Public Education

A hospital proposing to establish an SEF shall develop and implement a public education plan that, at a minimum, shall include: (A) written notification to ambulance services and regional councils, of the services to be provided at the SEF and a description of the type of ambulance transport that is appropriate for the SEF; (B) a public information campaign about the services available at the SEF, modifications in preexisting services, and the circumstances under which it is appropriate to call “911”; (C) the creation of a community network for the early and ongoing exchange of information regarding emergency services (for example, a hospital may establish a community advisory committee composed of representatives of ambulance services, local police and fire departments, public officials and other community members to assist in the development of an effective education campaign for all cities and towns in the hospital’s service area); (D) a list of meetings to be held with public officials and the affected parties listed in 105 CMR 130.823; (E) a clear and understandable description of the services available at the SEF and any changes in services previously provided at the SEF site; a plan for the dissemination of the description of services at the hospital, providing copies to the affected parties listed in 105 CMR 130.823 and including it in a public information campaign using local print and electronic media; (F) a list of alternative facilities that provide emergency services to residents of the hospital’s service area; (G) a plan to provide accurate and appropriate road signage in the hospital’s service area; (H) notice of the date when the SEF will commence operations; and (I) public information and education initiatives that address public safety issues and prevention including, but not limited to, operation of motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, seat belt awareness, helmet use, recognition of the symptoms of heart attack, stroke and pediatric illnesses.