Highland Beach Fire Rescue Portable Blood Testing

Highland Beach Fire Rescue paramedics can now run blood tests at accident scenes and receive results within minutes, using a portable epoc® Blood Analysis System recently deployed by the department.

The system allows paramedics to assess blood chemistry, electrolytes, and other vital markers on-site rather than waiting for hospital laboratory analysis. In time-sensitive emergencies like diabetic crises, heart attacks, and severe dehydration, the results guide immediate treatment decisions.

The Highland Beach Police and Fire Foundation funded the acquisition. The foundation previously purchased thermal imaging cameras, rescue tools, and training programs for the department.

Highland Beach Fire Rescue serves about 3,600 residents along 3.2 miles of Atlantic coastline in Palm Beach County. Paramedics carry other portable diagnostic tools including cardiac monitors, pulse oximeters, and glucometers. The blood analysis system expands that diagnostic capability to a broader range of blood chemistry values.