May I Help? I am an EMT

Those words just might be words you may not hear in the near future should you be in an accident. In the very near future. Unfortunately, the need for EMTs is greater than those who have an interest in assuming that role.

Thursday, Nov. 3, the local ambulance service held a meeting at the Event Center to share with the community the eminent need for volunteers for EMT training…focusing on not only taking the classes but taking the necessary testing to get licensed and become an active EMT. As stated at the meeting, it’s one thing to take the training…there is more to it.

And that “more” is branching beyond the knowledge of WHAT to do, it is being able to apply skills by being available to serve the community. One day, it is a strong reality that you or someone you know will need those services and when you dial 9-1-1 … your call will go unanswered.

Somewhere in the dictionary between “apathy” and “need” are two strong words – “commitment” and “dedication” and this community is looking for those individuals to step forward and fill those shoes.

Vince Mace, an active EMT of 14 years, summed it up as, “This is the worst (shape) we’ve ever been!” The years take a toll on you when the resources (assistants) are so limited.

Ambulance services are considered a “luxury” and not funded by the State. Across Montana ambulances services are quitting existence, facing the same issues as the Phillips County Ambulance Service. The service does get some assistance from the County Commissioners, the issue at hand is not financing at this time, it is the lack of individuals to answer the calls. The EMS operates on the income from calls. They are able to transfer to Havre or Glasgow; due to the lack of EMT’s they no longer transfer to other hospitals.

The classes that have been held usually begin with around 16 signed up for the initial meeting and once the applicants find out the commitment, and the usual realization is that it takes more than what one anticipated, the number dwindles. A recent class had ONE student complete the 160 hours to fulfill time restrictions to then take the State Exam. One per class does not, by far, fill the need.

Currently, EMTs are scattered around the county, with Dodson having none, Whitewater has one, Saco has two (and one is currently unavailable due to attending college) and Malta is home for the remaining on the roster, as well as the EMRs. Those who achieve the licensure of an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) can go on calls, but an EMT must be on the responding team. Drivers can have the training, but state law still requires an EMT before the call can respond. Between “apathy” and “need” is also the words “burnout” and “frustration.”

About 40 individuals were in attendance at the meeting, from various ages, interests, and occupations. There were some curious to hear the input, some retired EMT’s, some from medical backgrounds (FNP and RN), and if the Ambulance service is lucky, some who were sparked to contact EMT Coordinator Rhei Tharp, and do some serious consideration and contemplation of the opportunity.

The meeting offered those gathered to brainstorm options and perhaps new ideas. Most do not volunteer due to their work, some businesses allow EMTs and firefighters to take calls, however when you are the business owner, that poses other issues – not every business owner can drop everything every time to respond to every call. On occasion when one EMT can take the call, they had to rely on the Sheriff’s Office staff or Border Patrol personnel to assist.

Before the idea of contacting our legislators about the intensity of the training come to mind-they have been contacted and tried to no avail, the requirements are federal law.

It was discussed being able to do some of the classes and training online – an option that some with kids at home and active in sports can utilize. It comes down to the fact that lives of the general public and today’s families are busy with their own lives.

There is a strong possibility that a first aid class will be offered before the end of the year, potentially someone will fit the time constraints and continue on to become an EMT. Fifteen to twenty individuals are needed to make the class worthwhile.

Another idea surfaced through discussion as to working with the schools to provide First Aid Classes and perhaps EMT classes. Classes are already offered in the school; the concept is a great one – except the local EMTs cannot go back and forth to the school several times a day to facilitate the instructional classes.

Another issue the group faces is once the time and money are invested in training someone, usually younger individuals, they move to another community and we’re back at ground zero.

A prospective candidate is one who has the inner desire and commitment to do the job. Someone reading this article has that criteria…give it serious thought. As it has been said, someone who is retired and available would be ideal. Another stated, we are all growing older…some of us can’t because of health or back problems.

Think it over. You might be the one… the one with all the check-off points and just need to know how needed you are. Don’t shy away and then have to say: I coulda…I shoulda. Today’s a great day to be needed. If you or any of your loved ones and family ever needed ambulance services, now is an excellent opportunity to “pay it back” or “pay it forward.” Don’t look in the dictionary again…just search your heart.