Over the past several years a lot of talk and study has gone into whether or not EMS is an essential service, or not. It was always interesting to watch the debates and changes made based on the need of the day. It has got me thinking about what EMS actually is in the eyes of the public and in the eyes of Emergency Medical Service workers. The name implies that we are an emergency service, but our actions define us in a much broader role. With that in mind I ponder the idea that maybe, like the fire department of old, we are in an identity crisis and it might be time to embrace our full range of diversity. This in turn makes us a far more essential service than some people are ready to admit.
The diversity in EMS reminds me of the days when fire departments first started up. Every time something happened that people didn't know how to handle, they called the fire department. Through that commitment to doing what was asked of them, the fire department has evolved into an entity that is highly diversified with many facets. In EMS many practitioners get upset when they are asked to do things outside of the norm. I think that it is time, as a profession, to embrace those things so that in time we also have a highly diverse practice. Having many specialities would allow practitioners to change their career field without changing their career.
More often than nought we are heading into situations that require many different techniques and plans to effect positive change for patients. These include putting patients in touch with external resources for help. We also can provide many treatments and therapies right in people's homes removing the need for an ER visit. We also partner with the hospitals in providing care to patients in hallways when hospitals are over capacity. We perform facility transports to home, or other Healthcare service providers. The list goes on and each of those facets can be and in some cases already exist within EMS.
I believe it will be many years before the powers that be and EMS nail down a conclusive version of what Emergency Medical Services is as a full entity. I also think that as practitioners it is our responsibility and our duty to own the diversity that is EMS in all of its facets. In time I foresee a highly diverse system that allows it's practitioners to participate in the parts they truly enjoy. I also firmly believe at some point as allied health care professionals we will also be seen as an essential emergency service without debate.
Wear your uniforms with pride my friends. Others may not see it yet, but the health care system and general public safety does need us. We are an essential emergency service with a bright and growing future full of diversity and opportunity.
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