Bringing the Hospital to the Scene: How a Surplus Truck Enabled Surgical Response in the Field

Derrick Hall shares how his non-profit agency, Greater Valley EMS, repurposed a coroner’s office pickup truck into a paramedic response vehicle. Derrick won a 2013 Chevy Silverado truck through a Municibid auction, attracted by the Stryker Power-LOAD stretcher system included, which they transferred to one of their ambulances. With ample storage for rescue equipment, the Chevy Silverado supports their ambulance crews on critical calls. 

A standout story involves using the truck to transport two surgeons and blood supplies directly to the scene, facilitating life-saving field care. While bringing the hospital to the scene is a rare event, Greater Valley EMS provided an outstanding positive outcome to the patient.

Derrick’s story highlights the resourcefulness of non-profit EMS agencies, stretching budgets through smart equipment acquisitions. It underscores the dedication of emergency responders constantly seeking innovations to better serve their communities. Derrick shares insights into managing a combination career/volunteer service and the need for public support.

About the Guest:

Derrick Hall is the Executive Director of Greater Valley Emergency Medical Services, a non-profit agency providing advanced and basic life support in northern Pennsylvania and western New York. A paramedic himself, Derrick oversees the agency's emergency medical operations, technical rescue team, scuba unit, and more.

Key Takeaways:  

• Greater Valley EMS repurposed a 2013 Chevy Silverado from a coroner's office truck into a versatile response vehicle after winning it on Municibid.
• It has supported critical incidents like transporting surgeons and blood to a serious crash scene for life-saving field care.
• The truck included a Stryker Power-LOAD stretcher system, allowing safer patient loading/unloading for EMS crews.
• You don’t have to be on the front line to support Greater Valley EMS and other EMS agencies in your community. Volunteers can help with administration, financial, call center, and other behind the scenes work necessary for EMS agencies to be there when you need help.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Greater Valley EMS and how to become a volunteer: https://www.gvems.com 
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/ 

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