Being committed to your health and safety, the BCAA has taken extra precautions to ensure the safety of our providers and patients. In these times of uncertainty and fear, the BCAA has added a temporary unit, dedicated for response to potential or confirmed cases of the Covid-19 Virus. Dubbed Unit 19, this unit features many safety features to decrease the chances of contamination of the EMS crew and cross contamination between patients. Pictured below, you can see the added layers of protection.
In addition to the protections added by using Unit 19, all of our EMS providers are equipped with N95 masks that have been 'fit tested' to ensure adequate respiratory protection. We have also added isolation coveralls, faceshields, and goggles to all units to also increase provider safety. Also, as a precaution, all patients transported by the BCAA will be provided with a procedure mask to help contain some of the aerosolyzed particles from the respiratory process. We have also banned all non-essential riders from the EMS units. This means that no one, with the exception of medical power of attorneys, parent or legal guardian, or an interpreter, are permitted to ride to the destination with the patient. This has been done as an effort to decrease exposure to our providers and the citizens we serve.
Be sure to use reliable sources for information about the Coronavirus. Do not rely on word of mouth, rumors, or unverified sources for your information.
WV Department of Health & Human Resources
