STAFF REPORT - CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/PUBLIC FINANCE AUTHORITY

The Fire Chief and City Manager recommend approving the purchase of a Power-Load gurney system for the new ambulance. Stryker has been supplying Coalinga Fire Department with ambulance equipment for over 20 years and maintains consistency throughout our fleet.

At the December 2, 2021, council meeting, City Council approved the purchase of a new ambulance for the fire department. This purchase included the ambulance, gurney, and related equipment. At the time the manufacture had significant delays sourcing the Power-Load system that goes with the gurney and is standard equipment on all Coalinga Fire Department ambulances. Waiting for the Power-Load to be in stock would have delayed taking delivery of the ambulance even further. To prevent the delay of receiving the ambulance it was decided to order the power-load later when Stryker supply was replenished. We have been informed that Stryker has received stock and have some available for purchase. Our sales rep has one in Fresno and can deliver and install within days of Council approval rather than the standard 6-8 week delivery time.

1 in 4 EMS workers will suffer a career ending back injury within their first four years in the field. The number one cause - Lifting. Use of the Power-Load system has proven to reduce spinal loading, resulting in reduced injuries, lost or modified workdays and Workers’ Compensation costs. The purchase of the Power-Load gurney system is necessary to meet the current service level objectives of the Fire Department by providing a safe and reliable transport system in our ambulance and is standard equipment in all our current ambulances.

Benefits of the Power-Load system include:

1. Helps boost safety by supporting the gurney throughout loading and unloading. The reduction in spinal load helps prevent cumulative trauma injuries to personnel.
2. Eliminates the need to “steer” the gurney into and out of the ambulance placing less strain and movement on personnel.
3. Helps minimize patient drops by supporting the gurney until the wheels are on the ground.
4. Meets dynamic crash test standards for maximized occupancy safety.

1. Do not approve the purchase. However, Stryker has advised of a price increase of 10-15% on October 1, 2022. (Not recommended).

The cost of purchasing the Power-Load system plus the Pro Care Maintenance plan for 6 years is $32,329.96. $22,884.76 for the Power-Load and $9,445.20 for preventative maintenance and unlimited repairs for 6 years. This purchase can be paid from IGT funds we have available. The purchase would have no impact on the current adopted budget or the General Fund.