Baird Point resumption put on hold

Following a thorough review of operations and reorganization efforts, a university review committee has concluded that UB's suspended student-run Baird Point Volunteer Ambulance Corps. (BPVAC) at this time should not resume handling medical emergencies on the North Campus.

"After careful consideration, it is clear that BPVAC has not been successful in its efforts to return to service," said Dennis Black, interim vice president for student affairs. "It still faces significant regulatory, operational and financial difficulties that must be addressed before it could again provide North Campus response. We will continue to work with the student organization on their future in the months ahead."

The decision not to reinstate BPVAC service, determined by a committee made up of university representatives, was based on a review process that included open meetings involving members of the UB community and student members of the ambulance service. During the discussions, medical emergency and transportation needs and options were explored and students presented progress reports and future plans.

Since BPVAC's suspension last fall, medical emergencies on the North Campus have been handled under a mutual-aid agreement between the Department of Public Safety, Getzville Fire Company and Rural/Metro Ambulance, and, according to Black, emergency medical service on the North Campus "has been consistent with the response time and level of care available elsewhere in the Town of Amherst." The same arrangement was in effect in the past during summers, breaks and times during the academic year when BPVAC was not available.

Black noted that "the university community should acknowledge the dedicated and continuous service provided to UB through the years by Getzville Fire Company volunteers. Their increased support and presence this year has been greatly appreciated and they will continue to service the campus for the duration of the year."

Black added that Public Safety, Residence Halls, the Division of Athletics and Health Services "continue to work together to ensure that emergency medical coverage for the campus community remains at the highest level of care available at all times."