The company transitioned from ESO Scheduling & e-mail platform to TraumaSoft. A number of SOPs that referenced ESO were updated to reflect the change in software. Since there was no substantive change in the policy or procedure, the effective dates were unchanged. |
| 04-21-23 | NEW: Added to the "Rules & Regulations" section. Clarified that animals are not permitted in a Brewster owned or leased property with exceptions for service animals, as part of an approved emotional therapy program, or approved by a member of the Senior Leadership Team. |
|
| 04-24-23 | Equal Employment and Affirmative Action
|
UPDATE: The Affirmative Action portion was updated to include language that meets latest Federal contract requirements. UPDATE: In anticipation of distribution of the new "Brewster Belt"-- an orange stretcher strap with a specialized security buckle intended to prevent Section 12 or other flight risk patients from undoing their stretcher straps during treatment / transport. Until "Brewster Belt" is available, all Section 12 patients should have additional 9-foot strap applied. NEW: Added to "Vehicle Operation & Response" section. Overview of new GPS and on-board camera system with driver key-fobs currently being rolled out across the Fleet. |
| 05-11-23 | COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Expires |
FEDERAL and STATE COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) Expires |
| 05-12-23 | Personal Protective Equipment Guidance
Patient Care Report Documentation
COVID-19: CMS Vaccine Requirement
COVID-19 OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard |
NEW: added to "Health & Safety / OSHA" Section-- now that Public Health Emergency has expired, mandatory facemask use no longer required UPDATE: Patient signature section updated to reiterate importance of obtaining patient signature or signature of authorized representative. With elimination of the PHE, verbal consent for signature no longer an option. DELETED: With expiration of Public Health Emergency, CMS States they will end their vaccination requirement for facilities that receive funding, and their contracted providers. Final Rule issued on 6/5/23 withdraws vaccine requirement for health care staff: 2023-11449.pdf (federalregister.gov) DELETED |
| 05-12-23 |
|
UPDATE: Original version referred only to "CORI" which is Massachusetts based. Included reference to more generic "background check" and clarified types of information a third-party agency may review. UPDATE: Removed reference to responses that start or end in another division to streamline document-- any assignments given out within last 20 minutes of shift should be approved by Supervisor. |
| 05-17-23 | NEW: Added to "Treatment Protocol" section. Section 6 of the Massachusetts Pre-hospital Statewide Treatment Protocols list several Medical Director treatment options. The following options are approved for properly trained EMT/Paramedics: 6.1 BLS Bronchodilator; 6.2 ALS Needle Cricothyrotomy; 6.3 USAR Medical Specialist; 6.4 Tranexamic Acid; 6.5 BLS Check and Inject Epinephrine; 6.13 Ultrasound Device by Paramedics; 6.14 Automated Transport Ventilators |
|
| 05-24-23 | UPDATED: Added "Ambulance Transport Specialist" to definition of Operations staff; add polo shirt to list of approved uniform items as part of "RED Friday"; Clarified uniform patches: triangular shaped company patch on left shoulder with rocker above if applicable, round company patch on right sleeve designating clinical certification or assignment as appropriate. |
|
| 06-15-23 | Hospital Discharge Patient Readiness |
DELETED: SOP was removed pending reorganization of Hospital Navigator Program. |
| 08-01-23 | Floating Hospital for Children |
DELETED: removed SOP regarding NICU coverage as contract has expired. |
| 08-24-23 | Shift Bids and Overtime Distribution |
CLARIFICATION: When filling a vacancy, preference will be given to minimizing the number of overtime hours incurred. Thus, vacancies will be offered to per diem employees seeking to meet their minimum number of hours, then part-time employees, then a full-time employee with less than 40 hours scheduled and then a full-time employee already scheduled for at least 40 hours. (Previous version of the SOP referred to full time employee, but did not distinguish between 36 and 40 hour schedule) |
| 08-27-23 | NEW: Standardizes Defibrillator Pad placement used by Quincy Fire Department intended to limit interruption of chest compression and provide alternate vector defibrillation in the case of refractory ventricular fibrillation |
|
| 09-12-23 | UPDATE: "Wait & Return" section added- in cases where appointment is expected to be relatively brief (< 20 minutes), crew may be advised to "wait and return". If patient is remaining on stretcher during appointment, crew must remain with patient, patient remain properly restrained, and stretcher at lowest practical height with wheels properly locked. |
|
| 09-12-23 | CLARIFICATION: In the "Definition" Section, clarified that a properly filled out Section 12 Form does not have an expiration date. It is considered valid until it is either withdrawn or the patient is evaluated at the designated psychiatric facility. |
|
| 09-21-23 | UPDATE: Previous version included section on Resignations/Terminations. That section is removed and added as a separate SOP. |
|
| 09-21-23 | UPDATE: created as a separate SOP. Added Director of Risk Management and SVP Operations to termination decision-makers; updated notification flowchart. |
|
| 09-26-23 | UPDATE: Added paragraph noting that EMS personnel shall provide care up to their level of certification in conformance with the Statewide Treatment protocols. (105 CMR 170.330) |
|
| 09-26-23 | UPDATE: in the "Certification" section, noted that clinical employees are required to maintain their certifications in accordance with OEMS administrative requirements. (105 CMR 170.330) |
|
| 11-01-23 | UPDATE: The email address for contacting the Quincy Field Supervisor group updated to QuincyFieldOPS@BrewsterAmbulance.com All other portions of SOP remain the same, so effective date is unchanged. |
|
| 11-01-23 | UPDATE: Beginning November 1st, MA employees may use their accrued leave time to supplement their MA PFML benefits up to 100% of normal pay. Previously, this was only possible during the seven day unpaid waiting period. |
|
| 11-01-23 | UPDATE: Added new section for off-load delays at emergency departments (20 minutes); increased allotted time for scheduled "wait and return" clinic appointments to 30 minutes; added guidance for off-load delays at scheduled clinic appointments: if unable to transfer care within 20 minutes, contact Communication Center Supervisor for guidance as to whether to remain on scene or return patient to original pick-up location. |
|
| 11-13-23 | UPDATE: in the "Certification" section, clarified that if an employee with a pending expiration date on any credential does not turn in a renewed copy within 48 hours prior to the expiration date, the employee may be removed from their scheduled shift and placed on leave until such time that a renewed copy is submitted. If after 7 days a renewed certification card is not received, the employee will be subject to additional action. |
|
| 12-31-23 | Field Employee Immunization and TB Screening
Vaccination Requirement: Influenza Virus
Vaccination Requirement: COVID-19
|
UPDATE: This SOP was updated to remove references to Influenza vaccine, which is now covered in a separate SOP given new regulations and administrative requirements from OEMS. NEW: SOP reflecting recent regulation (105 CMR 170.341) and administrative requirements for EMS personnel to be vaccinated against influenza virus unless exempt. NEW: SOP reflecting recent regulation (105 CMR 170.342) and administrative requirements for EMS personnel to be vaccinated against COVID-19 unless exempt. |
| 01-01-24 | Transition from ZOLL to TraumaSoft for ePCR--- instructions on how to upload X-Series monitor information into patient care report. |
|
| 01-01-24 | NEW: Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire have had laws in place for several years regarding leave for victims of domestic violence / abuse. An SOP was added to the "Paid Time Off/ Leaves of Absence" Section of the manual to advise employees of their rights and procedures under the law. |
|
| 01-17-24 | Annual Review and Pay Increase Process
|
CLARIFICATION: Previous version correctly stated that potential pay increases will be determined during the annual budget review process. Reference to a specific percentage amount is removed as it may fluctuate from year to year. |
| 01-17-24 | UPDATE: Added expectation that employees must work a minimum number of hours per year in order to continue to have access to free training through the MyBrewster continuing education system. Also, incorporated language from OEMS administrative requirement 2-212 re: continuing education standards. |
|
| 02-01-24 | NEW: With implementation of Chapter 23 of the Acts of 2002, aka "Nero's Law, absent a waiver, EMS agencies are required to assess, treat and transport police K9s injured in the line of duty. This SOP was added to the "Treatment Protocol" Section to summarize the procedure which is also part of Statewide Treatment Protocols. |
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| 02-07-24 | CLARIFICATION: Team members assigned to the Communications Section and Scheduling have increased access within TraumaSoft to reassign personnel or assign certain payroll codes due to their work duties and responsibilities. A reminder was added that all requests for time off, schedule changes, or overtime must still be requested and approved per established policy prior to entering in the system. |
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| 03-01-24 | UPDATE: Instead of accruing weekly, vacation allotment for eligible team members will be provided annually on the employee's anniversary date. Team members may carry over the equivalent of their annual allotment to the following year, and may cash out up to one week of vacation time twice per year. |
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| 03-01-24 | UPDATE: Increases the number of sick hours that can be earned per year from 40/48 to 55; eliminates reference to sick time verification forms. |
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| 04-04-24 | Attendance, Punctuality & Shift Work
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UPDATE: Added Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) to definition of "dedicated vehicle" and types of units that may require mandatory holdover to maintain minimum staffing levels. UPDATE: Added reference to MIH units to types of units that may require mandatory holdover to maintain minimum staffing. |
| 04-22-24 | Re-ISSUE: in accordance with Section 6 of the OEMS Statewide Treatment Protocols, licensed services must have a written policy describing which Medical Control options have been approved by the service medical director. This SOP is reissued to coincide with protocol version 2024.1 which takes effect this date. |
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| 04-29-24 | UPDATE: the "Adjustments / Hardship" Section is updated to clarify circumstances and to what extent billing department team lead and billing department manager may authorize reduction of a patient's outstanding balance. "Bad Debt / Collection" section updated to describe aging report process on outstanding balances. |
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| 04-29-24 | UPDATE: Policy is updated to include the phone number and address of where complaints may be filed both internally and externally, and to reiterate that anyone in a supervisory capacity that witnesses or otherwise becomes aware of a sexual harassment complaint has a duty to report such to Human Resources. |
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| 06-25-24 | UPDATE: The "Law Enforcement" Section is updated to reflect new Office for Civil Rights rule which tightens conditions under which HIPAA- covered entities can disclose protected health information to law enforcement agencies pursuant to an "administrative request" In the past, a request on agency letterhead would suffice, but now can be only "when required by law" (eg subpoena, summons, warrant, etc.) 2024-08503.pdf (govinfo.gov) |
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| 07-07-24 | UPDATE: If an employee forgets to punch in and/or out, they must notify their Field Supervisor immediately. |
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| 08-01-24 | NEW: Added to the "Paid Time Off / Leave of Absence" section. The Voluntary Leave Sharing Program allows for the transfer of accrued sick or vacation time from one employee to another who needs such leave because of a qualifying health condition affecting the employee or immediate family member and would otherwise be unpaid. |
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| 08-12-24 | UPDATE: Removed reference to the previously used orange safety belt known as the "Brewster Belt" or additional chest strap for patients that are potential flight risk as OEMS deems them unapproved restraint devices. Any restraint shall be in accordance with Statewide Treatment Protocol. |
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| 08-13-24 |
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Brockton Hospital REOPENS [No Cath. Lab; maternity, pediatrics behavioral health services] |
| 08-31-24 |
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Carney Hospital CLOSED |
| 08-31-24 | UPDATED: Quincy EMS units to receive primary on-line medical control from St. Elizabeth Medical Center. |
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| 08-31-24 | UPDATED: Reference to Carney Hospital removed |
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| 08-31-24 | Updated: Reference to Carney Hospital for drug restocking is removed. |
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| 09-17-24 | NEW: Defines process for 911 shift bids, ensuring a structured, fair, and consistent approach to shift allocation for 911 operations |
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| 09-17-24 | NEW: Defines the process for schedule changes and bids for IFT units. |
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| 10-01-24 | UPDATE: Previous version was "Shift Bids and Overtime Distribution"- with issuance of separate "Shift Bids" SOP, the Overtime Distribution portion is now a stand-alone SOP |
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| 10-01-24 | NEW: outlines the expectations and minimum hourly work requirements for per diem employees. |
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| 10-01-24 | UPDATE: Clarified loading and unloading procedure to include that power should be OFF in electric wheelchairs when on the lift, chair car drivers should not ride on the lift with clients, and the ramp should not be left in extended position when the vehicle is unattended. |
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| 10-23-24 | NEW: added to "Special Operations and Major Events" Section- SOP details process in which special event details are to be recorded to ensure proper scheduling and dispatching. |
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| 10-24-24 | UPDATE: Clarified the ACA Measurement periods for determining benefit eligible team members |
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| 10-24-24 | Billing Compliance Program, Medical Records Request Process, Media & Public Contacts, Patient Confidentiality, Remote Location Billing Program |
CLARIFICATION: Minor "housekeeping" clarification on several SOPs- wherever there was reference to HIPAA, added that HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act) would also apply. Since only a minor clerical change, effective date of SOPs was not updated.
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| 10-31-24 | UPDATE: MA OEMS issued an emergency update to Protocol A.1 of the Statewide Treatment Protocols (Interfacility Transfers) creating a medical director option to permit an Advanced EMT (AEMT) on an IFT unit to apply a cardiac monitor and transmit such information. "Medical Director Options" is updated to reflect the AHMD approval of this option by properly trained AEMT team members. |
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| 10-31-24 | Advanced Life Support Staffing; ALS Interfacility Transfers; Interfacility Transport Guidelines |
UPDATE: In addition to Paramedic, these SOPs were updated to include Advanced EMT (AEMT) when referencing Advanced Life Support. |
| 12-11-24 | UPDATE: Minor language updates to types of equipment, and reminder that while spare units should be ready for deployment, team members should still perform vehicle and equipment check similar to beginning of shift, and also ensure that the vehicle they are swapping out of is left in clean condition. |
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| 12-27-24 | Radio Procedures and Out of Chute Times
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MERGE / UPDATE: Merges the previous separate "Radio Procedures" and "Out of Chute Times" into a single document. Adds a reminder to the policy statement that calls for service should be dispatched as expeditiously as possible based on available resources, call volume, and scheduled pick-up time and crews should be notified of any known or suspected hazards on scene. Field crews must initiate a response in a timely manner (<60 seconds for emergent calls, < 90 seconds for non-emergent), and notify the dispatcher of any delays. Units should not be shown "en route" in CAD until they repeat the address and are physically in the vehicle responding to the call. |
| 01-15-25 | UPDATE: Minimum Par Level for City of Quincy ALS Fentanyl increased from 400 mcg to 500mcg. |
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| 01-21-25 | CLARIFICATION: Previous version stated an EMT should only operate the ambulance under non-emergency and non-patient loaded circumstances for the first 30-days (240 worked hours) of employment. Clarified that this is to the "extent reasonably possible". |
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| 01-21-25 | CLARIFICATION: Brewster Ambulance Service takes the safe operation of our vehicles very seriously. Company policy has always held that employees found to be responsible for a preventable crash are subject to wide range of disciplinary action. Reiterated that the employee may be suspended from duty for multiple shifts up to 24 hours for a first offense, all the way up to immediate termination depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. |
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| 02-28-25 | In accordance with OEMS requirements, established a minimum experience level of at least 6 months before a Paramedic should be considered to staff a Paramedic/Advanced or Paramedic/Basic configuration. |
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| 02-28-25 | In accordance with OEMS requirements, established a minimum experience level of at least 4 months before an EMT should be paired with an ATS or another EMT with less than 4 months experience to staff an ambulance. |
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| 03-26-25 | CLARIFICATION: Policy itself has not changed; made some minor edits to clarify terminology and distinction between one-time "shift trades" and requests for schedule swaps, which require prior Scheduling Department approval. |
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| 04-21-25 | NEW: Added new SOP to the "Equipment & Facilities" Section regarding care and use of the Tablet Computer used for documenting ePCR reports, including that the four digit asset number must be included as part of the daily vehicle checkout form. Tablet must remain in its protective case with screen protector and carrying strap to protect from damage. |