DHEC to train EMTs to test patients for COVID-19.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control has developed a statewide training program to allow EMTs and paramedics to test patients for COVID-19.

DHEC piloted the program in Richland County in April, providing the first responders with guidance on how to collect COVID-19 specimens, and is now rolling the program out across South Carolina.

Over 200 EMTs and paramedics have been trained in specimen collection so far, according to a news release from the agency.

South Carolina has 268 emergency medical services agencies and 11,272 emergency personnel, which include EMTs, paramedics and other first responders.

Earlier this month, DHEC also began allowing EMTs to temporarily serve as nurse aides at nursing homes to meet residents' needs for personal hygiene...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT