Maybe if dropped out of EMT class the stuff that probably doesn’t make a difference (backboard, traction splint come to mind) we could use that time for fire arms practice (which I think would be a ridiculous use of the time). The time might be better spent on how to recognize dangerous situations, defuse patients, and perform assessments.

Thanks for the show.

Just listened to your podcast about situational awareness and I agree completely that EMS responders do not receive the proper training. Your points were very well made. I would welcome the opportunity to be a guest on one of your upcoming shows to talk more about SA and how it is developed and maintained. Big fan of your message. Keep it coming!

Rich

Referencing the part of the show that compares us to the fire department, and how they have “brotherhood” and we “eat our own”, have you considered the role money plays? None of the firefighters in all the local communities are vying for each other’s jobs, while we in EMS do. Every call our competitor (a private service) runs takes away from our revenue stream (we’re a not-for-profit hospital based service). Every 911 call we run creates the same concerns for them. If we can steal enough of their calls, maybe they’ll go out of business and then I have more job security. It’s hard to create comradie when we start talking livelihood. Give us defined response areas and a guaranteed revenue stream and it would be a lot easier for us to be supportive of each other.

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John J. Peruggia, BSHS, EMT-P, EFO
Assistant Chief, FDNY BEMS wrote :

I think that the public doesn’t realize or recognize the important role which EMS serves in the community. All to often, we are often considered the “ambulance driver” and EMS is considered the hospital taxi.

There is no understanding of what it is EMTs and Paramedics can do and the knowledge and skills that they possess.

I believe the media is indifferent to EMS and despite the many attempts by organizations and agencies to change this, we as an EMS community have been unsuccessful.

A standard description of who we are and what we do may be a good start. Also, a series on EMS or a couple of stories on the life saving work we perform would be of benefit.

The public and media are well aware of what it is that law enforcement does and constantly read of their success stories or see them on TV, isn’t it time for EMS to share the focus.

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Here is what Richard Huff had to say:
http://www.twitter.com/richmhuff

I will say this, I feel strongly knowledge of the media, how to use it, how to work with it, and what to do when the media comes calling should be integral to every EMS operation. Indeed, it’s something I’ve taught at EMS World Expo in Las Vegas and at the New Jersey State First Aid Conference.

EMS operations are often forgotten in the overall media picture of any event, and often overshadowed by the firematic end of a job. Why? Well, what they do is dramatic and in the public. What we do is done behind closed doors and not as easy for the media to watch.

So, we often lose out on opportunities. We also lose out because, like with many things, we fail to take responsibility and control. Every organization needs an active public information officer who is there not only for the breaking news, but to find ways to position the organization in non emergency situations.

Without a strong media component, a squad simply doesn’t exist in the minds of local residents.

Having one can help build awareness externally and increase morale internally.