if you were us...

[allforcats]

The major medical facilities and specialists are in Seattle and Bellevue. They include several hospital complexes, all of which have cardiac facilities with all the up-to-the-minute bling and world-class specialists.

911 facilities on the islands don't necessarily produce an ambulance -- more likely a sheriff's car. Then, emergency patients are usually helicoptered from the islands to Seattle or Bellevue, whichever is closer, or whichever has the specific facilities needed. There is a small fleet of emergency medical helicopters. However, to the best of my knowledge family/companions are not allowed on the medical helicopters, as I've heard that every inch is used up with paramedics and medical equipment. So family/companions must take a ferry, if it's still running (they shut down from approximately midnight to 6 am) and then drive to the hospital, and this journey can take hours to catch up with the patient. (I'm sorry, but I have no idea how much of the helicopter cost, if any, might be covered by medical insurance plans.)

I've lived here for 22 years and been somewhat involved in the real estate around here, and I sincerely suggest that if there's a house you love that's inconvenient, there's a similar house you'll also love in a location that IS convenient.

If I were your friend, I would strongly urge you to locate someplace where a 911 phone call would bring an ambulance quickly, that could get to a top-notch hospital quickly.

[Hoosierette]

many of the "official" sources we attempted to contact regarding emergency services on the island did not respond, or responded inadequately, so it just proves how valuable your posts here can be. We are now focusing on areas that don't require a ferry or a helicopter to get to the ER within the so-called "golden hour" after a cardiac event or stroke.

Again, your posts addressing all of our issues are most appreciated. This is a wonderful resource here but it is only as good as you people who take the time and energy to make it so.

Namaste

[allforcats]

You are very welcome. People love do give to others what they do best or know well, and it's fun to share with folks like you who actually say thanks :-)

Namaste'