Infection control consultant Katherine West breaks down the critical distinctions between infection prevention practices in EMS settings versus medical facilities. She clarifies how EMS-specific CDC guidelines account for unique factors like ambulance ventilation systems, the rear exhaust fan and closed suction systems that impact airborne and droplet disease transmission risks. Katherine addresses the evidence behind mask and respirator use, emphasizing that clinical data since 2015 shows no cl...
Jul 01, 2025•30 min•Ep. 476
JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel sits down with occupational therapist Bonnie Ekman and paramedic leader Alanna Badgley to explore sensory modulation therapy as a breakthrough tool for first responders’ mental health. Bonnie explains how engaging all eight senses helps regulate the nervous system, moving beyond traditional talk therapy when first responders are stuck in fight-or-flight activation. Alana shares her personal experience and the positive feedback from EMS professionals who have ben...
Jun 25, 2025•22 min•Ep. 475
JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel hosts a deep dive into the mental health challenges facing first responders. Featuring Dr. Robin Jacobowitz, interim director at SUNY New Paltz’s Institute for Disaster Mental Health, and paramedic and union leader Alanna Badgley, the discussion centers around a groundbreaking 2024 New York State Mental Health Needs Assessment. The study exposes alarming rates of PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation—20% of EMS respondents have thought about suicide linked to ...
Jun 24, 2025•20 min•Ep. 474
The other day I was working an arrest and I watched the provider preparing to intubate take a big deep breath and hold it while they used their fingers to scissor open the patient’s lips and then introduce the blade into the mouth. They had not elevated the head to optimize the airway angles and ease the need for vallecula displacement. They just went right in, holding their breath, and immediately started to struggle and shake. I tapped them on the shoulder and said, “Hey, let’s bag the patient...
Jun 20, 2025•5 min•Ep. 473
Before you start listening this article, I want you to sit back, relax, and take a deep breath. How refreshing was that? That was a nice 21.3% (ish) atmospheric oxygen breath that your body just enjoyed. Please keep that thought in the back of your mind for a minute. We will revisit that. We will spend a moment on PEEP, not the delicious and iconic Easter marshmallow treats that have become a yearly staple for many, but Peak End Expiratory Pressure. For this bit of time we have together, we will...
Jun 17, 2025•7 min•Ep. 472
JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention Memphis (TN) Fire Medic Stephen Zachar breaks down how his department tackled the nationwide recruitment crisis in firefighting and EMS. Moving past outdated hiring tests, Memphis revamped the entire process by prioritizing interviews, valuing real-world experience, and replacing the traditional Candidate Physical Ability Test with a coachable physical fitness matrix. Stephen reveals how placing paramedics ...
Jun 11, 2025•48 min•Ep. 471
The JEMS Report: Women’s Health Challenges in EMS and Fire Service Culture Description: Stephanie White sits down with Stacee Ramirez and Dani Landholm to explore the overlooked health challenges women face in fire and EMS roles. Drawing from Stacee’s extensive study revealing widespread reproductive health struggles, silent miscarriages, and the cultural stigma around pregnancy in male-dominated emergency services, the conversation uncovers a deep-seated culture of silence and blame. Dani, a me...
Jun 10, 2025•43 min•Ep. 470
Not A-Fib Podcast : Gwenny Winkler on Critical Care, Coaching and Embracing Growth Veteran flight nurse and educator Gwenny Winkler shares her journey from accelerated nursing programs to helicopter EMS and becoming a sought-after critical care instructor. Gwenny opens up about the steep learning curve when transitioning from emergency department nursing to flight nursing and the rapid evolution of tools like blood transfusions and advanced ventilators in air medical transport. She dives into he...
Jun 05, 2025•58 min•Ep. 469
In this inaugural episode of the Chief’s Cadence, Chief Shane Wheeler sits down with FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito to explore effective leadership approaches in fire and EMS services. Drawing on over three decades of experience in one of the nation’s largest departments, Chief Esposito shares how leadership demands more than just command. It requires adapting styles to fit individuals and situations. From the decisive authority needed on an emergency scene to the empathy and authenticit...
Jun 04, 2025•34 min•Ep. 468
Managing pain in pediatric patients is a critical aspect of prehospital care. Yet, this remains a challenging area for many EMS providers. A new study out called “Barriers and Enablers in Prehospital Pediatric Analgesia” sheds light on the complexities of assessing and treating pain in children during ambulance rides. Led by Dr. Hoi See Tsao, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at UT Southwestern Medical Center, the research identifies key hurdles EMS workers face and suggests ac...
Jun 04, 2025•29 min•Ep. 467
Elevating EMS Education: Insights and Innovations from Industry Leaders Dr. Ted Lee discusses education as part of EMS Week. The discussion features Dr. Shira Schlesinger, Dr. Navin Ariyaprakai and Dr. Maia Dorsett They highlight the importance of transitioning from traditional, time-based training to a more dynamic and critical-thinking-focused curriculum that fosters professional growth and clinical judgment among EMS providers. The conversation touches on the value of accreditation, the role ...
May 24, 2025•25 min•Ep. 464
Celebrating Emergency Medical Services: Insights on EMS Recognition Day JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel talks with Dr. Thomas Lardaro to discuss the critical role of emergency medical services in our communities. Celebrating EMS Recognition Day, Dr. Lardaro reflects on the profound responsibilities and challenges faced by EMS professionals both in urban and rural settings. He highlights the importance of public understanding regarding the unique pressures faced by first responders and the need...
May 23, 2025•15 min•Ep. 466
Advocating for EMS: Shaping the Future of Prehospital Care Dr. Ted Lee talks with Dr. Nick Cozzi, Dr. David Tan and Henry Lewis. They talk about the importance of grassroots advocacy, exploring how every EMS provider serves as an ambassador for the profession. By sharing their stories and building relationships at local and federal levels, they emphasize the need for a unified voice to promote essential changes in legislation and funding. The panelists highlight the evolving landscape of EMS, dr...
May 23, 2025•33 min•Ep. 465
Dr. Ted Lee looks at the impact and importance of Save a Life Day for EMS Week. Featuring expert guests Dr. Matt Levy and Corey Richter, the discussion underscores the critical role of community engagement in prehospital emergency medicine. Both leaders share their extensive backgrounds in EMS and emphasize the necessity of equipping citizens with essential skills to respond effectively in emergencies, such as performing CPR, managing bleeding and advocating for blood donation initiatives. They ...
May 22, 2025•27 min•Ep. 463
Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Luke Estes, manager of Prisma Health's Mobile Integrated Health Program, to explore the transformative role of community paramedics in prehospital medicine. Dennis shares his journey from a young aspiring EMT in Missouri to leading a groundbreaking health initiative in South Carolina. The program, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2019, addresses various social determinants of health, aiming to reduce hospital readmissions and enhance patient care acces...
May 22, 2025•26 min•Ep. 462
In this episode of the JEMS Report, Dr. Ted Lee convenes a panel of pediatric emergency medicine experts to discuss the significance of EMS Week 2025 and the critical EMS for Children program. The panel, featuring Dr. Ann M. Dietrich, Dr. Kathleen Adelgais and Dr. Lindsay Jaeger, highlights the essential role of EMS professionals in providing pre-hospital care for pediatric patients, particularly in emergency situations. With less than 10% of EMS calls involving children, the discussion sheds li...
May 21, 2025•25 min•Ep. 461
Dr. Ted Lee talks with Dr. Douglas Kupas and Dr. Joanne Piccininni on the topic of EMS safety during EMS Week 2025. With decades of experience in EMS, both guests highlight the significance of prioritizing safety within the EMS community, stressing that awareness and proactive measures can prevent injuries and fatalities. They discuss the need for a cultural shift in EMS, focusing on safety practices such as seatbelt usage and risk awareness. The conversation also reflects on the tragic loss of ...
May 20, 2025•26 min•Ep. 460
In this episode of the JEMS Report, Dr. Ted Lee sits down with Shaun Gladney, executive director of the Bryant Gladney Foundation, a nonprofit established in memory of his father, a dedicated paramedic and educator who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. The foundation's mission is to empower future EMS providers through scholarships for paramedic education and innovative educational offerings. Sean shares his father’s impressive legacy in the field, emphasizing the importance of ongoi...
May 19, 2025•21 min•Ep. 459
JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel talks with Matt Philbrick, an experienced paramedic and wellness advocate. Matt shares his insights into the importance of mental fitness, resilience and the need for emergency responders to foster a supportive environment.
May 18, 2025•32 min•Ep. 458
When faced with the challenge of reviving a patient in cardiac arrest, paramedics rely on an arsenal of tools, techniques, and medications. Among these are two stalwarts of advanced cardiac life support (ACLS): amiodarone and lidocaine. Although both drugs have long been included in protocols as viable options for shockable cardiac arrests, a new study published in Resuscitation sheds fresh light on their effectiveness, offering compelling insights into why lidocaine might deserve a closer look....
May 09, 2025•35 min•Ep. 457
Lt. Holly O'Byrne from D.C. Fire & EMS joins the Not A-Fib Podcast to discuss their whole blood program. She talks about the impetus for the program, overcoming hurdles to getting the blood, and the training they needed to do before putting blood on the trucks. She also talks about their successes and the downstream effects of administering blood in the field. The episode wraps up by talking about her experiences as the planning section chief on the IMT at Reagan Washington International Air...
May 08, 2025•57 min•Ep. 456
When many EMS workers first enter the field, their focus is entirely on helping patients in crisis. However, as time goes on, the relentless demands of the job often push self-care to the backburner. Meals become whatever can be grabbed on the go, energy drinks replace proper hydration, and exercise falls by the wayside. This gradual decline in self-care takes its toll, as long, unpredictable shifts and high-stress environments leave little room for prioritizing personal health.
Apr 23, 2025•45 min•Ep. 455
EMS Editor-in-Chief Dr. Ted Lee talks with Dr. Kristin McCabe-Kline, a board member with the American College of Emergency Physicians and Chief Christopher Way, president of the National Association of EMTs. They explore the vital intersection between emergency medicine and EMS as they kick off EMS Week, discussing its significance beyond mere appreciation gestures like pizza and cake. The conversation emphasizes the transformation of EMS into a critical healthcare provider within communities, p...
Apr 22, 2025•26 min•Ep. 454
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 fr...
Apr 03, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 453
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.
Mar 18, 2025•32 min•Ep. 452
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-ma...
Mar 13, 2025•26 min•Ep. 451
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-C...
Mar 11, 2025•33 min•Ep. 450
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 insi...
Mar 06, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 449
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 pat...
Mar 04, 2025•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 448
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 emphasiz...
Feb 27, 2025•27 min•Ep. 447
