MANCHESTER- On March 15th, 2018 the Ambulance Service of Manchester hosted a “Years of Service Recognition Dinner.” The event honored staff members with ten years of service or greater. Quite remarkably, over 50 employees received an award, including several in the 25-35 year range! Without the consistent hard work and dedication of ASM crew members, dispatchers, office personnel, and mechanics, the company would not be where it is today. Thanks for all you do!
MANCHESTER — On March 9th, 2018 the Ambulance Service of Manchester promoted three from within its EMT ranks to the post of Field Training Officer: Bianca Krzynowek, Ryan Bochman, and Kyle Caldwell. FTOs are utilized primarily to train newly hired employees in the performance of their duties as EMTs.
Kyle Caldwell: I have been with ASM now for about 5 years and an EMT for around 6. I started in EMS when I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go in my life or what I wanted to do. After a short stint working for Ellington Ambulance, I landed a job at ASM which has given me a lot of opportunity to grow. I have an amazing wife who has always encouraged me to better myself and been very patient and understanding with all the long days and hours I’ve put into this job. I am very fortunate to have both my wife and this job.
Bianca Krzynowek: My name is Bianca and I have worked at ASM for around 3 years. I am very excited to be promoted to FTO at ASM because I love meeting new people. I also think that knowing how to be safe on scene while doing this job is important and I hope to be able to instill that in my new fellow coworkers so that they can lead safe and prosperous careers in EMS. Right now I live with my German Shepard Toby and my horse, Abe. When I’m not at work I am running, at the gym, snowboarding, riding my horse, or hiking with Toby. I can’t wait to get started FTOing!
Ryan Bochman: I have been an EMT at ASM for a little over 2 1/2 years and an EMT for approximately 9 years. I have been married for almost 4 years and have just become a father to a healthy and beautiful baby boy. I became interested in the medical field at 17 when I volunteered for Haddam Fire Company as a firefighter/MRT-now EMR. I took great pride in helping people in what might be one of the worst moments of there life. Over my time as an EMT, I have learned a lot from those working around me, as well as assisting in the education of others and students. As I join the ranks of FTO at ASM, I look forward to training and assisting new employees as they transition to working in EMS full time. I look forward to the opportunity to share the knowledge I have learned over the years with newer EMT’s to make them the best medical professional they can be.
Aetna Paramedic Sam Dybdahl received a “Challenge Coin” from the gentleman (a Vietnam Veteran), pictured above, for the tremendous care rendered to his family member. Originally a military tradition, challenge coins are presented to individuals who have demonstrated a significant achievement. Sam has over a decade of experience as Critical Care Flight Paramedic. Sam is also an active member of the Armed Forces who has served overseas.
Andover Volunteer Fire Department
February XX, 2018
On Feb XX ASM Alpha 1 responded to [a residence] in Andover for a cardiac arrest. The crew was Cody Lemire and Valerie Adams. We just received a phone call from the patient’s wife. She is extremely grateful for our services. She is so thankful and said everybody did a wonderful job. I was hoping you would be able to relay this to your outstanding crew and thank them and all your crews for the wonderful job they do and the fabulous care they provide to our patient’s every day.
Regards,
Mindy Hegener
Deputy Chief
Andover Volunteer Fire Department
Aetna Ambulance Field Supervisor Bob Mara was interviewed yesterday evening by FOX 61 Reporter Jim Altman. In the segment, Bob discusses the necessary steps Aetna takes in preparation for winter storms to ensure that both the crews and ambulances are ready respond. In order to safely and promptly reach residents, Aetna increases staffing and strategically places ambulances at staging areas proven to reduce response times. As portrayed in the interview, crews will be posted at these locations even during the storm.
To watch the segment in its entirety, please click here!
Year one fundraising for Team ASM-Aetna was a great success. Through the efforts of employees, family members, and friends, a total of $1,175 was raised for Brain Tumor Research. All proceeds were donated to the National Brain Tumor Society. Thank you to everyone involved for your generous contributions and dedication to the cause. Please enjoy pictures from the event below!
Thanks to the support and dedication of ASM and Aetna employees, Team ASM-Aetna ha reached its goal of 15 participants for the CT Brain Freeze this coming Sunday, March 4th! For anyone interested in joining, the deadline for online registration is tomorrow, February 27th. All proceeds go directly to the National Brain Tumor Society.
Click below to join!
http://events.braintumor.org/connecticut-brain-freeze/
MANCHESTER — On Valentine’s Day, the staff and residents of Arbors of Hop Brook Retirement Community graciously hosted a “Love our First Responders” breakfast demonstrating their appreciation and respect for The Ambulance Service of Manchester, Manchester Police Department, and Manchester Fire Department. Members of each agency were invited to the facility for breakfast sandwiches, candies and a chance to socialize with thankful residents.
HARTFORD — On February 8th, 2017, eight 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.
Andrew Choi: PART TIME, EMT. I am 25 years old and currently attending Central Connecticut State University to attain my B.S in biology. I spent my formative years in West Hartford, CT and now reside in Manchester, CT. I received my EMT certification at Bristol Hospital EMS and volunteered for about a year at Newington EMS. I became an EMT to gain patient care experience in my strive to become a P.A. I am thrilled to continue my education in the medical field and very grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Aetna team.
Brianna Senato: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. Hi, my name is Brianna and I am from Maryland but have been in Connecticut for 5 1/2 years now. I first obtained my EMT in the ARMY and worked as an EMT in AMR Waterbury for 4 years. I recently completed and graduated Paramedic School at New Britain EMS Academy. In my down time I enjoy weightlifting and cooking. My future goal as a Paramedic is to be a Fire Medic, Flight Medic or Maryland State Trooper Flight Medic and I am excited for the opportunity and experience at Aetna.
Madison Nixon: PART TIME, EMT. Hello, my name is Madison Nixon and I am 22 years old. I recently graduated with a B.S. in Accounting from Bryant University and realized I wanted a career change. I am currently on path to apply to PA school and hope to gain patient care hours with Aetna Ambulance! I grew up and currently reside in Wethersfield, CT. I am also a medical scribe through Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center and I work in the Department of Bariatric Surgery. However, I hope to one day work in Obstetrics or Pediatrics. I spend all my spare time at the gym as I am currently training for a NPC competition. I am extremely passionate about fitness and leading a healthy lifestyle. For this reason, I chose to become a healthcare provider!
Chevaughn Smith: PART TIME, EMT. My name is Chevaughn Smith and I am 21 years old. I am originally from Jamaica, and currently reside in Windsor CT. At the moment I am finishing up my Bachelors of Science degree as an Allied Health Sciences major at the University of Connecticut. I became an EMT to gain patient experience to develop proper bedside manner to become a better care provider for my future plans. I hope to one day attend medical school and pursue a career as an electrophysiologist. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Aetna Team, and look forward for the journey ahead. I am also a die-hard giants fan.
Katherine Garger: PART TIME, EMT. My name is Katherine Garger. I am 21 years old and I am currently a senior at UConn majoring in biology. In the future, I hope to become a PA in either the NICU or pediatric oncology. I was born in Chicago, Illinois and lived in Arizona for many years before moving to Connecticut. In my free time, I like to read, hang out with my three dogs and take long walks on the beach.
Emma Becroft: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. Hi my name is Emma and I am from Wallingford, CT. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Biomolecular Sciences from CCSU. I worked in a genomics research lab throughout my time at CCSU. More recently, I went to paramedic school at New Britain EMS Academy. In my downtime I enjoy hiking and kayaking with my two German Shepherds, as well as weightlifting. I look forward to starting my paramedic career at Aetna.
Paige Vosburgh: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Paige Vosburgh. I am 24 years old and originally from West Hartford, CT. I recently finished my EMT course at New Britain EMS Academy. After spending the last several years a full time Nanny, I’ve decided to take the leap into the world of EMS. In my free time I enjoy snowboarding and spending time with my family on the beaches of Cape Cod. I can’t wait to see where this new path takes me and am thrilled to be a part of the Aetna team!
Brittany Lemire: FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, My name is Brittany Lemire and I am 22 years old. In May I graduated from Elms College with a B.A. in Biology and a minor in in Business Management. I received my EMT certification from CPR Training Professionals in South Windsor. My goal is to gain patient care experience before applying to PA school. I love to watch sports and enjoy traveling. I am excited to be a part of the Aetna team!
MANCHESTER- On February 5th, 2017 Cub Scout Pack 47 visited the Ambulance Service of Manchester for a facility tour hosted by Education Supervisor Melissa Osborne and Veteran Paramedic Greg Derosier. Troop members and their families received an inside look at some of ASM’s daily operations and learned firsthand what it takes to become a first responder.
MANCHESTER – As of January 30th, 2018, ASM’s Chris Myska 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 Tim Lachappelle and Paramedic Mike Levasseur. Chris was hired at the Ambulance Service of Manchester in July, 2017 and graduated from the Capital Community College Paramedic Program. He arrives to the organization with a great deal of previous experience, having spent 8 years in the US Air Force, where he serves as an Aeromedical Evacuation Specialist in the grade of Technical Sergeant. He is a combat veteran, having served multiple deployments in the Global War on Terror. He also brings the experience of a 5-year tenure as an Emergency Department Medical Technician at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in Hartford.
As with all precepting phases at ASM, his 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 Chris the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
West Hartford Fire Department
Department of Fire Service, Engine 1
January XX, 2018
To: Gary Allyn Chief, Chief of Department
I just wanted to send you a quick Email regarding a favorable response from Aetna Ambulance last evening. E-1 responded to [a nursing home] for difficulty breathing. E-1 and Medic-1 found the patient critical. Bradycardic, and No blood pressure and needed BVM assistance. Medic- O’hara dropped a few lines into him, intubated him etc…
The Medic on the rig was a guy named Preston who was FANTASTIC!!!! The EMT was great as well. If you have the ability can you please pass on the praise, it was a huge relief to have such a genuine crew show up with a truly challenging call that had so many problems to long to explain via Email.
Once again, thank you for the assistance and professionalism of your staff.
LT. [Engine 1]
For the month of February, Aetna and ASM will be ordering pins in recognition of American Heart Month. Crew members, dispatchers and office personnel may purchase a pin for a donation of one to five dollars. All proceeds with be donated to the American Heart Association at month end.
On March 4th, Team ASM-Aetna will be partaking in the 2018 Connecticut Brain Freeze. Those interested gain the opportunity to plunge into the ocean to raise awareness/resources for brain tumor-specific programs. Please consider joining the fun! For instructions on how to register, copy the link below and follow the instructions provided.
1. Select “Register”
2. Select “Join as a New Participant”
3. Team Name – “Team ASM-Aetna”
4. Select “Join” and follow prompts
http://events.braintumor.org/connecticut-brain-freeze/
Further out…
ASM/Aetna will be hosting an American Red Cross blood drive for employees at our headquarters in Manchester on Tuesday, May 1st 2018.
April- Autism Awareness Month
May- ALS Awareness Month
Below are a few recent quotes from the comment section of Aetna’s Patient Satisfaction Surveys. Keep up the great work!
Absolutely Amazing. I asked a million questions and they were able to answer everything and keep me calm.
Professional, caring, sensitive to my feelings, reassuring and kind.
Very kind and caring, comforting.
They were some of the kindest people around.
MANCHESTER-The results are in for the first ASM Coat Drive! Thanks to employees, family members and friends, a total of 26 jackets along with multiple, hats, coats and scarves were collected. ASM’s Laura McHugh was the driving force for this initiative. All donations were delivered to the Manchester Area Conference of Churches (M.A.C.C.) clothing store “Community Threads” located at 466 Main Street in Manchester. A quote from Laura, the event organizer is provided below.
Thanks so much to everyone involved! Year one turned out to be more of a success than anticipated. It’s amazing to see how your compassion for helping others does not end with patient care. Can’t wait for next year’s results!
