EMS Today

Not A-Fib: Navigating the Complexities of Medicaid

In the latest episode of the Not A-fib podcast, host Mark Flauter welcomes back attorney Kevin Fairley to explore the tumultuous landscape of Medicaid funding and its impact on Emergency Medical Services (EMS). With a looming budget shortfall and proposed cuts to provider taxes, states face potential financial crises that could significantly impact healthcare delivery. The discussion delves into the complex interplay between state-directed payments, federal oversight, and the growing scrutiny from agencies like the Office of Inspector General (OIG). Fairley highlights the need for EMS leaders to adopt a proactive approach to compliance, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances of cost-reimbursement structures and maintaining accountability. As Medicaid faces critical changes under the new political landscape, this episode offers valuable insights for healthcare stakeholders to prepare for the uncertainties ahead. Tune in to stay informed about the evolving Medicaid policies affecting EMS agencies nationwide.

The EMS Pod: Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah on EMS, Pediatric Care and Health Equity

In honor of Women’s History Month, EMS P.O.D. host Chief Doug Randell sits down with Dr. Owusu-Anshan, associate professor of Pediatrics & Emergency Medicine University at Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She is a trailblazer for women who has improved the lives of patients and creates opportunities for those who otherwise would not. This interview gives you a chance to learn of many of the exciting activities she’s involved with, including “The Pitt” now streaming on MAX.

 

The JEMS Report: Insights from Jeremy Mast on Managing EMS Operations

JEMS Report host Dr. Ted Lee interviews Jeremy Mast, CEO of Tri-County Ambulance Service, to discuss the pivotal role of leadership during challenging situations in EMS. Drawing upon his 30 years of experience in fire and EMS, Mast shares invaluable insights on preparing for unforeseen events, fostering a supportive organizational culture and ensuring crew well-being. He emphasizes the importance of strong leadership visibility during crises to reassure teams and facilitate effective decision-making. Through their conversation, they explore strategies for building robust community connections and the impact of training and mentorship on individual growth within the EMS landscape.

EMS Research with Professor Bram: Moving Toward Safer Pediatric Transport Care in EMS

Moving Toward Safer Pediatric Transport Care in EMS
Insights from Dr. Nick Cochran-Caggiano’s Research on Pediatric Transport and Resuscitation
By Bram Duffee, PhD, EMT-P

Transporting children in ambulances presents unique challenges that EMS providers face every
day. Issues like the correct use of safety equipment, performance of life-saving procedures like
CPR, and the absence of universal standards can make pediatric care in emergency settings more
difficult than necessary.
Dr. Nick Cochran-Caggiano, an emergency physician and researcher, has taken a deep look into
these challenges through two pivotal studies that every EMS worker should know about. Both
studies were discussed on the latest podcast episode of “EMS Research with Professor Bram.”
The Unsafe Reality of Pediatric Transport in Ambulances
One of Dr. Cochran-Caggiano’s studies, published in Pediatric Emergency Care (2023),
examined how children are secured during ambulance transport. The study reviewed over 3,000
cases by observing video footage of ambulances arriving at a pediatric emergency department.
The findings reveal a troubling reality:
 Just 53.5% of children were transported using the correct safety device for their weight.
 A staggering 77.1% of transport restraints were not used properly, putting children at
significant risk.
 Commercially made pediatric restraints were found to be the best option, yet these
were still improperly used half the time.
 For many patients, ambulance cots were the default method of transport, but this was
only the correct choice in 18.2% of cases.
Dr. Cochran-Caggiano shared his thoughts on this alarming data during a recent interview,
emphasizing that the absence of consistent safety standards puts children at unnecessary risk.
"Having some sort of ability to transport children safely is a must," he said. He also pointed out
the pitfalls of the current patchwork approach to pediatric safety in EMS. "There’s no appropriate
way to secure [a child’s car seat] to an ambulance stretcher. You can make a good faith effort, but
that’s really all it is."
Why This Matters
Improper restraint practices don't just violate safety protocols—they create scenarios where
otherwise preventable injuries become inevitable. Reflecting on the need for systemic change,
Dr. Cochran-Caggiano pushed for a proactive approach, stating, "Let’s make a difference before

EMS Improv: Bonnie Rumilly's Journey Through Trauma and Resilience

EMS Improv Podcast host Eric Chase welcomes Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT-B, EMDR therapist. In this conversation, Bonnie shares some personal experiences as well as offers insights and actionable takeaways. Bonnie shares her personal story of resilience, highlighting her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a compassionate caregiver for her community. As they explore topics such as dysregulation, trauma bonding and the importance of addressing mental health, listeners gain valuable insights into recognizing the signs of trauma and seeking help. Bonnie emphasizes the critical role of early processing and trauma-informed care, offering hope and actionable steps for those navigating their healing journey.

EMS Improv: Resilience in the Face of Adversity: A Flight Paramedic's Journey from Patient to Advocate

EMS Improv Podcast host Eric Chase welcomes Jason Bazelow, a flight paramedic turned patient advocate. Jason shares his experience of surviving an aortic dissection, during which he faced a reality of clinical death for an astounding 34 minutes. Through vulnerability and transparency, he narrates the profound emotional, psychological and physical toll of his journey, not only on himself but also on his family. As Jason reflects on his transition from being a healthcare provider to becoming a patient, he emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, mental health awareness and genuine communication within the healthcare system. Hear how Jason's story not only resonates with survivors and healthcare professionals but also serves as a beacon of hope and understanding for those navigating their own health challenges.

The JEMS Report: The American Red Cross's Commitment to Life-Saving Education

In this episode of the JEMS Report, Dr. Ted Lee and Jonathan Epstein from the American Red Cross discuss critical developments in prehospital resuscitation education, especially surrounding Heart Month. Epstein highlights the Red Cross's longstanding commitment to lifesaving training, evolving from traditional community-focused programs to a comprehensive suite that includes Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support and the newly launched Neonatal Advanced Life Support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tailored educational offerings for both public and healthcare professionals, aiming to bridge the gap in emergency medical response across diverse communities. The Red Cross’s innovative Mission CPR project looks to improve bystander CPR rates in underserved areas, underscoring that every second counts during cardiac emergencies. For EMS providers and healthcare professionals, this initiative represents a significant step forward in achieving better patient outcomes and preparedness in life-threatening situations.

Not A-Fib: Insights from First Responders on Mental Wellness

In episode 18 of the Not AFib podcast, host Mark Flauter talks with paramedic Rachel Belcher to explore the often-overlooked topic of "duty-bound grief," a unique form of grief experienced by first responders. Looking into their shared experiences, Rachel discusses how cumulative exposure to traumatic events leads to emotional overwhelm, revealing the intricacies of compartmentalization and its long-term impacts on mental health. Through her advocacy for comprehensive mental wellness education, she emphasizes the importance of self-assessment, regular mental hygiene practices, and the value of peer support networks. Rachel’s personal journey to recovery from trauma and her call for systemic change underscore the urgent need for robust resources tailored to the needs of first responders. This episode serves as a vital reminder that acknowledging grief and seeking help is an act of courage, fostering resilience within those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

Chicago Fire and EMS Heart Month

JEMS Editor-in-Chief Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Dr. Kate Tataris, EMS director for Chicago EMS System and Chicago Paramedic-in-Charge Chris Powers about cardiac arrest and heart programs.

Infection Control for Emergency Responders

JEMS Editor-in-Chief Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Dr. Christine McGuire-Wolfe, the director of Infection Control for Emergency Responders (ICER) Collaborative and Training Hub.

Read more about the program and how you can help by clicking here.