At baseline, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a complex and advanced life support therapy, but when patient transport is factored into the equation, the process can become particularly daunting. ECMO transport requires a specialized team, custom equipment, adapted vehicles or planes, and intricate coordination. Yet, ECMO transport isn’t something that can be avoided–it’s a routine necessity for many ECMO patients. This is where Innovative ECMO Concepts (IEC) steps in, offering a comprehensive, end-to-end solution that extends naturally to ECMO transport.

Why: The Critical Need for Specialized ECMO Transport

ECMO transport is a highly specialized offering that demands expertise, experience, and meticulous planning. As one of the only non-hospital and non-military ECMO transport teams providing comprehensive services with physician oversight, IEC is uniquely positioned to meet this critical need. Hospitals should consider IEC Transport services when:

• A neonatal, pediatric, or adult ECMO patient requires air or ground transport
• A current hospital patient requires ECMO support but the facility lacks the required equipment or personnel to support the patient
• There is a need for inter-hospital transfer of a patient already supported with ECMO
• The hospital wants to ensure safe, efficient transport for ECMO patients over long distances or internationally

What: Comprehensive ECMO Transport Services

IEC offers a full spectrum of ECMO transport services, including:

• Transport of patients already on ECMO support
• On-site ECMO cannulation assistance
• A patient referral system to help place ECMO patients in appropriate facilities
• ECMO transport training for healthcare professionals
• Development of transport program policies and procedures

Our goal is not just to move patients but to provide a seamless continuum of care from bedside to bedside.

Who: Expertise for All ECMO Patients

IEC’s transport services cater to a wide range of patients, from neonatal to adult ECMO patients. Our team consists of highly specialized ECMO experts, including critical care physicians, ECMO specialists, perfusionists, nurses, and respiratory therapists. Each team member undergoes rigorous training and has extensive experience in ECMO transport, ensuring the highest level of care for every patient.

Where: No Destination Too Far

IEC’s transport capabilities span a wide range of distances and scenarios. From local transfers within the same city or region to long-distance domestic transports, including international patient movements, IEC is equipped to handle ECMO transport needs regardless of the distance involved.

In collaboration with our CAMTS-accredited air carrier, Innovative ECMO Concepts can offer ground, rotary, and fixed-wing transport for any ECMO patient. Our team assesses each case individually to determine the most appropriate mode of transport, considering factors such as distance, patient stability, and urgency.

How: Transport-Specific Protocols for Unparalleled Safety

At IEC, we’ve developed a unique approach to ECMO transport. Our approach encompasses protocols, procedures, and checklists designed specifically for transport, coupled with the utilization of specialized equipment adapted for mobile use.

In addition, the team undergoes continuous training to stay current with the latest transport techniques, all while maintaining close communication with referring and receiving facilities to ensure smooth transitions. This specialized methodology allows for the successful handling of all modes of ECMO transport, minimizing risks and maximizing patient safety.

When: Round-the-Clock Availability

ECMO emergencies don’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. IEC’s transport services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Our rapid response team is always ready to mobilize, ensuring the quickest possible intervention for critical ECMO patients.

Building Future Capacity: ECMO Transport Training and Program Development

Beyond our direct transport services, we offer comprehensive ECMO transport training programs for healthcare professionals and assistance in developing transport program policies and procedures.

By sharing our expertise, we help healthcare facilities build their own capacity to handle ECMO transport, ensuring better outcomes for patients across the healthcare system.

Partnering with IEC provides access to unparalleled expertise, comprehensive services, and a commitment to excellence that ensures the best possible outcomes for ECMO patients. IEC stands ready to navigate the challenges of ECMO transport, allowing healthcare providers to focus on what matters most–saving lives and expanding access to this life-saving therapy.