What is required of facilities regarding emergency medical services for residents?

The requirement for facilities to have a written plan for arranging both emergency transportation and care is essential to ensure that residents receive timely and appropriate medical attention during emergencies. This written plan serves as a guideline for staff members, outlining procedures to follow when an emergency arises. It emphasizes the importance of having protocols in place to facilitate the swift transportation of residents to medical facilities and ensuring that adequate care is provided until emergency services arrive.

Having a plan in writing increases accountability and efficiency during critical situations, as it provides clarity on roles, responsibilities, and available resources. Such a plan may include details on how to contact emergency services, the preferred transportation methods, necessary information to relay to first responders, and ensuring that residents' medical histories and emergency contacts are readily accessible.

Other options, although they may address aspects of emergency care, do not cover the comprehensive approach needed for emergency preparedness. For example, providing transportation to hospitals only or employing a full-time emergency medical technician may not encompass the full scope of emergency care required. Onsite medical care, while beneficial, also does not replace the need for established emergency plans that guide staff actions in various medical emergencies.