CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Aug. 20, 2025) – Charlotte County Fire & EMS is now equipped with new EMS Patient Sensory Assistance Bags designed to help reduce stress and anxiety for patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder and others who may experience sensory sensitivities during medical transport.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Southwest Florida Healthcare Coalition, Golisano Children’s Hospital, the SEA STAR Program, and Charlotte County Fire & EMS.
Each bag includes a variety of tools designed to support patient comfort and communication:
- Noise-canceling headphones for sound reduction
- Sunglasses for light sensitivity
- Fidget spinners, pop-its, and tactile brushes for redirection and touch comfort
- Chew rings for oral sensory support
- A communication board to aid non-verbal interaction
The sensory assistance bags have been distributed to all Charlotte County Fire & EMS stations and placed on every ALS ambulance. EMS crews may use them at their discretion to better serve patients who would benefit from sensory support during emergency transport.
This effort reflects a growing recognition of the unique needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities and demonstrates Charlotte County Fire & EMS’s commitment to providing inclusive, patient-centered emergency care.
For information, contact Ashley Turner at 941-833-5610 or Ashley.Turner@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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