Author Archives: ASM-Aetna

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: ASM’s Matthew Burrell Completes Precepting Phase

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MANCHESTER – As of September 2nd, 2018, ASM’s Matthew Burrell has been cleared by Eastern Connecticut Health Network medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that ASM serves. His preceptors were Paramedic Supervisor Beth Sheils and Paramedic Dave White. Matthew was hired at the Ambulance Service of Manchester in December, 2017. He offered the following sentiment regarding his time at ASM:

“I began working at ASM last December after completing Paramedic school at Bunker Hill Community College in Boston. I was immediately impressed by the professionalism and technical proficiency of my coworkers and have been proud to be part of a company where the EMT’s and Paramedics are held in such high regard throughout the EMS community. Over the past months of precepting, I benefitted greatly from the experience of both of my preceptors who have each worked in EMS for twenty years. I am honored to have been mentored by such capable Paramedics and look forward to utilizing the knowledge I have gained from them while providing ALS service to the communities that ASM covers.”

As with all precepting phases at ASM, Matthew’s final approval came from Eastern Connecticut Health Network after shadowing him and his preceptors in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the ASM Family, we would like to wish Matthew the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

Praise for Aetna Paramedics

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Aetna Ambulance Service Paramedics Dan Hope Emma Becroft were recognized yesterday by Hartford Hospital for their outstanding performance while assessing and transporting a patient in late August. While in the midst of the precepting process, Dan and Emma responded to a call in the city. Their assessment included a 12-lead EKG which was indicative of a STEMI. The crew wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to Hartford Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. Both team members received jackets from the Hartford Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute (displayed above). Please join Aetna in congratulating Emma and Dan.

ASM On Hand at Farm Day 2018 at Fish Family Farm

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BOLTON — On September 1st, 2018 EMTs Mikhail Uddin and Kylei Koehler, from the Ambulance Service of Manchester were on hand at Fish Family Farm for the Lutz Children’s Museum’s Farm Day 2018. The festival offered an animal petting zoo, live bluegrass music, hay rides, face painting and most importantly, farm fresh ice cream.

ASM performed a standby alongside Bolton Fire Department. The standby served a dual purpose as the children were able to take tours of both the ambulance and fire apparatus.

ASM’s Kayla Fortin Commissioned in Army National Guard

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Ambulance Service of Manchester EMT Kayla Fortin has successfully earned her commission in the Army National Guard following successful completion of Officer Candidate School. On behalf of the ASM Family, we would like to congratulate Lieutenant Fortin for this distinct honor. Please see below for graduation photos and a brief quote from Kayla.

“I enlisted in the Army National Guard two and a half years ago as an officer candidate with no prior service. Officer Candidate School was 18 months long and we have finally reached the end and become commissioned officers. I will be branching medical services and will go to school for this next year.”

 

Extreme Heat Warning

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Occasionally we will share severe weather information consequential to public health, public safety and EMS response. Below is a warning issued by the National Weather Service.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM THIS

MORNING TO 9 PM EDT WEDNESDAY…

* HEAT INDEX VALUES…100 to 105 degrees.

* TIMING…Today and Wednesday.

* IMPACTS…The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during

outdoor exertion or extended exposure.

* LOCATION…Parts of the Connecticut River Valley and most of

eastern Massachusetts, especially in urban areas.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

Take extra precautions, if you work or spend time outside. When

possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or

evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat

stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when

possible and drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the occupational safety and

health administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks

in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by

heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke

is an emergency, call 9 1 1.

Young children and pets should never be left unattended in

vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during

warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal

temperatures in a matter of minutes.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: Aetna Hires Eight – 2018

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HARTFORD — On August 20th, 2018, two Paramedics, and six EMTs were added to the Aetna team. As part of our continued growth, Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Jaymine Patel: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. Hi, my name is Jaymine, usually go by Jay. I live in Manchester and  I am finishing up medic school at Capital. I received my Bachelors of Science in Biology and Psychology from UConn in 2015. I’ve been an EMT for roughly 4 years now and currently an EMT in Vernon, Manchester and Wethersfield and worked as a tech at Rockville Hospital. I’m very excited to start working for Aetna and being part of the team.

Michael D’Arcy: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello I’m Michael D’Arcy. I’m 22 years old and live in West Hartford, CT. I recently graduated from Western Connecticut State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Conflict Resolution. I played soccer in college and I also worked as the university’s mascot, Chuck the Colonial. My ultimate goal is to go to graduate school to be a Physician’s Assistant.

 

Brian Gauthier: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Brain Gauthier, and I am from Middletown, CT. I graduated from York College of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor’s of Science in criminal justice and minor in business administration.  My future career goal is to become a paramedic. In my free time I volunteer at Westfield Fire Department as an EMT. I also enjoy going to the beach, gym, and all things sports. I look forward to working with all of you!

 

Luke McNaboe: PART TIME, EMT. My name is Luke McNaboe, and I am from Burlington CT. I studied Environmental Engineering at UConn, and worked in hydrology research for 3 years. I had great mentors and worked on interesting projects, but I wanted a career where I could make a real positive difference for all kinds of people. This spring, I completed EMT training at Code 1 in East Hartford. I’m thankful for this opportunity to learn about emergency medicine and look forward to taking care of any patients I may have. In the long term, I hope to become a doctor. I’m excited to meet new people who are also passionate about EMS and serving the community.

Nicole Rosario: FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Nicole Rosario and I have lived in CT all my life. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Human Resources and an Associate’s degree in Medical Assisting. I worked in the corporate world for over 11 years, however, my love for helping people brought me into healthcare. My future plan is to become a nurse. When I am not at work, I am spending time with my son and daughter. I am looking forward to working at Aetna and the experiences it will bring me.

Wayne Buckley: PART TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Wayne Buckley. I was hired part time as an EMT-B. I have been an EMT with Rocky Hill for the past five years, and Glastonbury for the past year. I’m currently in the process of getting my paramedic, and I am eager to begin my career at Aetna Ambulance.

 

 

 

Chris Korzinski: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC: Greetings, I’m Chris Korzinski, 38 years old, have been an EMT for 17 years, a police officer for over 10 years and I am finishing Paramedic School in the next few weeks. I am fluent in Polish, have been married for 14 years, and have two boys ages 7 and 10. I look forward to making my transition from New Britain EMS and starting my new endeavor here at Aetna.

 

Adrian Lopata: FULL TIME, EMT: 

My name is Adrian. I went through EMT school a few years ago and since have volunteered at a couple of services and worked full time at St. Francis Hospital. In the future I am highly considering Paramedic school.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s David Rivera Completes Precepting Phase

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HARTFORD – As of July 19th, 2018, David Rivera has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves. His preceptor was Paramedic Greg Kendall. David started at Aetna in March of 2015 and graduated from Capital Community College Paramedic Program.

As with all precepting phases at Aetna, David’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing him and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish David the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s Jacob Brungard Completes Precepting Phase

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HARTFORD – As of May 24th, 2018, Jacob Brungard has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves. His preceptor was Paramedic Mitch Karr. Jacob started at Aetna in August of 2013 and graduated from Capital Community College Paramedic Program.

As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Jacob’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing him and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Jacob the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

ASM Participates in SW Journey Found Event

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SOUTH WINDSOR- On Thursday August 16th 2018, Ambulance Service of Manchester EMT’s Spenser Shirshac and Christopher Melite spent the afternoon enjoying the food and festivities at the Journey Found Summer Picnic at Nevers Park in South Windsor. The mission of Journey Found is “to provide behavioral, residential and other support services to individuals of Connecticut with pervasive developmental disorders and intellectual disabilities.” Spencer and Chris were able to interact with members while providing standby coverage for the event.

Aetna & ASM take in Yard Goats Game

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HARTFORD- Employees from Aetna Ambulance Service and the Ambulance Service of Manchester joined together on Sunday August 5th to unwind with friends and family at the Hartford Yard Goats game. Tickets are available to crews, dispatch, and office personnel on a first come first serve basis for the upcoming game on Wednesday August 29th for those interested. Thank you to Rich Luma for the photos provided.

Aetna Participates in 18th Annual Cruisin’ on Main Street Event

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MANCHESTER- On August 5th, 2018 ASM and Aetna’s lead in-house Mechanic, John Myles proudly attended Manchester’s 18th annual Cruisin’ on Main Street Event with our fully restored 1970 Aetna Cadillac Ambulance. With assistance from full time mechanics Haris and Greg, the vehicle was refurbished, shined and fired up to cruise down Main Street once again. The ambulance joined roughly 1000 other classic cars, trucks and street rods to help raise money for the Manchester Scholarship Foundation. Since 2001, the show has hosted over 14,000 vehicles and over 400,000 people have attended. As John explains, people of all ages enjoyed viewing the ambulance as the vehicle consistently drew a crowd.

 

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s Jayson Braman Completes Precepting Phase

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HARTFORD – As of July 11th, 2018, Jayson Braman has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves. His preceptor was Paramedic Matthew Campbell. He offered the following sentiment regarding his time at Aetna:

“I completed the paramedic program at New Britain EMS Academy and started my career in Wolcott with medical control out of St. Mary’s hospital in Waterbury, CT. Looking for a service area that was a faster pace to gain the most experience, I thought no better place than the capital city. I am excited to begin my career here at Aetna continuing to learn and grow as a paramedic. A special thanks to Matt Campbell as my preceptor for his help through the process.”


As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Jayson’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing him and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Jayson the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

A Breath of Fresh Air

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Recently the Ambulance Service of Manchester placed Dräger Oxylog 3000+ transport ventilators into service, replacing the Oxylog 3000 transport ventilators. The Oxylog 3000+ enables the Ambulance Service of Manchester to continue to provide the highest level of patient care while increasing patient comfort thanks to Dräger‘s Autoflow function. Autoflow provides better patient/ventilator synchrony adjusting flow to the patients need.

ASM continues our dedication to providing cutting edge emergency medical care and our vision of putting gold standard clinical resources and equipment at the fingertips of our providers.

Aetna Visits Kids Charity Golf Event

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In late July, Aetna Ambulance Service was on site at the Central CT Youth Hockey Association (CCYHA) charity golf tournament. CCYHA is a non-profit organization with the goal of assisting families in need of financial support. All proceeds from the event were donated towards the hardship fund.

Praise From Rocky Hill Fire Department

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Rocky Hill Fire Department

Deputy Chief’s Office

RE:  EMS Response– July XX, 2018

To: Joe Grayeb, Chief Rocky Hill Volunteer Ambulance Association

Chief Grayeb,

“I would like to take a moment and commend the EMS Staff of Aetna Ambulance for their response to the [recent motor vehicle accident]. While the outcome was not successful for all the patients involved, the care provided by the crews from Aetna Ambulance was outstanding. They quickly determine the needs of the scene, allocated units to each patient and had the most critical patients en route to the hospital in a timely manner under extreme conditions.

I most cases EMS crews are never around to hear the praise that they deserve. I ask that you pass this information along to the appropriate people so in this case they receive the recognition they earned.”

Sincerely,

Mark C. Gentile

Deputy Chief