R426-10-1000. Capabilities of Medical Communications

  (1) A licensed air ambulance provider shall have a communications network available consisting of reliable equipment designed to afford clear communications related to the number and condition of patients among all stakeholders within the system.

  (2) The communication center shall demonstrate and maintain voice communications linkage with the radios and other allowable communication devices used in the air ambulance for the declared service area.

  (3) Licensed air ambulance providers shall have two-way communications equipment available that allows for or has the following:

  (a) Real-time patient tracking that shall be maintained and documented every 15 minutes including the time the air ambulance returns to service following transport.

  (b) Appropriate wireless communications capabilities with dispatch centers, local first responders, to include fire, EMS, and law enforcement.

  (c) Communications with medical referral and receiving facilities to exchange patient information and consult with medical control that shall be capable of communications exclusive of the air traffic control system.

  (d) A dedicated telephone number for the air ambulance service dispatch center.

  (4) The licensed air ambulance provider base station or communications network shall be manned during all phases of patient treatment and transport.

  (5) An emergency plan for communications during power outages and in disaster situations shall be established.

  (6) A policy for delineating methods for maintaining medical communications during power outages and in disaster situations.