D.C. Unites Fire/EMS Officers
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Responders never know what they may encounter when they show up on a scene.
That's why it's essential that they know how to handle everything -- EMS, fire or HAZMAT, the department has decided.
For that reason, D.C. Fire and EMS is making some major changes to the way they handle emergencies in the nation's capital. All personnel in the department will receive training in all hazards.
Earlier this month, EMS supervisors raised their hands to take the same oath their fire service counterparts did many years ago.
The EMS officers -- many with decades of experience -- are now truly part of the team in every sense of the word, explained Chief Dennis Rubin.
They are on the same playing field as far as equal pay, benefits and retirement as fire officers. Heretofore, they were civilians.
"We are one agency, one force, one standard," Rubin said, adding that over the past 30 years, plans to consolidate always seemed to get sidelined.
For all agency personnel to have training in all aspects from EMS to suppression and rescue was the top recommendation from an EMS task force established by Mayor Adrian Fenty.
The group to examine the EMS operations and response was formed following the 2006 beating death of David Rosenbaum, 63, a veteran New York Times reporter. Rosenbaum's family agreed to drop its $20M lawsuit against the city if changes were made to the EMS system.
Rubin said the recommendations of the task force as well as action plans to implement them are available on the department's website.
"We have outstanding EMS supervisors who are now full-fledged partners. We are one force in this agency," he said, adding that the transition will be smooth.
Eventually, the 167 civilian EMS providers also may become sworn members of the department.
Deputy Chief Greg Blalock said he never believed he'd ever get the chance to not only raise his hand, but be on equal footing with others. "It's good to be standing side by side. This will bring uniformity and unification."
The 31-year veteran said for far too long, EMS had been considered a stepchild of the department, just as it has been in many agencies across the country.
He credits Rubin for stepping out, and making the longtime promises a reality. "It's about everyone being trained to handle all hazards. That's very important."
The medical director believes patients are the real winners.
"I see better patient care, better trained personnel, a better system," said Dr. James Augustine. Cross-training is vital as responders never know what challenges they may run across, he said.
The city is requiring its EMTs now to obtain certification through the National Registry.
Augustine said the city's providers have to meet the needs of the community, many of whom go to the emergency departments for their health care needs.
In Washington on a given day, there are about 350-400 EMS calls, and 85 for fires, wrecks and other incidents. "EMS is saving people from premature death," Augustine said. "They are keeping people alive." However, he added that the excellent work of the people on the street is often overshadowed.
Augustine, a former firefighter, said he believes the transition will enhance the city's emergency care system. Getting more people trained in EMS will result in more successes in the field.
Assistant Chief of EMS Rafael Sa'adah said the transition is a small piece in improving the quality of care.
Getting EMS officers on the same shift as people they are supervising is essential. "We will show up on a wide range of calls both BLS and ALS. Not only will we be evaluating, we are able to provide ALS if needed."
A provider observed to offer good patient care, may be selected to be a preceptor for a firefighter who is just learning their EMS skills.
On the fire ground or other major incident, the EMS supervisors will help establish and coordinate the EMS branch that may include triage, treatment, transport and rehab.
Sa'adah said he's proud that the department is progressive, especially in using Incident Command. He added that it's important for crews to follow it often so they become proficient.
Information about EMS performance, hospital diversions or closures or other information is available on the department's website. There's also a survey for people to take about the service they have received.
Sa'adah also said it's essential that residents and tourists receive the best care quickly regardless of the neighborhood where the incident occurs.
Rubin said the department is committed to enhancing the services in the nation's capital.
Related:
- DC EMS Performance Statistics page
- DC EMS Task Force Recommendations
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- D.C. to Settle with Family Over Mishandled EMS Response
- Family of Murdered Reporter Sues D.C., Hospital
- D.C. EMS Chief Apologizes for Man's Death
- D.C. Lawmakers Seek Fire/EMS Chief's Resignation
- D.C. Emergency Worker Fired Over Report
- Report Criticizes D.C. EMTs in Murder Case
- D.C. Council Member Defends Care of Reporter
- Investigation Finds More Lengthy D.C. Ambulance Waits
- Video: How Long Will You Be Waiting For An Ambulance?
- D.C. EMS Workers' Procedures Questioned
- Murdered Reporter's Family Calls for Investigation of EMS Response
