What is an acceptable reason for a hospital to divert BLS units?

When considering the protocols for hospital diversion, it's important to understand the operational policies that guide the decision-making process for emergency services.

Transporting to MAR (the Major Access Route or designated centers) regardless of diversion status is an acceptable practice because it aligns with ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care. This is particularly crucial in emergency medical services, where patient outcomes can depend significantly on the efficiency of transport and facility access. In situations where a hospital is on diversion, the primary focus remains on ensuring that patients are still delivered to a suitable care facility, especially for those requiring immediate medical attention.

In contrast, other choices might arise from specific situations but do not meet the standard protocols for BLS unit diversion. For example, internal disaster situations refer to emergencies happening within the hospital that can indeed affect its ability to accept new patients. However, this scenario is more restrictive than the option regarding transport to MAR. Patient requests or staff preferences do not constitute valid reasons to override established protocols regarding patient care and transport; decisions must prioritize clinical needs and emergency response protocols over individual desires or non-emergency factors.

Therefore, the emphasis on transporting BLS units to designated routes irrespective of diversion aligns with the intention of maintaining healthcare accessibility and patient care continuity.