Brandeis Emergency Medical Corps (BEMCo)

Training and Equipment

Members of the corps are all Massachusetts-certified emergency medical technician (EMTs). The minimum training for an EMT required by the National Emergency Medical Services involves participation and documentation of field experience, hospital/clinical experience, and demonstrated competency in skills and EMS knowledge. 

In order to receive certification, the Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services requires the completion of the above criteria via an accredited EMS course and the successful completion of both a National Registry of EMTs psychomotor (practical) exam and cognitive exam. 

BEMCo provides additional continuing education to prepare members to handle the kinds of emergencies that are common on campus and to maintain skill and knowledge proficiency. These continuing education courses cover a wide range of emergencies including but not limited to:

  • Basic Skills Review and Operations
  • Intoxications & Overdose
  • Vulnerable Populations
  • Altered Mental Status
  • MCIs and Triage
  • Morbidity and Mortality

Active BEMCo members are required to attend a minimum of six continuing education classes each semester. Classes cover a wide range of emergency medical services, include simulated call scenarios, and are approved for credit by the Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS).

For more information contact the Training Officer.

Equipment

BEMCo vehicles

BEMCo operates two Class V ambulances: a 2018 Chevrolet Suburban and a 2015 Ford Explorer. These vehicles are equipped with full emergency vehicle lighting and sirens. They function as Primary and Supervisor emergency medical response vehicles, respectively. The BEMCo ambulances carry basic life support (BLS) equipment in excess with the regulations outlined for Class V ambulances in the state of Massachusetts. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Burn kits

  • Defibrillators

  • Electric suction and airway management equipment

  • Extrication equipment

  • Infection control equipment

  • Medications

    • Albuterol

    • Aspirin

    • Epinephrine

    • Oral Glucose

    • Glucagon

    • Naloxone (Narcan)

    • Oxygen

  • Obstetrics supplies

  • Spinal immobilization devices

  • Splinting devices

If a patient requires additional advanced life support care, BEMCo will request an ambulance from an outside agency for transport to a local hospital or trauma center as neither of the BEMCo ambulances transport patients, as per state regulations.