New Hanover Special Event Medicine

Staffed by two paramedics, this is the traditional method used for medical coverage of a sporting or mass gathering event. An ambulance is recommended for events with more than 500 participants. Although the ambulance has limited access to patients for some venues, it supports our specialty teams. 

The New Hanover EMS-Bicycle Emergency Response Team (B.E.R.T.) uses specially trained paramedics to reach patients when ambulance access is limited. Because of their mobility, the team is able to navigate through large crowds or off road areas with ease. BERT is an ideal asset for events such as the Azalea Festival, Riverfest and marathons.

Staffed by a single paramedic, the Quick Response Vehicle (QRV) augments the ambulance and/or BERT. The QRV is a sport utility-style vehicle that adds versatility to our response capabilities.The QRV is perfect for sporting events such as baseball or soccer games. A QRV is recommended for your 5K with less than 500 participants.

Medical carts (golf carts) are staffed by a single or dual paramedic. Often used as a transport arm of BERT, these vehicles are outfitted with stretchers, thus the ability to safely move patients out of a crowd to a designated triage/ transport site. They are also used to transport the team’s bicycles, as the BERT members provide continuous care to the patient during transport and can easily transport athletes off playing fields without damaging the field. They are also a great resource at events with wooded trails and uneven terrain as well as gated events including festivals and outdoor concerts.