Medical professionals on National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMATs) care for patients. Sometimes that means treating a twisted ankle or dehydration. Other times, that means stabilizing the patient following a heart attack until they are transferred to the hospital. NDMS teams are trained in advanced lifesaving techniques, and stand ready to provide support in the event of a more serious emergency, like a mass casualty situation. They deploy with portable medical stations, medical caches and equipment - everything they need to provide immediate care to the patient. Care is provided under the special and unique authorities provided by Congress for this unique and critical federal system.