Special Edition: Weekly News from the Columbus Medical Association and Affiliates

May 24, 2024

In this issue, we are celebrating COTS and all its accomplishments!

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How COTS Modernized Triage Systems for Mass Casualty Events in Ohio

Discover the dedicated efforts of Columbus Medical Association Affiliate, COTS, in preparing for mass casualty events, and ensuring our safety at major local gatherings. In response to rising mass violence, COTS helped modernized the triage system, shifting to the efficient SALT method.

Despite pandemic disruptions, they resumed efforts, involving multi-disciplinary teams across Ohio. Their proactive work, endorsed by prestigious organizations, enhances community health and safety. Check out their innovative strategies and behind-the-scenes heroics.

You can also earn more about how the CMAA embodies good health by visiting cmaaimpact.org/cots

CMA Advocacy Support: Health Impact Ohio, CMA Affiliate Supports CMA Advocacy

Long-time CMA affiliate Access HealthColumbus, DBA Health Impact Ohio is stepping into the role of supporting CMA Advocacy efforts, spearheaded by HIO President & CEO Carrie Baker.

In her time working for HIO and with CMA, Carrie has already been working with former CMA consultant Malcolm Porter and the CMA Public Policy Committee and other affiliates on CMA's public policy agenda.

Click the button below to learn more about Carrie and her plans for Advocacy at the CMA.

COTS Urges Congress to Support Improving Trauma Systems

COTS recently reached out to members of the United States Senate to support the 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill, specifically with funding to maintain a strong commitment to trauma system readiness by funding the Improving Trauma Systems and Emergency Care Act that grants programs at the fully authorized amount of $24 million for FY 2025.

Read more about how these grants could impact the Buckeye state.

Every year COTS hosts a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) training where community volunteers help act out a MCI at the hospital systems in Central Ohio.

This year, COTS will host its MCI training event on October 10, 2024, several RHEP Coalition partners will be participating in the 2024 Bolton Field Airport Full-Scale Exercise. The community exercise will allow participants to test mass casualty triage, medical surge, patient tracking, and family reunification. If you want to learn more about the training, check out this news article from last year explaining the process.

Recently COTS adopted the SALT triage method, which will be used this year. You can learn more about the SALT method in COTS' impact report story.

COTS in the News

ABC 6

Ohio hospitals ready for the total solar eclipse

As I conclude my five-year term as board president for COTS, I am proud of our many achievements. Highlights include:

Managing hospital bed availability daily.
Coordinating patient transfers across 36 counties.
Ensuring essential supplies and equipment were available.
Planning for emergency beds at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

Beyond the pandemic, COTS improved patient care with ED busyness software and managed emergencies effectively with the Healthcare Incident Liaison.

I am confident that under Dr. Erik Sribnick's leadership, COTS will continue to excel.

Please take a moment to read my full message detailing our journey and successes.

Read Full Message

A Message from the Incoming COTS President, Dr. Eric Sribnick

"I am equally honored to have the opportunity to serve COTS as we transition to expand our footprint in the regions we serve and help to provide Ohio with the best possible trauma and emergency care."

Dr. Eric Sribnick - Incoming COTS President

From our Endorsed Partner: Sedgwick

The Columbus Medical Association partners with Sedgwick because they help employers maximize their premium savings. Sedgwick analyzes each employer’s unique claim and premium history to find the highest level of savings in all available workers’ compensation programs.

Click below to learn more!

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