EMS Today

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.

Coming Out of a Dark Place: A Leadership Journey

Eric Chase has a conversation with Shane Stephens, the EMS specialist for leadership development with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Stephens talks about how his position and personal experiences help grow collaboration.  

The Data Behind the Research

Chief Douglas Randell speaks with Dr. Remle Crowe and Dr. Jamie Kennel about following the data in EMS research.

The Evolution of EMS Medical Direction with Dr. Paul Pepe

In this special episode of the EMS Handoff Podcast, hosts Bradley Dean and David Blevins are honored to welcome the legendary Dr. Paul Pepe, a trailblazing EMS medical director whose groundbreaking work has shaped the foundation of modern-day EMS.

Dr. Pepe’s influence spans decades, and his passion for advancing prehospital medicine continues to inspire generations of EMS professionals. Join us as we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of EMS medical direction, exploring how this critical component of prehospital care evolved into what it is today.

In This Episode

• A look back at the early days of EMS and how medical direction began.
• Dr. Pepe’s personal journey and contributions to prehospital medicine.
• How medical directors bridge the gap between field providers and the healthcare system.
• Insights into the challenges and successes of shaping EMS protocols and education.
• Lessons learned and advice for current and aspiring EMS leaders and medical directors.

Whether you're a seasoned EMS professional, a new provider, or simply passionate about the history and future of prehospital care, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

About Dr. Paul Pepe
Dr. Paul Pepe is renowned for his pioneering work in EMS systems development, resuscitation science, and disaster response. With a career dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovation and collaboration, Dr. Pepe remains a cornerstone of EMS advancement worldwide.

Clinical Pharmacy in Motion: Ride-Alongs and Research in EMS

Hennepin EMS in Minnesota is breaking new ground in prehospital care with the introduction of a clinical pharmacist consulting role, designed to tackle complex challenges and foster collaboration between paramedics and pharmacists through hands-on support and cutting-edge research.

The clinical pharmacist acts as a bridge between hospital and field operations, ensuring prehospital teams have the support they need to improve patient outcomes. A critical part of the pharmacist’s responsibilities includes hands-on engagement. From participating in ambulance ride-alongs to hosting open-door consultations, this role prioritizes practical and actionable solutions.

At the heart of this initiative is Holly Drone, PharmD, Hennepin EMS’s clinical pharmacist. Not only has Holly been integral to placing this program into action, but she’s also contributing to the field through her research. Her studies focus on essential topics such as Sodium Nitrate Overdose management, the initiation of Buprenorphine in prehospital settings, and the use of Oral Risperidone by EMS providers in the field.

To learn more about this innovative role and hear directly about her experiences and research, check out her recent interview on the podcast “EMS Research with Professor Bram.” Holly provides unique insights into the evolving relationship between paramedics and pharmacists as well as the critical role clinical pharmacy plays in improving prehospital care.

Telemedicine Connects Rural Paramedics to Physicians

JEMS Editor-in-Chief Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Dr. Michael J. Carr about how telemedicine is saving lives in Georgia.

Carr, the executive director of Prehospital & Ambulatory Virtual Emergency Services (PAVES) at Emory University, says patients in rural counties now have access to doctors and specialists even before they reach the hospital.

Rethinking Medical Direction in the 21st Century

Join hosts Bradley Dean and David Blevins as they sit down with Dr. David Tan to explore the evolving role of medical direction in EMS. Together, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities shaping EMS systems and the clinicians who drive them forward.