Developing Regional STEMI Systems of Care: A Review of the Evidence and the Role of the Flex Program (Policy Brief #23)

Authors

John A. Gale MS, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow

Document Type

Policy Brief

Publication Date

10-2011

Keywords

MRHRC, rural, EMS, emergency medical services, Flex, USM Aging Initiative, Health and Wellness

Abstract

This policy brief summarizes the evidence for regional systems of care for patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). These systems of care have both a quality improvement and a systems development focus and provide a valuable opportunity for State Flex Programs to engage CAHs and EMS in rationalizing and improving STEMI care for rural residents, particularly with respect to MBQIP Phase 2 Measures.

Key Findings:

• CAHs and rural EMS agencies play an important role in STEMI systems of care.
• EMS providers use pre-hospital ECGs and transport protocols to ensure timely reperfusion.
• CAHs provide fibrinolytic therapy and post-reperfusion followup care including cardiac rehabilitation.
• State Flex Programs can facilitate involvement of CAHs and EMS agencies in STEMI systems of care.

Funding Organization

Federal Office of Rural Health Policy

Grant Number

U27RH01080

Recommended Citation

Gale, J. A. (2011). Developing regional STEMI systems of care: A review of the evidence and the role of the Flex program. (Briefing Paper No. 29). Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, Flex Monitoring Team.