Clinical Workgroups
ED Bypass & False Activation
The ED Bypass and False Activation Workgroup is dedicated to optimizing the use of emergency department resources and ensuring accurate activation of heart attack protocols. This combined workgroup reviews data to establish and promote standardized ED Bypass protocols, reducing time to reperfusion therapy by enabling direct transport to PCI-capable hospitals. Simultaneously, the workgroup aims to minimize false activations by improving diagnostic accuracy, thus ensuring appropriate use of medical resources. By developing educational materials and clear guidelines, the workgroup seeks to enhance the efficiency and quality of patient care.
Champions:
Peter O'Brien, MD (Centra) and Michael Kontos, MD (VCU)
Shock
The SHOCK Workgroup is focused on improving the management and outcomes of patients experiencing cardiogenic shock. By analyzing data and creating educational resources, this workgroup aims to establish guidelines for early identification and intervention. The workgroup promotes the use of advanced hemodynamic support and monitors the effectiveness of these interventions in clinical practice.
Champions:
Dr. Chalak Berzingi (Carilion) and Dr. Mark Joseph (Carilion)
PE Response Team (RT)
The PE Response Team Workgroup focuses on improving the response to pulmonary embolisms (PE) in heart attack patients. This workgroup reviews data, develops support tools, and creates best practice guidelines for PE Response Teams. The goal is to facilitate rapid identification and treatment of PE, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and improving patient outcomes.
Champions:
Michael Kelley, MD (Carilion) and Jessica Moutjoy (Mary Washington)
ECG Education
The ECG Education Workgroup aims to enhance the early detection and treatment of heart attacks through improved ECG interpretation. This workgroup reviews current training programs, identifies gaps, and develops comprehensive educational modules for healthcare providers including EMS personnel. By promoting ECG education, the workgroup seeks to improve the accuracy of heart attack diagnosis and treatment.
Champions:
Bob Page (VA Educator) & Sheree Emore (Carilion)
Thrombolytics
The Thrombolytics Workgroup is dedicated to enhancing the use of thrombolytic therapy in treating heart attacks. This workgroup focuses on reviewing data, developing educational materials, and establishing standardized protocols to ensure the timely and effective administration of thrombolytics. The goal is to improve patient outcomes by promoting best practices and reducing delays in treatment.
Champions:
John Patterson, MD (HCA), Michael Kontos, MD (VCU) and Richard Konstance, MD (HCA)