TETAF Honors EMS Professionals
Ready Today, Preparing for Tomorrow.
The theme for this year's EMS Week is, "Ready Today, Preparing for Tomorrow." That theme was selected before the COVID-19 pandemic but it certainly holds greater meaning now as EMS professionals and many others navigate how best to respond during this unprecedented time.
On behalf of the TETAF Board of Directors and TETAF staff, we thank you for serving on the frontlines. We know this year adds greater demands as you respond to needs during the COVID-19 crisis along with other emergency calls.
We hope all of you stay well and stay safe.
During EMS week we recognize the dedication, and the commitment of EMS professionals across the State of Texas and beyond. You are the day-to -day heroes on the “front-line” of life saving medicines and procedures that help to keep our communities safe, and healthy. EMS week reminds us of the brave women, and men who go to work every day with little concern for themselves. Together with public safety, and public health you are a vital link in the chain of survival. Having to adapt to ever changing circumstances, you put your life on the line to provide high quality emergency care. During the outbreak of COVID-19 EMS professionals have proven again, and again the vital role you have in protecting the residents of Texas. Let us take time during this celebration to recognize Texas EMS professionals and remember the sacrifices you and your families have and continue to make. Texas is “EMS Strong!”
**EMS TRANSPORTING GUIDANCE FOR COVID PATIENTS**
Guidance document from DSHS regarding EMS Transporting Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 Patients
EMS should assume each patient may be COVID-19 positive. EMS clinicians should exercise appropriate precautions when responding to any patient with signs or symptoms of a respiratory infection. Initial assessment should begin from a distance of at least 6 feet from the patient, if possible.
EMS Transporting Patients Flowchart - V3.1 
RAC-G is building a roster of volunteers from our retired medical community. Should the need arise we want to be ready and we thank you in advance for your willingness to serve
Hospitals and healthcare professionals should follow their normal process of trying to locate emergency medical supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other healthcare resources...
Read more HERE
The attached guidance form (which we are following) explains some of the reasoning why using the EMTF Mobile Medical Unit for an HCID/Pandemic event is not recommended...
Read more HERE
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is working closely with CDC in monitoring the developing outbreak.
Texas Division of Emergency Management, and all state agencies continue their ongoing preparations so that all of state government is working together to limit the spread of the virus and protect Texans. The immediate risk to most Texans remains low.