Tag Archives: New Jersey

Stroke Detection Mandate Comes to RAA

Richmond Ambulance Authority became Virginia’s first government-funded emergency medical service to train staff on advanced stroke detection, implementing the American Heart Association’s Essential Stroke Life Support program in December 2025. The initiative equips approximately 175 paramedics and EMTs with the BEFAST protocol – assessing balance, eyes, face, arms, speech, and symptom timing – allowing strokes to be identified faster.

During an untreated stroke, 1.9 million neurons die every minute, according to NIH-funded research. Patients receiving early treatment for this brain injury show remarkably improved outcomes, with some studies reporting 40% relative increases in independent ambulation.

With reports showing that approximately 205,000 annual EMS activations nationwide are related to suspected stroke, prehospital detection is critical. Stroke continuing education mandates, though, remain limited. States with requirements include Massachusetts, New Jersey, Virginia, California, Illinois, North Carolina, and Texas. New Jersey law N.J.S.A. 27:5F-27.1 mandates that “each emergency medical services [EMS] provider… shall incorporate training on the assessment and treatment of stroke patients”.

“Time is tissue,” explained RAA Training Coordinator Harold Mayfield. “[Most] brain tissue does not regenerate. The sooner we identify and treat, the better the outcome.”

Brain Injury Prevention on the Slopes

Katie Watt, captain of the Bates College Nordic ski team, filed suit in December 2025 after a 597-pound unsecured bench shelter struck her during track practice in October 2024, causing a skull fracture and traumatic brain injury. The case, still pending, alleges the college failed to anchor equipment despite 30 mph winds.

Maine’s ski statute 32 M.R.S. §15217 establishes that skiers accept inherent risks, including terrain, weather, and collisions, “as a matter of law,” while preserving claims for negligent operation or maintenance. Similar statutes exist in Colorado, New Hampshire, and Utah, while Vermont statues uniquely void all liability waivers. (I was told by a lawyer that, based on their experience in New Jersey, a ski slope operator is culpable only when gross negligence is proven, such as if they dug a deep hole in the slope terrain.)

Evidence-based TBI prevention emphasizes helmet use which reduces head injury risk by 29-60%. Additionally, avoid terrain parks (31% higher head injury risk), and stop skiing by mid-afternoon when 40% of injuries occur. Groomed intermediate runs, proper lessons, and pre-season conditioning significantly reduce risk.

With proper precautions, skiers can enjoy the slopes safely while understanding their legal responsibilities.