Private Ambulance Company Allegiance Mobile Health Faces Criticism After Patient’s Death
A private ambulance company, Allegiance Mobile Health, is under scrutiny following the death of a patient in Pflugerville. According to an autopsy report obtained by the American-Statesman, improper medical treatment by a paramedic from the company led to the patient’s demise. The official cause of death was listed as improper emergency medical therapy, resulting in death.
The 42-year-old man had received treatment after falling at home and hitting his head. However, the report states that the man was subjected to unnecessary medical procedures, including a cricothyroidotomy, which involves making an incision to open an airway. The pathologist who conducted the autopsy stated that there was no indication for such a procedure, and strict protocols were not followed.
The report highlights a series of missteps and improper protocols that culminated in the unsuccessful attempt at a cricothyroidotomy. It further states that the patient’s death was not caused by a previous heart condition or medication administered at the scene. Instead, it attributes the death to the failure to establish an airway after the patient received midazolam intranasally, a nerve-blocking agent that could have saved his life if an airway had been established.
Allegiance Mobile Health, the private ambulance company involved, has not responded to requests for comment. Concerns about the quality of care provided by Allegiance have prompted the Pflugerville City Council to enter into an agreement with the City of Austin for the oversight of emergency medical services.
Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2, also known as the Pflugerville Fire Department, has also expressed concerns about the care provided by Allegiance medics. The department claims that the death of the patient in January was a result of negligence. Allegiance representatives reportedly stated that the medic involved in the incident would be fired, and the Texas Department of State Health Services suspended their medical license.
The agreement between Pflugerville and Austin will see an Austin emergency medical services commander overseeing Allegiance’s operations in the city. This move comes a year after Pflugerville entered into a contract with Allegiance to provide ambulance and emergency medical services. The city has experienced ongoing challenges in securing reliable ambulance services, with changes in providers and concerns about response times.
As the investigation continues, Pflugerville officials aim to prioritize the safety and well-being of residents by ensuring the highest level of care. The supervision provided by the City of Austin aims to address concerns about the quality of care offered by Allegiance.
In conclusion, the improper medical treatment by a paramedic from Allegiance Mobile Health has led to a patient’s death in Pflugerville. The lack of adherence to protocols and unnecessary procedures have raised serious concerns about the company’s practices. The collaboration with the City of Austin aims to improve oversight and ensure the provision of high-quality emergency medical services to Pflugerville residents.
