A new Columbus medic unit is specifically equipped to handle obese patients.
Officials say there are currently rare times that first responders are not equipped to handle bariatric residents.
The new medic unit is fitted with specialized equipment to allow for ramps and a pulley system to assist in transporting the bariatric patient safely.
“The population of people that we serve is getting heavier,” said Special Operations Deputy Chief Jim Davis. "Our current system can handle up to 650 pounds but the circumference of a patient is also an issue. We are doing the patient and our staff a disservice when we are not prepared for the larger residents of the community.”
The medic was purchased with a grant from the Central Ohio Trauma System. It will also be available for use in communities surrounding Columbus when needed.
New Columbus Medic Equipped To Handle Increasingly Obese Population
The Columbus Division of Fire is adding a new medic to its fleet to deal with a growing problem.
