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PKS Council on Aging Meeting Minutes – December 2023

Written by

Cindy Schersching, PhD

in

The group discussion covered a variety of current topics on December 12, 2023. Here is a summary.

Jason Baker, Chief of PKS Fire & EMS

We had a special speaker: Jason Baker, PKS Fire/EMS Chief. Jason spoke to his experience and thoughts on how we might open a dialogue with Carteret Hospital.

This initiative is driven by the comments from our original survey in 2022 that the hospital did not adequately meet the needs of the community and the belief that a community hospital should give the community a voice.

Hospital Dialogue

Chief Baker’s talk suggests (to me) that we may be able to open a dialogue with Carteret Hospital with:

  • A request for the funding and staffing of an emergency dialysis treatment center in addition to the current dialysis center.
  • An offer to create a workshop/series of workshops on what it means to be a “good patient.”
  • Better understanding of what is expected when we call 911 so paramedics can assess history and determine needed treatments.
  • This is particularly important in emergencies, but applies anytime we interface with medical professionals.

Chief Baker’s comments/observations

  • Dialysis is necessary if the body retains too much or has too little potassium; these conditions require emergency treatment.
  • A recent protocol change may divert some dialysis patients on ambulances to CarolinaEast if dialysis may be required during their stay.
  • If Carteret General had these capabilities, an ambulance wouldn’t be taken out of service for transport to New Bern.
  • Carteret’s facility has a dialysis center, but emergency dialysis patients are sent to the nearest facility (New Bern); only inpatients use the in-house center.
  • When a patient is sent to New Bern by ambulance, that vehicle is out of service for several hours—at least twice every six months—leaving PKS vulnerable.
  • For heart catheter needs, EMS can call helicopter transport to Wilmington or Greenville trauma centers; no ambulance is taken out of the area.
  • Emergency-room dialysis equipment is expensive; there are no known plans to invest in it.

Medical Advocate at the Hospital

Having an advocate with you at the hospital, especially in an emergency, is highly recommended. Ideally this is a family member or someone who knows your condition and medications.

The advocate should have a phone and serve as a second set of ears to hear what the doctor says.

  • Help establish a routine at home for taking the right medication at the right times and reiterate follow-up details.
  • Be free to question the doctor on your behalf.
  • Carry legal documents stating your wishes, or entrust them to your advocate.

Be very clear on the reasons for the emergency call. Describe symptoms and what you were doing prior to dialing 911.

Medication preparation

You will be asked about medication names, dosages, and frequencies. Timely, correct medication information impacts treatment success.

  • List allergies and related medications with frequency.
  • Report hypertension even if controlled; note your blood pressure medication.
  • Report diabetes and medications.
  • Stroke/heart attack outcomes are time-sensitive; PKS leadership is confident in local ER response.
  • Don’t hand EMS a bag of medicines—keep a current list with names, dosages, and frequencies.

The PKS EMS team is highly trained and engaged in ongoing education. Their talent and responsiveness provide confidence throughout the community.

Agenda

Presentation Forums

Mike: Should we do another? What topics should we pursue? When? Who do we ask? Can we schedule 3–4 topics for 2024?

Home and Medical Service Providers List

Creating a list of outstanding home service providers and medical personnel was a central commitment. Let’s continue to grow the list and include feedback from anyone who has used it.

  • Some of you were given folders with blank forms for you/your neighbors. Please bring the completed forms (and folders) to this meeting.
  • No personal questions are asked; names won’t be printed; a form isn’t required if you can share the info clearly.

Carteret Hospital

Establishing a relationship with Carteret Hospital: a community hospital should give the community a voice. To build on the conversation, can we answer these questions?

  • Which physician specialties are missing or underrepresented?
  • How many physicians of those specialties are in the area now, and how many are needed?
  • Follow EMS lead: Chief Jason Baker and team can suggest ways to improve ER care quality.

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