Mercy Flights and Jackson County Fire District 1 Join Forces to Improve Emergency Care

Source: Mercy Flights

Mercy Flights and Jackson County Fire District 1 have joined forces to equip both ground and air ambulances with ultrasound machines, enhancing emergency medical services. This purchase was made possible by a local grant from the Roundhouse Foundation in 2024.

A total of four ultrasound machines were acquired through grant funding and divided between the two organizations. Two machines will be installed on Jackson County Fire District 1's ground ambulances, while the other two will be added to Mercy Flights' aircraft fleet. These portable machines allow healthcare professionals to quickly assess injuries in a noninvasive way, using high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal body structures. This technique is often used to examine organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart without requiring surgery. Ultrasound is safe and painless, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing a range of medical conditions.

The two organizations are collaborating on an intensive eight-week training program, led by Dr. Alicia Bond, Medical Director for all Jackson County EMS agencies, and Mike Jarnagan, Mercy Flights Critical Care Flight RN. This training will cover both the technical operation of the ultrasound machines and their use in emergency situations. The ultrasound machines are expected to be fully operational by the end of 2024.

Alex Kelley, Mercy Flights Critical Care Flight Team RN, said, “This partnership showcases our commitment to providing advanced care and improving outcomes in the community. An ultrasound machine can provide critical information early on in an incident, leading to better patient outcomes.”

This partnership not only brings advanced medical tools to the region but also strengthens the local healthcare network, paving the way for better care and a healthier future for all residents.

Chief Hammond, Jackson County Fire District 1 Fire Chief states, “We are excited to have this new technology. While ultrasound has existed in the hospital setting for years, now we can bring it to the patient in the field giving our Paramedics an additional tool to perform assessments. This is another partnership between Jackson County Fire District 1 and Mercy Flights that enhances our already close working relationship.”\

For more information about Mercy Flights, please visit mercyflights.com, or to learn more about Jackson County Fire District 1, visit rogueriverfd.com.