[MR] Pennsic Health

[Andreas de Caunteton]

Greetings to those preparing to join and support our glorious forces at war!

In your preparations for same, please take an inventory of your personal health requirements and ensure that you have an adequate supply of prescriptions, OTC medications, vitamins and care supplemental items.  Look at your personal and camp cleaning/sanitation needs to protect against the plagues.  Plan for proper hygiene, balanced eating, good hydration, rest and protection from the elements.  Remember that both heat & cold exposure injuries are possible.  
It is strongly recommended that you exercise and practice acclimating yourself to the out of doors for comfort and endurance.    
There will be celebrations of our victories and personal triumphs - Please practice moderation and look out for your comrades!  We want everyone to come home safe and sound.        
The Chirurgeonate at Pennsic does still exist and operates from the same place - now called First Aid Point. The major change is that EMS now triages all patients and care will be delegated as appropriate.  
Your Kingdom Chirurgeon - Baroness Morwenna Trevethan and your North & South Deputies - Lady Ann La Settere & Lord Andreas de Caunteton will be in attendance along with other fine Atlantian Chirurgeons & Waterbearers; all happy to assist as able.   

YIS,
Andreas


>From the Pennsic Website:
First Aid Point
Greetings to the Populace, from Justin, PW36 Chirurgeon Coordinator, 
First aid and EMS services will be available at the First Aid Point and on the battlefield. We are located in the permanent shelter next to Public Safety, at the intersection of St. Lawrence and Brewer's Road. The First Aid Point will be open 24 hours a day, from noon on Friday, July 27 through noon on Sunday, August 12. 

Per SCA policies, Chirurgeons provide care up to advanced first aid. More serious conditions are diagnosed and treated by the on-site EMS professionals. Ambulance transport is available on an as-needed basis. A list of off-site medical, dental, pharmacy, and mental health facilities will be available at the First Aid Point so that Pennsic attendees may arrange for treatment of illnesses such as sore throat or flu. 

If you have chronic health issues, consult your doctor to ensure Pennsic will not complicate your condition. You may wish to fill out a Confidential Medical Information Form, to be secured at First Aid Point in case it is needed in an emergency. 

Treating Minors
Minors cannot be treated for non life-threatening injuries unless a parent or court-appointed legal guardian is physically present and gives consent. Waivers to treat minors which have been signed in advance are not valid in the state of Pennsylvania and will not be accepted. 

Volunteers
We are always in need of volunteers, including both Chirurgeons and Non-medical Volunteers. Non-medical Volunteers assist with record keeping, fundraising, supply inventory, housekeeping, and other tasks. 

Visit our Volunteer Coordinator at the First Aid Point if you are interested in being a Non-medical Volunteer or sign up in the "Help Offered" book at Information Point. 

Chirurgeons who wish to work at Pennsic will need to provide documentation of certification(s), SCA membership and warrant. Chirurgeons-In-Training (CITs) are welcome to work shifts toward completing their training program, if allowed by their Kingdom Chirurgeon. On-site first aid, CPR, and related classes are offered through the Pennsic University with the cooperation and support of the Chirurgeonate. 

Suggestions for a safe and healthy Pennsic:
  a.. Hydrate often with non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic liquids. 
  b.. Apply sunscreen often. 
  c.. Dress appropriately for different weather conditions. 
  d.. On cold nights, wear a cap to bed to reduce heat loss through your scalp. 
  e.. Wear sturdy and comfortable footgear with ankle support (especially important for combatants). 
  f.. Carry emergency medications with you. 
  g.. Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize; this includes food preparation and frequent hand-washing. 
  h.. Keep lids closed on toilets to discourage disease-carrying flies. 
Finally, if you have concerns or questions about services provided by the Chirurgeonate, please speak to the on-duty Deputy Chirurgeon Coordinator or to me as soon as possible. We strive for high levels of professionalism and welcome comments on how we can improve our services to the populace. 

Yours in service, 
Maistor Justinos Tekton
Pennsic 36 Chirurgeon Coordinator