Emergency Medical Services for Collegiate Football Games: A Six and One-Half Year Review

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Abstract
An emergency medical services (EMS) system involving paramedic and physician coverage at collegiate football games is described. Injury data for six and one-half years were reviewed. During this period, the data indicated that 313 patients sought medical care, either at the first-aid stations on-scene or at a local hospital emergency department. Lacerations and abrasions were the most common presenting complaints, totaling 20%. Bee stings were the second most common injury. One paramedic per 5,000 and one physician per 30,000 spectators appear to be adequate coverage for this type of event, although preplanning for a mass influx of patients is a necessity. Recommendations are provided for some basic personal and health needs of spectators at mass gatherings.