ETMC EMS Debuts New Bicycle Response Team at Fair

TYLER — East Texas Medical Center EMS will debut its new bicycle response team this week at the East Texas State Fair in Tyler. Officials say ETMC EMS bicycle response teams include 12 experienced paramedics and EMTs who meet certain physical fitness standards, possess superior cycling skills, have a positive history with ETMC EMS, and have completed training to ensure safe and efficient operations.

“More and more EMS providers are adding bicycle medics for events, such as the fair, for faster response times through traffic and crowds,” said Neal Franklin, ETMC EMS general manager. “The cyclist has the ability to move around obstacles, utilize sidewalks and navigate around people to quickly get to the injured or sick patient. The bicycle teams will be utilized at special events, such as concerts, races, parades and festivals, and also can be contracted for private events. Bike teams can begin triage and treatment as an ambulance responds to provide transport.”