Frequently Asked Questions

 

       What is the mission of the USA Rescue Squad (USARS)?  The mission of the University Rescue Squad is to provide professional, first-response Emergency Medical Services to the main campus of the University of South Alabama, free of charge.

       Who will provide these emergency medical services? All services will be provided by trained and certified USA student volunteers.

       Is this LEGAL? Absolutely. The two people I consulted before beginning this project were the University Attorney and the Director of Risk Management. Both approved this project and helped formulate the plan so that it would all be legal.

       What is the legal definition of USA Rescue? The USA Rescue Squad will operate as one of the “Volunteer rescue squads that are members of the ‘Alabama Association of Rescue Squads, Inc.,’ not offering ALS services, and not voluntarily licensed as a BLS transport service.” (Alabama State Code 420-2-1-.01)

       Is the Rescue Squad accredited? Yes. USARS is fully accredited by the Alabama Association of Rescue Squads, as of November 12, 2005, and thus authorized to provide Emergency Medical Services in the State of Alabama. As an AARS member, USARS and its members are fully protected under the Good Samaritan Law of Alabama as “member[s] of any organized rescue squad…[who] render first aid or emergency care at the scene of an accident, casualty, or disaster…” (Alabama State Code 6-5-332 (a)).

       Has anything like this ever been done before? Yes, all over the country. The National Collegiate EMS Foundation www.ncemsf.org lists over 150 student-run Rescue Squads and Emergency Medical Services at schools like University of Mississippi, Emory, and Florida State. Some schools even offer ambulance transport of emergency patients—all performed completely by students.

       What type of training will rescuers have? All Crew Chiefs will be either certified medical First Responders (CFR’s/FR’s) or licensed Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). CFRs fill the level between First Aid and EMTs, and can perform a basic patient assessment, including vital signs, administer oxygen, and use an AED. Other members assisting with event coverage will have a minimum of CPR and First Aid training.

       Who is the medical director for USARS? Dr. Thomasina Sharpe, Director of the Student Health Center.