Mutual Aid

Each component of the EMS system has its own methods for obtaining mutual aid. For example, the fire service depends on its mutual aid system to obtain additional medical uniformed EMTS. Hospitals initially go through their own suppliers or contact sister agencies. LAEMSA is available to back up these systems with its own mutual aid system drawing upon adjacent county resources, and the state EMSA. The local LAEMSA system is not well developed. Although LAEMSA has been participating in a regional EMS mutual aid planning effort, agreements have not been reached between participating counties (Orange County, San Luis Obispo County, Ventura County, and Santa Barbara County) for mobilization of and payment for use of these resources. However, Orange County's EMS Agency did make personnel and hospital beds available if needed. Methods and procedures for requesting, allocating, and directing medical mutual aid within the region have not been completely worked out or tested. Orange County San Onofre nuclear accident exercises have provided opportunities to practice together in the past but have been very limited in their scope. LAEMSA has worked closely with EMSA to establish a network for receiving mutual aid. This system is discussed in the following section.

Medical Care for the Injured

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