Each of the league’s 32 teams is required to create one to deal with extreme situations like what happened to Hamlin, according to the NFL. As part of the plan, all clubs must identify a nearby level one trauma center, and have both an ambulance and airway management physician at the stadium during game days. These plans are then reviewed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association, before receiving required approval from a third-party expert.
After that, all teams must practice their emergency action plan at least twice prior to the start of the season. According to The Athletic, these practices consist of numerous drills that deal with a variety of different potential injury scenarios, including spine or head trauma, isolated head trauma, heat illness, cardiac arrest and trauma to the abdomen or lower body.
Additionally, the league staffs every game played with an average of 30 healthcare providers, including two EMT crews to operate advanced life-support ambulances. Per the NFL Player Health & Safety guidelines, officials meet with these healthcare workers, along with team medical staff, one hour before kickoff to run through the logistics of all emergency situations. The NFL’s officiating crews are also responsible for ensuring that ambulances, defibrillators and other necessary medical equipment are on hand.
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