Ascend Critical Care Review Chosen for First Responders

OTSEGO COUNTY—Otsego County announced on August 1 that the Ascend Critical Care Review online program from Air Methods, a leading medical service provider, has been selected to provide continuing education to its first responders.

Otsego County coordinates emergency medical services for over 58,000 residents across more than 1,000 square miles in Central New York. Since launching its ambulance service in November 2021, Otsego County EMS now provides 24/7 advanced life support services with a dedicated team of 16 full-time and 10 part-time paramedics.

“Ascend’s online programs will provide Otsego County first responders with the necessary education to meet our goal of providing the highest level of care and quality service to our residents,” said EMS Supervisor Dana Weygand. “We are grateful to have access to cutting-edge continuing education to ensure our paramedics have the knowledge they need to provide patients with the life-saving care they need and deserve.”

According to a press release, Otsego County first responders will receive access to Ascend’s online Critical Care Review courses, which enable clinicians to learn at their own pace while maintaining focus on the subject matter. The courses cover a wide range of topics, including airway management, cardiovascular care, trauma, high-risk transports, and in-depth discussions on neurological, obstetric, neonatal, and pediatric care.

“This is an addition to our training budget that we have implemented,” Weygand said. “It is the ongoing training that is required for each provider so that they can keep their certifications.”
The cost for the Ascend Critical Care Review online program is covered by the current budget, Weygand said.

“We are excited to partner with Otsego County and offer our online training programs to their first responders,” said Dr. Stephanie Queen, Air Methods senior vice president of clinical services. “Our online programs are designed to equip first responders with the latest skills and knowledge to help provide the best patient care during emergencies.”

Ascend’s in-person and online education programs provide pre-hospital and critical care clinicians with access to world-class educators, state-of-the-art tools, and cutting-edge technologies to help build their knowledge, enabling them to operate at the top of their licensure and fulfill continuing education requirements.