BASICS Dorset

BASICS doctors are trained in Advanced Life Support, Paediatric Life Support, Trauma Life Support and caring for critically-ill patients. As medical consultants they have years of experience leading hospital Resus Teams. They can perform life-saving surgery (including heart surgery) out in the field. Working together with ambulance crews out in the community they can maximise a casualty's chance of survival before reaching the hospital.

As hospital consultants and GPs, BASICS medics are experienced in diagnosing life-threatening illness and injury. They often carry ultrasound scanners, blood analysers and other equipment usually only found in the Emergency Department. Their knowledge of local medical services means they can decide on the best treatment plan very early in the patient's journey. This is vital when facing long journeys to hospital or when dealing with several patients at once.

BASICS doctors are licensed to carry stronger drugs than those available to ambulance crews. They can sedate patients suffering seizures or brain injuries to protect them from harm. Strong painkillers can be used to relieving suffering or set broken bones before the journey to hospital. They carry advanced medicines used to treat life-threatening heart problems. They are also able to perform field surgery to repair injured lungs, damaged hearts, stem severe bleeding or amputate limbs if needed.

Our medics have direct radio contact with Ambulance Controller. They are notified directly of all High Priority 999 calls in the area. They are trained Emergency Response Drivers and have blue-lights fitted to their cars. Being located within the community means most patients can be reached in a matter of minutes. BASICS doctors can be available 24-hours a day in all weathers. Many doctors in rural areas have off-road and snow capable vehicles. 

BASICS nationally offers specialist training for anyone interested or working in the pre-hospital medical environment. The national Pre-Hospital Care Course prepares clinicians to deliver lifesaving care out in the community. Courses are also available for those who due to the nature of their work have to provide life-saving emergency care. BASICS Dorset also run regular education sessions for local ambulance crews, hospital staff and paramedic students.

In the event of an incident with many casualties, BASICS doctors can be activated as Medical Advisers to directly support the Ambulance Service Major Incident Plan. Such disasters could by multi-vehicle crashes, large fires, air disasters, industrial accidents, terrorism or accidents involving the release of hazardous materials. Medical Advisers work at the scene to ensure that patients receive treatment and transport to hospital as quickly as their injuries warrant.