American Medical Response in Las Vegas has had to devise a double-wide ambulance to handle its ever-increasing number of double-wide patients. The $250,000 vehicle, which looks no different to the casual observer observing its exterior, is equipped with an extra-wide gurney and a winch and ramp that can tolerate 1,600 pounds. We’re hoping the 1,600 pounds will be divided among two or more people at a time and include a couple of medical technicians because otherwise we’re scared.
A company official said that in the last six months, AMR has handled 75 calls involving patients that weighed more than 600 pounds. He said moving someone that large in a regular ambulance poses safety problems for the patient – and for paramedics and ambulance crew members.
