Virginia
LIFELINE
March / April 2017 The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads
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2016-2017 VAVRS Officers President Kim Craig Vice President Scott Davis Secretary Connie Moore Treasurer Tarry Pribble Training Officer Greg Burton Chaplain Gary Dalton Chaplain Emeritus Page Entsminger Historian Frank Smith Immediate Past President: Rickey Hodge Chief Rescue Officer Bubby Bish Editor: Karen Wagner Parliamentarian Steve Southworth Facilities Manager: George Langford Legal Advisor: Mary Malone Medical Advisor James R. Dudley, MD, MBA
District 1 V. P. Patrick Scott District 2 V. P. Carolyn White District 3 V. P. Chris Snyder District 5 V. P. Jason Morgan District 6 V. P. Scottie Adams District 7 V. P. Curtis Crawford District 8 V. P. Thomas Tomlin District 9 V. P. Ruth Johnson District 10 V. P. Wesley Melson Training Coordinator Kathy Eubank Office Assistant Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper Cynthia Babb Lobbyist Ed Rhodes
2016-2017 VAVRS Committees Membership: Scott Davis| Human Resources: Scott Davis Bylaws: Bruce Stratton Life Membership: Steve Davis Publication: Karen Wagner Conference Chair: Tarry Pribble Conference Co Chair: Bubby Bish Finance: Tarry Pribble Future Vision Chair: Ken Morgan Future Vision Co Chair: Mac McGuire Rescue College Chair: Wayne Myers EMS Advisory Board: Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board: Dreama Chandler
New Course Development: Cecil Leach Scholarship: Greg Burton Public Relations: Wesley Melson Recruitment & Retention: Wesley Melson Rescue Hall of Fame: Lin Matthews EMS Exchange: Kevin Dillard Legislative: Bubby Bish Information Technology: Steve Ayers Volunteer Management Co Chair: David Tesh Volunteer Management Co Chair: Walter Stephens Grant Writer: Elizabeth Papelino
2016-2017 VAJVRS Officers President Bradley Hancock Vice President Adarah Williams Secretary/Treasurer Cara Beasley Historian Brandon Propst Chaplain Makayla McMahan Advisor, Chair Alfred Smith Advisor Brandon Baugus Advisor Kim Melson Advisor Emily Pittman
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District 1 V.P. : Kalee Stevenson District 3 V.P. : Cara Beasley District 5 V.P. : Tyler McGaughey District 6 V.P. : Bradley Hancock District 6 V.P. : Toby Akers Jr. District 7 V.P. : Adarah Williams District 9 V.P. : Alice Becker District 10 V.P. :Emily Laveroni
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2016-2017 AVAVRS Officers President - Harry Householder Vice President - Ailease Short Secretary - Marie Householder Treasurer - Fay Browning Chaplain - Linda Berkstresser Historian - Valarie Becker Parliamentarian - Nancy Winner
Immediate Past President - Fern Puckett Midwestern Dist. VP - Dolores Hudson Northeastern VP - Maxine Kerns Southcentral VP - Vicki Arnold Southeastern VP - Elsie Butler Southwestern VP - Diane Haga Western VP - Debbie Rohr
2016-2017 AVAVRS Committee Chairs Conference: Fern Puckett Conference: Ruth Swicegood Nominating: Donna Porter Life Membership: Jean Garrett Emergency Care: John Dimino
From your Editor... Karen D. Wagner Welcome to the pages of the LIFELINE, the Official publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads. As your Editor I believe I honestly have the most AWESOME position in the VAVRS. Being able to share news and information statewide allows the VAVRS to promote EMS through the eyes of our membership. We reach your supporters, work along side regional, state and national fire and EMS departments, localities and organizations. What an honor to be on YOUR team helping to promote YOUR agency. Please continue to share your stories with us. I can not express how important it is to keep your name, your agency, your membership and your service in the forefront. We are here to help you do that, here in the pages of the LIFELINE. Thousands browse the pages of this publication on line from everywhere in the world simply by opening the LIFELINE link at www.vavrs.com. “The VAVRS is your LIFELINE to EMS”
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Resolutions: Nancy Winner Membership: Ailease Short Finance: Fay Browning Roll Call: Laura Booze Roll Call: Clara Craig
Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS. Feature articles are encouraged. Photos and/or graphics are acceptable and can be returned if requested. Contact the VAVRS Editor at editor@vavrs.com if you need assistance in writing an article Deadline for future issues are as follows: April 1, 2017 for the May/Jun 2017 Issue June 1, 2017 for the Jul/Aug 2017 Issue August 1, 2017 for the Sep/Oct 2017 Issue September 1, 2017 for the Conference Issue October 1, 2017 for the Nov/Dec 2017 Issue Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00 March/April
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From the VAVRS President Kim Craig The Executive Committee’s first workshop and meeting for 2017 was held this past weekend. I want to thank all the Executive Committee members that attended. A lot of thanks and appreciation goes to Mac McGuire who led the workshop. We began Friday night breaking out into 5 teams. Each team had an organizer who was the scribe. The teams were tasked to list 3 top elements that the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squad faces. Not only were they to make the list but discuss pros and cons then make recommendations for an action plan. The action plan was to answer the cost that will be involved, can the action plan be implemented by the Executive Committee or will it need a vote of the Board of Governors and or will it require a bylaw change. The teams worked excitably into the night. On Saturday morning the teams presented their list to the members of the Executive Committee. A presentation was given by each team on what they felt should be the top priorities. Each item was listed on the board. Then each member was to rate the items from what they thought was to be the top priority to the least. But each item will be reviewed. The top 5 priorities were assigned to a Champion who would lead a group in making recommendations on an action plan to how the VAVRS is to proceed. There were deadlines set for each team to report on the progress. The dates were set between now and June. The final action plan will be presented at the June Executive Committee Meeting. Each Champion will be held accountable to report their progress. The top 5 priorities that were assigned are: #1 The need for the VAVRS to hire an Executive Director: Could this position be a contract position? Job tasks will be to oversee the daily operations of the Association by working closely with the President, be the spokesperson for VAVRS, fundraising projects, marketing and not only be a voice for EMS but a face for EMS. (Steve Southworth and Lin Matthews were appointed Champions to #1) #2 Reorganizing of Convention (Conference): This team has the task of the possibility of merging with other groups for a convention to share costs, when to have an opening ceremony that can involve all the groups of the VAVRS, what are the best dates for the convention and should the VAVRS consider changing venue to have the convention or should change places every year around the Commonwealth. (Frank Smith and Bubby Bish were appointed Champions for #2). #3 Public Relations/Marketing/Public Information Officer: This item was a topic that 4 of the teams listed as their top 3 priorities. The members of the Executive Committee had a lot of discussion on this item and discussed how important it is to get the information out about VAVRS. Some of the recommendations were to hire or appoint a Public Information Officer, an email distribution to have better communication to everyone and a plan for marketing. (Curtis Crawford and Karen Wagner were appointed Champions for #3). #4 VAVRS TV: There would be resources available on a VAVRS TV channel. Meetings could stream live, training and educational sessions could stream, recruitment to VAVRS could be done and the Association could advertise. (Wesley Melson as Social Media Manager was appointed Champion) #5 VAVRS app: I know all you smart phone and computer geeks will be excited about this one. It was presented how an app could improve communication and members could have up to date information on the happenings of the Association. (Steve Ayers was appointed Champion). Other items that were listed to be reviewed and action plans will be recommended: To open Rescue College to nonmembers: Wayne Myers will be making recommendations to the Board of Governors on what will be the benefits and how this can be done. Efficiency in Training: Jason Morgan presented this from Team 2. Recommendations on how we could reduce reimbursement and get more of the instructors across the Commonwealth to do more teaching of classes. The instructors would have accountability to their area and classes will be distributed out for better coverage and better use of the VAVRS instructors. Communication: Chris Snyder presented this from Team 3. How can the top 4 officers better (Continued on page 7)
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communicate with the District Vice Presidents and communication could be improved about events going on and legislative issues. Recommendations on how officers, members, Juniors and Auxiliary could better interact and communicate. Two items were discussed for action plan recommendations from the Juniors. The Junior Association were appointed to be the Champion on 2 items: #1 Junior Training #2 Allowing the Junior Association to have individual members We all left the workshop very enthusiastic. Every member of the Executive Committee was involved with a lot of discussion. Each Champion with their team will be accountable for making recommendations. Action plans will be done. The Officers will be working with each team to make sure that each one of the items will be moving forward. Rescue College is June 9-18, 2017. This year’s Rescue College is dedicated in memory of Kelly Southard. Kelly received Life Membership in VAVRS in 2010 which is the highest honor bestowed on individuals for outstanding service to the Association. He was very instrumental in Vertical Rescue and Vehicle Rescue as an instructor and the development of the advanced classes. The brochure will be mailed to the agencies and members can also view and register online. Please get the word out to all members so that we can have great attendance. Some new classes that will be taught are “Tricks of the Trade”, Stabilization University, EMS for Canine Officers and Officer 1. There will be some awesome classes taught. It is one of the best educational experiences anyone can have. Camporee will be May 12-14. Location and details will be announced soon. Please check the website and Facebook for the details. It is always a good time for networking and fellowship, Mark your calendars. Our Historian, Frank Smith, has announced the theme for Scrapbooks; Virginia EMS Then and Now. There will be more information to come. The National EMS Memorial Service will be May 20th at the Hyatt Regency in Crystal City. This year there will be 28 individuals that will be honored, who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The legislative committee has been very busy. VAVRS had lobby day at the General Assembly. We spoke to the legislatures about supporting the EVOC bill. The Executive Committee voted to support continuation of EMT-I. The discussion and VAVRS took a stand to support those that are EMT-I so they can continue to practice as EMT-I and their certification will remain with continuing education requirements being met. There will be town hall meetings across the Commonwealth. Please make an attempt to go to one of the Town Hall meetings to have your voice heard.
As you can tell your Officers continue to work for You. Please let me know if you have any suggestions and ideas. Remember, as I have said before, the future of VAVRS lies in the membership. With the future, new doors will open with opportunities, dreams, achievements and change.
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Staffing Options Cover Demands Karen Wagner, Editor VA Lifeline Assuring there is adequate staffing to cover call volumes is an issue every EMS agency in the Commonwealth manages on a daily basis. Options may include utilization of volunteer staffing, career staffing, utilize both volunteer and career staff, call in extra crews, move crews from one station to another, incorporate career staff from local government, have local government handle EMS staffing, contract providers from commercial ambulance services, partner with local fire departments for staff or other creative forms of staffing ambulances to answer calls. How does an agency assure they have enough staffing for every call? Well the truth is... they can’t. No agency can staff for every unexpected, unpredicted, or unscheduled need for emergency services response. One thing for certain, however, as a licensed EMS service provider in Virginia, agencies have the responsibility to meet agreed upon response expectations which are established to assure appropriate emergency service to the citizens and visitors of their community service area. In years past, volunteers made up the greatest percentage of staffing for agencies in Virginia and contrary to some beliefs, volunteer EMS providers are not a dying breed, there are less of them in some areas, but they are not gone. There are still multiple agencies who proudly brand themselves with the tag line, “Staffed by 100% Volunteers”, and they should be proud, because they have something that is very rare and not many agencies have the luxury of boasting that trademark. For most agencies supplemental staffing in some form is a necessity for service survival. Don’t think it’s as simple as hiring a few folks to fill in the gaps and run calls, because not managed well, the pressure of not having enough staff can quickly turn into a staffing nightmare. Agencies have to consider the cost of staffing. Often overlooked is the simple fact that volunteers actually cost an agency money. They may not get a paycheck for their time, but there is a cost for having ANY type of staffing whether you pay them by the hour or with a T-shirt or a handshake. If you have paid staff, where do the funds come from to pay them? How does an agency decide who gets paid and how they get paid? Incentives or stipends, if you give them to a volunteer are they now considered employees? What about donations, can they be used to pay staff? If the agency utilizes revenue recovery or fee for service to pay staff does that take away their 501C3 status? Does having paid staff or billing for service mean that the agency has to meet different regulations when it comes to service provision? Successful agencies know that running an EMS agency is a business and it has to be treated as a business. First and foremost, every agency needs to have a business plan or model with competent leaders to thrive. Fear that hiring staffing to meet service demands and/or charging a fee for providing service changes anything about an agency is unfounded yet honestly could be the difference between success and failure. EMS service is unique mostly because it started by utilizing volunteer workers thus didn’t need to make money to pay employees, agencies made do with what they had or was given to them and donations provided them with the finances to pay the bills. That business model is simply no longer feasible, and the few agencies that maintain that practice are as unique as those that are still “Staffed by 100% Volunteers”. With so many possibilities, agencies have become creative in scheduling coverage. With planning, budgeting, and good management, staffing can be one of the joyful aspects of running an EMS agency. No one model works for every agency and the flexibility of the service allows every agency to create a system that works best to meet their call volumes and demand. Here are examples of a few business models agencies are using to address their staffing needs; Agency AAn agency with over 60 years of service. Call volume exceeding 1800. Incorporated a full time EMS Supervisor (paid position). The position handles all of the scheduling for 24/7/365 staffing for the agency includes Volunteer and paid staff. Responsibilities include; Run on the ambulance, scheduling physicals and drug screens, training, employee evaluations, attend agency board meetings, assures fleet readiness and OEMS Compliance for data reporting. Assures compliance for data reporting for billing. (Continued on page 10)
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Incorporated 2 full time and 6 part time staff (3 ALS– 3 BLS). Paid staff run 6am to 6pm Sun-Sat. Volunteer staff complete 6pm to 6am Sun–Sat. Volunteer staff second ambulance as available anytime/if available. All staff, paid and volunteer wear/receive same uniform, utilize same fleet, compensated for mandatory training classes, attend all squad functions. Paid staff may not run as volunteer member when off duty. (Note: agency hired staff and incorporated fee for service at same time. A public service campaign was used to announce fee for service to the community-no drop in donations first year and funds generated through fee for service covers100% of staffing costs). Agency B– An agency with 49 years of service. Call volume 2400 annually. Average call length 32 minutes. 12 active volunteers/10 associate volunteers. Incorporated 6 full time staff (3 ALS/3 BLS) and 4 part time staff (2ALS/2BLS). One position Paid Staff Supervisor– (Answers to agency Captain) Duties include schedules paid staff 24hr shifts 7 days a week, assures fleet readiness, assures building housekeeping, assures compliance for Elite data reporting, assures compliance for billing, assists Captain with personal review, hiring and disciplinary actions. Agency incorporated fee for service one year after incorporating paid staff. No decline in donations in 4 years. Revenue covers staffing needs. Agency CAn agency with 60 years of service. Call volume 780 annually. Two stations. 20-25 volunteers. Average call length 2.5 hours. Volunteer EMS Officer schedules all staffing coverage– members submit their availability by 15th of the month. The Officer fills as many shifts using submissions. Agency then contracts with commercial providers to fill open slots. Contract staff require agency provide a minimum of 8 hour shift when scheduling. Any call offs are covered by contractors if other volunteers are not available. Agency participates in fee for service and billing is handled by agency treasurer. Agency DAn agency with 45 years of service-Call volume 2500 annually. Volunteer staffing supplemented with county Fire and EMS as second due. Agency was not always able to transport due to level of service required thus if county staff arrived on scene they transported. Agency contracted with Commercial Ambulance Company to provide 1st truck out staffed always at ALS level. This eliminated need for county dual response. To pay for the contract the agency the commercial agency bills for the calls they provide transport. Since commercial agency meets highest level of certification, agency gets credit for and is able to meet locality response expectations. Agency receives percentage of funds from county billing for the calls that volunteer staff transports. So face the fact….call demands are the reason most agencies struggle with staffing and the only way to address it is to increase staffing. Don’t fall into the pit that demands on volunteers are too high and agencies can not get or keep volunteers anymore. Being an EMS provider requires training, it takes skill and it takes time. Not everyone can do this job, and it is a job, a unique one that demands its staff have a desire to help their fellow man/women. Some people have the time to volunteer for it, some people don’t, and for that reason agencies should embrace those that can and be creative with your staffing model to accommodate the time volunteers can give to your agency. It is well documented that more and more people live and visit our great state and agencies have to up the ante in order to meet their service demands or face possible consequences. Public expectations for immediate response is high...think about it…when was the last time you saw the crews on Chicago Fire go to two calls at one time… yea they don't show that on TV do they and the public does not think it happens in real life either. The public wants an ambulance there when they call for one and AGENCIES WANT to do their best to be there when the public calls. Service models of all types work and agencies have to make the move . Agencies have to step outside the past and jump into the future for their agency. Don’t be afraid to try something, partner with appropriate service providers and take charge of your business. Agencies have the right to run their business as they see fit as long as it meets its service expectations. Do nothing and the agency will surely fail, instead do what works for your agency, for your locality, and most of all for the citizens that your serve. Quality Patient Care. Keep that as the major focus always, it is the sole purpose of any agencies existence. Official
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Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue (LCVRS), the first independent rescue squad in Loudoun County, celebrated its SIXTY FIFTH ANNIVERSARY of providing quality service to its community. Either behind the scenes or in the forefront, LCVRS has played a major role in the development of the EMS System in Loudoun County since 1952. On September 7, 1952, twelve men with different occupations and interests met in the basement of the Hamilton Fire Department to form the Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad. LCVRS’s first call to duty involved a search. These initial LCVRS members searched until called off due to darkness and resumed their pursuit in the morning. Ultimately the search crew found the victim less than a mile from his house. During that first year, a member’s car served as an ambulance and members took a first aid class. The squad would run one other call that year. By 1955, the 22 member strong squad moved to “The Barn” located on St. Paul Street in Hamilton. “The Barn” housed a donated ambulance and a converted utility truck called the “Crash Truck”. The only light in “The Barn” shone from a single light bulb connected to the home of the building owner. The members dug ruts into the floor and pulled the antenna pulled down to move the “Crash” Truck into the building. Outgrowing the St. Paul St. location in 1959, members hired a contractor to erect a new building on Laycock St. To save money the members helped the contractor build their new home.
Meeting the growing needs to provide emergency service to Leesburg, LCVRS established the “Headquarters” on Catoctin Circle in 1972. Two locations allowed the squad members to provide swift and efficient service for a larger area of Loudoun County. This combined service lasted until Hamilton Rescue formed in 1974. From our humble beginnings of twelve, LCVRS now operates with over 140 members. Today the squad maintains a fleet of six ambulances and three support units staffed by a volunteer crew nights and on weekends. LCVRS supplements staffing with Loudoun County Fire and Rescue career units. This past year the combined volunteer and career ran a total of To commemorate the LCVRS anniversary, we celebrated this significant milestone at the Lansdowne County (Continued on page 12)
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Club January 20th through 21st. Friday evening, the celebratory weekend started with a past and present member social where fifty attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, refreshments and reminiscing. As any other squad in the VAVVRS will tell you the juniors are our lifeblood and it definitely proved true that evening. One of the first juniors “Little Dude” Moxley attended as well as nine other past juniors. 5 of those juniors remain active in the squad today. Hearing past members exchange stories is a once in a lifetime experience. On Saturday evening approximately 175 past and present members joined together for fine food, company, and dancing at the Banquet. Thanks to VAVRS President Kim Craig for installing the officers of LCVRS and AVAVRS President and LCVRS Harry Householder, for installing the Auxiliary officers. In addition to installing officers LCVRS leadership acknowledges the exemplary work of the following individuals: Allen P. Polen Squad Person of the Year: Stevan Porter,; Larry T. Payne Memorial Junior Training Award: Jessica Harris; Ed Kitts Memorial Award: James Cromer; Chief’s Operational Award: Jessie Nelson; President’s Administrative Award: Robert Wilson; Junior Squad Member of the Year: Jamie Nelson; Outstanding Training Award: Ken Phillips; Most Calls: Augustine Rosas; Rookie of the Year Award – Jeffrey VanGilder; Length of service awards: Rick DiZerega (45 yrs.), Tuffy Warner (25 yrs.), Sam Moten (20 yrs.) as well as others. The LCVRS Auxiliary awarded its members with the following awards:; Outstanding Member: Kelly Snell; Presidents Award: Kelly Snell and Patricia Russell The evening closed with dancing, rekindling old friendship and making new ones. What the future holds for LCVRS no one knows but those who attended tonight can be extremely proud of the role LCVRS played in their lives.
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Charlie loves classical music … particularly that of Bach and Handel. But getting out to hear a live symphony is difficult for Charlie because he is a hospice patient and has Parkinson’s disease, aphasia, is blind in one eye, and lives in a nursing home. Thanks to “Reflections in the Rearview” - a partnership between LifeCare Medical Transports and Mary Washington Hospice – Charlie was treated to the trip of a lifetime … a live performance of the Richmond Symphony. On the evening of November 28, 2016, a LifeCare wheelchair van arrived at Marian Manor in Stafford County. LifeCare providers Thomas McGowan and Sue Connors were greeted by a social worker from Mary Washington Hospice and LifeCare’s President Kevin Dillard and Vice President Dan Wildman. Charlie was finishing his meal in preparation for the evening’s event. With a fanfare from the staff of Marian Manor, Charlie was loaded into the van and was on his way to the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond. Charlie and the transport team were provided reserved seating in the cathedral just a few rows away from the symphony. Charlie was treated to a variety of classical Christmas pieces performed by the Richmond Symphony, the Parish Choir of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, and the VCU Choral Arts Society. Although Charlie is unable to speak, and his Parkinson’s makes it difficult to make facial expressions, he miraculously was able to clap his hands at the conclusion of a piece by one of his favorite composer’s … Bach. At the conclusion of the concert, Charlie was treated to a meeting with Erin Freeman, the conductor of the Richmond Symphony, who shared her gratitude for his journey to Richmond – and sang to him making this a truly a magical evening out for Charlie. Charlie was the first recipient of a “Reflections in the Rearview” special outing. Kevin Dillard shared, “We look forward to many more outings for our area hospice patients. It is such a heartwarming experience to provide hospice patients with memorable experiences created just for them.” “Reflections in the Rearview” is a community partnership intended to provide a special outing that will recharge a hospice patient’s soul all safely under the compassionate care of experienced EMS providers and hospice social workers. An additional benefit is the recharging of the souls of the providers who offer their services to help. At the conclusion of Charlie’s outing, LifeCare provider Thomas McGowan said, “This was awesome. Sign me up for the next one!” Submitted by Sue Connors, LifeCare Medical Transport Page
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The Chaplain Connection Corner Submitted by Gary Dalton, VAVRS Chaplain
Parts of the article below spoke to me and maybe, just maybe it will speak to you as well. As EMS providers we are trusted by our communities and more importantly our patients.
Etiquette Toward Patients...From EMS World Patients always have the right to know what we know or don’t know. They have the right to know what’s being done to them, and the right to consent to or refuse care without coercion through intimidation, subterfuge or outright dishonesty. A great standard practice, better than explaining everything before you do it, is to ask permission. Otherwise, explanations are little more than threats. When you do explain a procedure, include family members who are present. Remember that family members are likely to be experts on the patient’s medical history, medications and allergies, and they are likely to have a vital interest in the patient’s well-being. Don’t make the mistake of excluding them, unless the patient wants it that way. Patients have the right to everything we would expect if we were in their position, including comfort, warmth, and physical and informational privacy. Patients have the right to be accompanied by any one of their choosing, or to be protected from anyone they do not want present at any time they specify. Consider including family members whenever the situation does not clearly interfere with your practical ability to provide care with appropriate dignity and privacy for the patient. Patients have the right to know the names and medical qualifications (including details of licensure, education and experience) of every caregiver. Wear nametags anytime you are involved in patient care. Patients and their family members have the right to know how to express unhappiness with your service, but never solicit their appreciation, praise or thanks in any way. Patients have a right to know the cost of their care and all consequences of their care-related decisions and requests. If you don’t have that information, refer their request to someone who has accurate answers. Patients have a right to know when their requests for medical advice may be limited by the medical qualifications of their caregivers. A good way to respond when a patient asks for your advice is to say something like, “You should get your medical advice from a doctor, not an (EMT, paramedic, etc.). But if you were my mom, this is what I would tell you…” Patients have the right to our best efforts to physically protect them from the effects of weather. That includes not only temperature control, but also the use of a physical barrier to protect their face from exposure to direct sunlight, wind and precipitation in any form. If any crewmember on a call is wearing a jacket, there should be a second blanket on the cot. Both blankets should be deployed as a matter of course on behalf of every patient who does not spontaneously decline. You could call that the two-blanket rule. Every patient has the right to a pillow. They may not be able to calculate dopamine drips, but they understand and expect ordinary amenities. When we ignore the importance of such things, we look like amateurs. Again, this article spoke to me which is the advice that I leave you with—Speak to your patient, treat them with respect and listen more than you speak. Official
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From the Auxiliary of the Waynesboro First Aid Crew Cece Mccormick and Jill Stachowski. Hello everyone! At our November monthly meeting we had elections for new officers for 2017. We continue to serve food for our monthly drills, decorated Christmas tree and put up the wreaths around the multipurpose room for the upcoming events. At Springdale we did not do bingo for the month of December as we decorated Christmas cards so that the residents could send cards to their family and friends. Other residents received Christmas mugs we had hot chocolate and cookies they had a great time. Several auxiliary members decorated unit 11 and we rode it in the Waynesboro Christmas parade. We served the lead lodge ladies night and several members rang the bell for Salvation Army and we collected $110.97. Great job to everyone involved. The crew treated the entire Auxiliary to a Christmas appreciation dinner. A local Amish catering service provided the meal to our members and the food was amazing. One of our fund raising activities is serving dinner to Vectors Industries for their Christmas meal which was a huge success as we had over 100 people in attendance. We had our yearly Christmas kids party and wow has our crew grown. We had 34 kids sign up and Santa was a little busy listening to their wish list and sharing some holiday sprit. We also participated in another fundraiser for the animal control group. Toward the end of the year we always have our yearly “New Year's Eve” party. It’s a great way to end one year and kick off the new with fun, food and fellowship. To start the New Year's off we hosted a blood drive in memory of one of our own auxiliary life members Martha Braden. The Auxiliary would like to thank everyone who donated at the drive. What a great way to start the year by giving a gift of life. We continue to do our monthly today drills, we have purchased new items for the kitchen; a Keurig coffee maker, spice racks ,Two baby high chairs and 812 outlet power strip. We have two more fundraisers, the lead lodge where we will serve over 119 people, and an all day scrapbooking party. As the winter months are coming to an end and spring is rearing its beauty, the Auxiliary from WFAC wishes to send Blessings to everyone. Be safe and Save Lives.
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PHTLS Class at Bensley-Bermuda Volunteer Rescue Squad Bristol Life Saving Crew's Advanced Life Support Competition Team earned 2nd Place in the State
Campbell County Rescue Lucas Training
Cave Spring Rescue learning the basic of ropes.
Snow Creek Rescue Squad Harrisonburg Rescue Squad doing what they do best.
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STAUNTON AUGUSTA RESCUE SQUAD AUXILIARY 2016 was a great year for our Auxiliary. One of the highlights of our year was being presented with the AVAVRS Auxiliary of the Year Award for 2016. One of the categories that our auxiliary was judged in was service to our community and squad. Our Auxiliary takes great pride in our work in the community. Some of our work in the community provided us with opportunities to partner with different organizations to provide additional support and assistance to valuable programs. Some of the activities in this area include a contribution To Sacs Of Love backpack program. The Auxiliary provided food, pillows and blankets to the Valley Mission, a local homeless shelter, and also supplies for the West Virginia flood victims last summer. A donation was made to the area food bank in honor of our Junior Squad for their holiday food drive. Auxiliary member Jane Drumheller made a quilt that was donated to our local hospital to benefit the Hospice Gifted Care Program. The auxiliary also had the privilege to assist Swoope Volunteer Fire Department to provide a comfort meal for a family and the department during a time when they were grieving the loss of one of their own . Our support extended beyond our local area to include contributions to support youth camp at Rescue College, as well as, sponsoring a family so they could attend the National EMS Memorial Service. The Auxiliary members continue to work together with the Squad on joint activities such as Squad night at the Staunton Braves baseball game. The Auxiliary provided a meal for the players and staff at the end of the game. The Auxiliary’s main fundraisers allowed us to present a check to the squad to go towards the purchase of a new ambulance and cardiac monitors. As we continue to work and grow our Auxiliary, we are reminded of those who have influenced and provided guidance to our organization throughout the years, past and present….Here’s hoping that 2017 year is even better than 2016!
The Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad banquet was held on January 14, 201Our new officers were installed. Kim Galloway, President; Debbie Rohr, Vice President; Judy Leach, Secretary; Paige Wagner, Treasurer; and Margaret Lyle, Page
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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes
I started out the last article by saying it was being done quickly, this one will be even quicker, thanks to the Editor reminding me that I had not sent in an article. I had just begun a report going to the President giving her a briefing of the session. My thanks to Kim, Bubby and others for coming to the session and visiting with legislators concerning the VAVRS agenda and also attending the Fire/EMS Legislative Caucus meeting in January. Here are a few of the pieces of legislation that VAVRS was involved with during the 2017 session. HB 2243 - Clarifies provisions of the Line of Duty Act, including clarifying that suspension or reinstatement of health insurance benefits begins and ends at the beginning of a health insurance plan year rather than in the middle of a plan year and recognizing current practice that the Line of Duty Act administrator provides materials for training. The bill codifies certain provisions of the Line of Duty Act which currently are in the appropriations act. The bill modifies the provision that would have disqualified, effective July 1, 2017, the surviving spouse of a deceased member who remarried from receiving health insurance benefits, by restricting the disqualification to surviving spouses who remarry on or after July 1, 2017. The bill contains an emergency clause. The summary is again self-explanatory, the addition to the bill being the reinstatement of surviving spouses, which is about 25, who lost benefits because of remarrying. This is the part that has been corrected as soon as the Governor signs off on the bill. HB 1480 and SB 1064 - Requires the Department of Criminal Justice Services to develop compulsory training standards for law-enforcement officers regarding mental health awareness. The bill also emergency medical services personnel, and firefighters other than volunteer firefighters to participate in a mental health awareness program created or certified by the Mental Health Work Group, established in the Department of Fire Programs. Both of these bills in effect did the same thing, but the summaries are different in that HB 1480 was referred to Behavioral Health. Both bills were left in the Mental Health subcommittee of House Courts of Justice and sent to the Deeds Commission on mental health. This was legislation that at the 2016 conference, the BOG’s voted to be included. HB 1728 - Directs the Department of Health to convene a work group to review the rules governing use of air transportation services, also known as air ambulances, in emergency medical situations and protocols for the dispatch of air transportation services in response to emergency medical situations and to provide recommendations for changes to such rules or protocols. The Department shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 2017. The purpose of the bill is stated in the summary. According to the Rules and Regulations Committee minutes, that committee will be included along with the Medivac Committee and other stakeholders. This was approved by the Governor on February 23, 2017. HB 1785 and HB 1789 - Includes privately owned vehicles operated by an operational officer of a professional or volunteer fire department in the definition of "emergency vehicle" for the purpose of exempting such vehicles from certain driving regulations when traveling in response to a fire alarm or other emergency (Continued on page 22)
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For Immediate Release: February 13, 2017
Legislation to Establish a National EMS Memorial WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston) and Congressman Peter T. King (R-New York) introduced H.R. 1037, A Bill to Establish a National EMS Memorial. Each year, the 850,000 first responders of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) answer more than 30 million calls serving 22 million patients in need of life-saving care at a moment’s notice without reservation. The men and women of the EMS are our country’s first line of defense in the prevention and mitigation of risk from terrorist attacks, man-made incidents, and natural disasters. This bipartisan legislation creates a National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia to honor the ongoing commitment and sacrifice of the EMS members across the country. “Americans rely on the courage and selfless sacrifice of the men and women of the Emergency Medical Services. I deeply appreciate their commitment to maintaining safety and security in our country. We cannot forget the risks that these first responders face from high injury rates to more than 600 professionals who gave their lives protecting their communities,” said Congressman Lynch. “I am proud to introduce H.R. 1037 alongside my friend, Pete King of New York, in order to honor the members of the EMS and memorialize the sacrifice made by first responders and their loved ones.” “The men and women of EMS put their lives on the line to save our families and loved ones. Unfortunately, too many of these heroes have made the ultimate sacrifice. I am proud to work with Congressman Lynch to make sure the EMS community is given the proper memorial to recognize their sacrifice and commitment,” said Congressman King. In particular, H.R. 1037 authorizes the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative work recognizing the commitment and service represented by the EMS under the Commemorative Works Act. The legislation notes that “the scope of responsibility assumed by the men and women of the Emergency Medical Services is broad and unique and their sacrifice and commitment in service to our Nation are deserving of a commemorative work that recognizes such.” “As a nation we rely on the men and women of EMS to respond to every one of our calls without hesitation. We know that our lives mean something to them, so much so that they are willing to give up their own to help us. We cannot ignore or forget the commitment, service and sacrifice of those who would give so much for others. All we want is to let them know that their lives mean something to us,” said Katie Orsino, Executive Director of the National EMS Memorial Foundation. H.R. 1037 is cosponsored by Representatives Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Daniel Lipinski (D-IL), Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Denny Heck (D-WA), Katherine M. Clark (D-MA), Timothy J. Walz (D-MN), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Kathleen M. Rice (DNY), William R. Keating (D-MA), and Joseph P. Kennedy III (D-MA).
2017 National EMS Memorial Service Saturday, May 20, 2017 Hyatt Regency Crystal City Arlington, VA This Legislative act is being introduced to provide for a permanent memorial to be constructed in Washington, DC that recognizes EMS providers who have died in the line of duty. The NEMSMF, like the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride are partners in the goals of the National EMS Memorial Service which has been recognized by Congress as the Official National EMS Memorial Service for the United States. Page
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(Continued from page 18)
call. The bill eliminates the current limit of no more than two flashing or steady-burning red or red and white warning lights on one vehicle owned by a member of a fire department, volunteer fire company, or volunteer EMS agency or a police chaplain. HB 1785 was the worst of the two red lights bills that came forward this session. Both bills allowed volunteers to have sirens in the personal vehicles, but HB 1789 was left in committee. HB 1785 basically allowed personal vehicles to have lights and sirens, be considered an emergency vehicle and have all of the exemptions granted under ยง 46.2-920. Final outcome was that HB 1785 only allows 2 light units to include the use of diodes, no sirens, etc., and the Governor signed the bill on February 23, 2017. These are perennial bills that VAVRS has to deal with on a regular basis. HB 1728 - Directs the Department of Health to convene a work group to review the rules governing use of air transportation services, also known as air ambulances, in emergency medical situations and protocols for the dispatch of air transportation services in response to emergency medical situations and to provide recommendations for changes to such rules or protocols. The Department shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 2017. The purpose of the bill is stated in the summary. According to the Rules and Regulations Committee minutes, that committee will be included along with the Medivac Committee and other stakeholders. This was approved by the Governor on February 23, 2017. There were a number of other bills that we dealt with and these will be discussed at the upcoming Board of Governors meeting. Some of the bills that VAVRS supported were left in committee, there is always next year. Now is the time to approach your legislators with the VAVRS agenda for next year. I again want to thank each and every one for their support and assistance during the session.
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The Faces of VA Beach EMS Career & Volunteers Official
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Photos Submitted by Bobby Hill
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Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue Steve Dove, President The Chancellor Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department announced their 2017 administrative and operational officers during the annual Installation of Officers and Awards Banquet in January. In addition, the department recognized James Woodard for 50 years of service. Mr. Woodard continues to serve the organization, and has been instrumental in past successes of the department, and in helping lead us into the future. Nicholas Briganti was posthumously recognized as Member of the Year and Bandon Murray was awarded the 2016 President’s Award. The 2017 officers are: Steven Dove, President Beth Addington, Vice-President A.P. Bullock, Secretary Hollie Williams, Treasurer Member-at-Large, Ryan Fines Member-at-Large, Vernon Kirby Chip Hart, Fire Chief Mike Passera, Deputy Chief Geoffrey Knight, Fire Captain Billy Harrington, EMS Captain Gerald Calaway, Fire Lieutenant Joey Hart, Fire Lieutenant Jacob Mahoney, Fire Lieutenant Brandon Murray, Fire Lieutenant Dawn Caruso, EMS Lieutenant Meredith Howdyshell, EMS Lieutenant Doug Lowe, EMS Lieutenant Sarah Rees, EMS Lieutenant Congratulations to all of our members who received awards for their dedication and commitment to making the community a safer place.
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Chancellor Volunteer Fire and Rescue also posthumously recognized Nicholas Briganti as the Member of the Year
In 2016 Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue helped celebrate 50 years of service by James Woodard. Mr. Woodard continues to serve the organization and has been instrumental in past success of the department and helping lead us into the future.
Bandon Murray was awarded the President’s Award for 2016. Congratulations to all of our members that received awards for their dedication and commitment to making the community a safer place.
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Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Announces Award Winners, Installs Officers for 2017 Colonial Beach, VA (Jan. 26, 2017) Sara Hunt – At its annual banquet on Jan. 20, 2017, Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (CBVRS) kicked off the New Year with installation of officers and presented a number of awards to honor several members for their outstanding achievements in 2016. The squad’s most prestigious award, EMS Member of the Year, went to Lieutenant Danny Stinson, a longtime member of the squad. Joey Straughan, who began volunteering with CBVRS and Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department when he was 15 years old, was sworn in as the squad’s new Rescue Chief. In his opening remarks to the squad, Chief Straughan shared his goals for 2017: To continue to foster good relationships with local fire, police and EMS organizations; to apply for several grants to purchase new equipment and CPR machines; and to schedule a mass casualty training session so that all area first responders are prepared in the event of a large-scale emergency. The Top Call Runner for 2016 was—once again!— Assistant EMS Chief Patricia FitzGerald. She has headed the Call Runner list since 1993, which is remarkable. Other top award winners included:
Chief’s Appreciation Award – Patricia FitzGerald
Outstanding Service Award – Luis Bermudez
Basic Life Support Provider of the Year – Joey Straughan
Advanced Life Support Provider of the Year – Jamal Harvey
Hudson-Costenbader Award for Outstanding Support – Wesley Melson Special awards to recognize five years of dedicated service and leadership went to Robert “Bobby” Rivenbark and Wesley Melson CBVRS presented three Eugenia Urbank Awards to citizens who helped to save a life in an emergency situation:
Lori Yano, Victor Wolf, Rusty Curley and Missy Hines for preventing a near-drowning in January 2016
John Burgess and Matthew Shoemaker for preventing a near-drowning in August 2016
Devin Bayse and Robert Townsend for performing CPR on a person stricken with cardiac arrest and helping to revive him in September 2016 (Continued on page 29)
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(Continued from page 28)
The Top Ten Call Runners were:
1. Patricia FitzGerald 2. Danny Stinson 3. Luis Bermudez 4. Sheila Monroe 5. Jamal Harvey 6. Robert “Bobby” Rivenbark 7. Joey Straughan 8. Denise Weaver 9. Jack Shelar 10. Charles Bowie and Donna Shelar Certificates of Appreciation for Outstanding Support and Service by Community Groups and Individuals were presented to:
The CBVRS Top Call Runners for 2016 are (left to right): Luis Bermudez, Robert Rivenbark, Patricia FitzGerald (First Place), Jamal Harvey, Joey Straughan, Denise Weaver, Donna Shelar, Jack Shelar, Danny Stinson. Not pictured: Sheila Monroe and Charles Bowie
The Journal
1st Stop Deli
Hall’s Supermarket
Colonial Beach United Methodist Church
Colonial Beach Public Schools (Jen Grigsby)
Colonial Beach Elks Lodge (John & Bobbi Barlow)
Colonial Beach Yacht Center
Westmoreland Sheriff’s Department
Colonial Beach Police Department
Oak Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Jake Marshall
“Our squad responded to 977 calls for service in 2016 and completed more than 2,000 hours of training,” said outgoing Rescue Chief Wesley Melson. “For the sixth consecutive year, we were recognized by the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads for our efforts to promote safety in the community. We’re very proud of the squad’s achievements over the past year.” “Congratulations to Danny, Pat and the other award winners who were recognized at the event,” said Chief Straughan. “We’re very proud of the squad’s achievements over the past year, which have provided a strong foundation for continued success in 2017. About Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad: Since 1950, Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad has served the Town of Colonial Beach and Westmoreland County. Currently, the organization has over 30 all-volunteer personnel that operate five ambulances covering 240 square miles and a 22-foot rescue boat covering the Virginia waters around the area. For more information, visit www.cbrescue.com.
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Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad (GMVRS) is selling 24 Cargo brand solid wood twin bed frames. All are in good condition and can be used as a single twin or twin bunk beds. Price-$75.00 per bed frame. If interested, please contact Pete Rockx, President, GMVRS atrockxp@gmvrs.org. VAVRS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Spring B.O.G. Meeting - April 1, 2017—Roanoke VAVRS Camporee - May 11-13, 2017 Rescue Squad/ EMS Week - May 14-20, 2017 National EMS Memorial Service - May 20, 2017—Hyatt Regency, Crystal City, VA Rescue College - June 9 - 18, 2017—Virginia Tech International Convention - June 19 - 24, 2017—University of Illinois, Champagne, IL VAVRS Conference - September 27 - 30, 2017—Virginia Beach Virginia EMS Symposium - November 8-12, 2017-Norfolk
2017 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS March 31, 2017 - Holiday Inn—Roanoke - 7:30 pm June 3, 2017 - Teleconference 9:00am August 19, 2017 - VA Beach Resort—Executive Meeting & Convention Meeting September 28, 2017 - VA Beach Convention Center 10:00 am October 1, 2017 - VA Beach Resort 9:00 am November 4, 2017 - Location TBD
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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, Tell me something funny! Needing Silly Humor
Is it true, that if I ate a lot of carrots, I won't need glasses? Danny Dear Mr. Wildman Sure, have you ever seen a rabbit with glasses?
Dear Sheila, I have listed some of my favorite medical puns:
“Conjunctivitis.com — that’s a site for sore eyes.”
Dear Rescue Ranger, Got one for you—A man tells his doctor that he isn't able to do all the things around the house that he used to do. When the examination is complete, he says, "Now, Doc, I can take it. Tell me in plain English what is wrong with me."
“URINE: opposite of ‘you’re out.'”
"Well, in plain English," the doctor replies, "you're just lazy."
“There was a sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center that said ‘Keep off the Grass.'”
"Okay," says the man. "Now give me the medical term so I can tell my wife." Laughing in Lexington Dear Janis, OK—here is one for you:
“Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He’s all right now.” “I once heard a joke about amnesia, but I forgot how it goes.”
“He was wheeled into the operating room, and then had a change of heart.” “I don’t find health-related puns funny anymore since I started suffering from an irony deficiency.” Dear Rescue Ranger, I noticed something strange in the hospital the other day. All of the nurses walk past the medication dispenser on tip toes and very quietly. Do you know why? Silence in the ER Dear Silence, So they won’t wake the sleeping pills. Dear Rescue Ranger, What’s the difference between a general practitioner and a specialist? Ed Dear Mr. Rhodes A: One treats what you have, the other thinks you have what he treats.
A doctor gets a call in the middle of the night from a man who says that he thinks his wife has appendicitis. The doctor replies that this is impossible, because he removed the wife's appendix 10 years ago. "Have you ever heard of anyone growing a new appendix?" the doctor asks the man. The husband replies: "No doctor, I have not, but have you ever heard of someone getting a new wife?"
Dear Rescue Ranger, We had a call at the home of an elderly couple and were met at the front door by the wife who immediately told us that the patient was in the other room but she wanted to alert us to the fact that he is very hard of hearing and that we would have to shout at him to get his attention. She stayed in the living room while we went to the bedroom to assess her husband. Speaking very loudly I asked for his name and chief complaint. The man said, “You don’t have to shout.” “I went to the doctor a few months ago and the doctor gave me hearing aids that allow me to hear 100% but I have not told my family.” I asked him, “If your hearing is perfect, your family would be really pleased that you can hear again.'“ The gentleman replied, “Oh, I don’t want my family to know. I just sit around and listen to the conversations. I've changed my will three times now!”
Dear Rescue Ranger, Official
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HAVING AN IN-DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR NEEDS AND GOALS IS THE WAY WE SERVE YOU The Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads is THE voice of EMS…. the advocate for our members, Virginia’s EMS agencies and providers. We link members and agencies for the purpose of sharing ideas, giving you a voice at the General Assembly, on state advisory boards, as well as on state and local committees. When our members have training issues or needs, they come to the VAVRS. When our members need assistance from leadership to budgets they come to the VAVRS. We help rescue squads throughout the Commonwealth thrive and succeed so they can provide prompt, effective patient care 24/7 in the communities they serve.
Celebrating our 82nd Anniversary