Doing the right thing...

Making the right choice, doing the right thing...

I've been in EMS since 1988. I recognize that people do what they need to do to get a job. Many around these parts become a paramedic because it's a requirement to get on the fire department. Spend all that time in school learning the "skills," and then IMMEDIATELY get the attitude the minute they get hired somewhere that they have to occasionally ride the "shit box."

Really... Is that what it's about? All those citizens that vote to pay for the fire trucks and recliners, and this is how it works... When they call because they don't feel well, these guys have to go and answer their cry for help. To them, it's punishment because the patient isn't on fire.

Don't get me wrong, now. I spent 14 years on the FD, and enjoyed every minute of it. I left by choice to pursue a promotion in municipal third-service EMS, and have never been sorry for the choice I've made! I enjoyed riding the fire trucks while I worked at the FD, but I'll be damned if those resident's deserve any less than the best.

Why am I so concerned with this? I believe strongly in third-service EMS, and feel it's ultimately a better model for patient care. I mean, really, when you have chest pain, do you want to be admitted under the care of a general practitioner as your physician, a "jack-of-all-trades / master-of-none" overseeing your care, or would you prefer someone who takes care of that specific medical issue day in and day out?

EMS is changing so fast, the technology and trends. But, really, so is the fire service. Can one firefighter/paramedic really stay proficient enough in everything, or do you want a "generalist" to give you a ride to the ER because it's "easy?"

OK, down off my soapbox for today. I'm going to work to make this blog more active. Be aware, as you can see, this is my personal opinion... Sorry if you don't agree with it. I would like to hear about it, though!

Have a great evening!

~ Rob

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~ rob