ROCKY HILL — On November 14, 2014 Aetna’s Jennifer Pasquale and Michael Glazier who were recently mentioned for excellent care in service in another blog post, received a Unit Citation from the Rocky Hill Fire Department.
The recognition stems from a September 24, 2014 response in Rocky Hill where the two witnessed a significant head-on motor vehicle crash on the Silas Deane Highway. Their quick action and excellence in clinical care were significant to the patient’s outcome.
Article and video appears on Fox CT.
VERNON– Food drives are now kicking off for the holiday season, and this year there’s additional need for help in Connecticut cities and towns.
Many who oversee food drives in suburban towns and more affluent parts of the state say the need for food assistance is continuing to increase.
In Vernon Thursday afternoon, a kick-off ceremony was held for the sixth annual Emergency of Hunger Food Drive. Fire officials, police, EMS, hospital staff, Rotary and others are participating to help make a difference.
Over the last five seasons the drive has garnered 147,000 food and personal care items, 4,710 turkeys and more than $96,000 in cash, checks and gift cards.
Last year, fire, police and first responders personally helped to collect 25,000 food items and more than $10,000 in cash and gift cards for many suburban families in need.
HARTFORD — On November 6, 2014, 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.
Ryan Dunn: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Ryan Dunn and I am 23 years old from Houston, Texas. I graduated from TCU in 2013 with a degree in Biology and Chemistry and the eventual goal to go to medical school. After working in the Emergency Department as a scribe for 2 years, I moved up to Tolland and got my certification at CodeOne in East Harford in July. In my free time I like to watch sports of all types, play basketball, and play video games. I am excited and grateful to be part of the Aetna team and can’t wait to work with and meet all of you!
Shahbaz Khan: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello everyone my name is Shahbaz Khan. I am 29 years old and live in Bristol, CT. I was born in Pakistan but raised in United States. I did my undergrad at Central Connecticut State University, from there I went to Atlanta, GA because I got accepted to Cambridge Allied Health for RT(T) Radiation Therapy. I took two years to complete the course and got my diploma. When I come back to CT I became an RA (Recovery Assistant) helping mentally disabled patient, not getting enough working hours I knew I needed to do something else. I was doing my independent studies to get licensed for RT(T) but I needed a profession which will help me gain knowledge, experience, and something I would love to do. My friend who works for Aetna told me “why don’t you come to Aetna and try working as an EMT”. I thought about it and gave it a shot. I was lucky enough to get a job in Naugatuck Ambulance and after getting cleared from the FTO’s I started to enjoy myself as an EMT. I learned new things every day. Every my partner and I did was exciting and I was hooked. I enjoy working in the medical field and try to stay connected as much as I can. The feeling of helping someone and being there for the patient in time of their need is the best feeling. In my spare time I love spending time with my friends. I am a people person so I like interacting with people and making new friends. I enjoy working out, going for a run and dance whenever I have spare time. I live life to fullest although sometimes life does pull you down, but you only get one life so enjoy it as much as you can. I look forward in meeting and making new friends with this company.
Brianna Koshmerl: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Brianna Koshmerl and I am 22 years old from Glastonbury Connecticut. I Grew up in Glastonbury and graduated from Glastonbury High School. I started my college career at UMass Amherst, But transferred for my sophomore year to UConn. While on campus, I participated in many extracurricular’s and philanthropy events, did research in biological sciences, and held student jobs. I graduated from UConn in May, 2014 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Molecular and Cell Biology. I just completed my EMT-B course this past summer, and are excited to begin gaining experience in the emergency services field. I want to attend a Physician’s Assistant program, and are using this experience as a gateway into the healthcare career with patient interactions.
Jared Kuhne: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Jared Kuhne and I am 29. Originally I come from northeast Pennsylvania, and recently moved to Ellington CT with my wife. I am a veteran of the United States Air Force, and served in Afghanistan as a translator. During my four year commitment, I earned my Bachelor’s degree and went on to continue my education as a pre-med major at the Central Connecticut State University. I received my EMT training in New York City with Empress Ambulance Service, before moving to Connecticut. I enjoy being a productive member of the community I live in, and I hope that I can make a positive impact here in Hartford. It is my hope to become a knowledgeable healthcare provider, and I’m looking forward to kick starting this career as an EMT with Aetna Ambulance.
Lauren Slebodnick: FULL TIME, EMT. Originally from Manchester, NH, I now live in Suffield, CT. I am 22 years old and I just graduated from Cornell University in May 2014 with a degree in Biology & Society. I was a goalie on the Women’s Ice Hockey Team while in college and I hope to continue my hockey career to the 2018 Winter Olympics. I am also a big Bruins fan. I took an EMT class over the summer and recently obtained my certification. I also volunteer with Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association and Johnson Memorial Medical Center. In the future, I hope to further my education by attending a Physician Assistant Program. I am very excited to join Aetna’s team and I look forward to meeting and learning from my fellow colleagues.
TJ Wain: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is TJ Wain. I am twenty-six years old initially from Waterbury, CT. I currently reside in Wolcott where I volunteer for the local fire department. I graduated University of New Haven back in 2010 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, concentrating my studies in Police Administration. I was active as an undergraduate DJing various events on and off campus as well as holding several executive positions in the Sigma Chi Fraternity raising funds for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation as well as the Children’s Miracle Network. As an alumnus, I continued my work as President of the New Haven Alumni Association until attending Paramedic school at Capital Community College, Fall of 2013. After attending paramedic school, I found that I truly enjoyed the impact that I was able to have on peoples’ lives. It may not necessarily be “providing that band-aid,” but providing information, with genuine care, for a more beneficial impact. “What’s a man’s worth if he’s not making the world a better place.” In my spare time, I still actively DJ events as well as enjoy gym, cross-fit and other endurance activities. I look forward to advancing my career in paramedicine and find there is a lot of opportunity in the field for growth and education.
Chris Willey: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Chris Willey and I am originally from New Jersey. I moved to Killingworth when I was fourteen and after college moved Manchester where I have lived for the past year and a half. I went to UCONN for Psychology and Anthropology. I had originally planned to go into accounting or business but realized early on that wasn’t for me. I started to have interest in the medical field my junior year and after talking to friends who were involved in it, quickly became interested in emergency medicine and EMS. In 2012 I took my EMT course at Hartford Hospital. The following year I started volunteering as an EMT, and began working in Hartford Hospitals Emergency Department as an ER Technician. I also work as an EMT in East Windsor. Currently I’m in my final semester of Paramedic School at Goodwin College. I am looking forward to starting my career at Aetna and am counting down the days till orientation!
Alex Zhakov: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Alex Zhakov and I am 22 years old. I was born in Chelyabinsk, Russia and I moved to the United States when I was four years old. Since then, I’ve lived in different parts of Connecticut and love the area. Currently, I reside in Farmington, CT. I recently graduated from Brandeis University in Waltham, MA with a Bachelor’s Degree. While attending college in Massachusetts, I completed my EMT certification and am looking forward to beginning my EMS career in Connecticut. When given the opportunity, I love to travel and experience new cultures. In my free time, I love running outdoors, working out at the gym, cooking, catching up on current events, spending time with my family, and playing with my dog. I hope to continue my medical career in the future by attending graduate school. I am particularly interested in the field of infectious disease and would love to someday have a career focused in this area. I am thrilled to be a part of the Aetna team and can’t wait to begin!
MANCHESTER — On September 26, 2014 the first 2014 Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance arrived at Aetna’s fleet maintenance area at ASM from American Emergency Vehicles in North Carolina.
According to Car and Driver magazine, “The Sprinter’s most visible change is its front-end styling, which adopts Mercedes’ smaller, Renault-based, Euro-only Citan van’s flashier look. The grille is more upright than before, and gets Benz’s latest take on its signature three-slat design. A new pair of headlights flanks the grille, and features the same eyebrow-like (LED!) turn indicators that have proliferated throughout the Mercedes lineup. A fresh hood accommodates the new fascia and headlights, and it sits higher than before. Inside, there are new seat covers and upholstery, the steering wheel is thicker, and higher-spec models even get chrome air vent surrounds.”
The most distinctive change thus far for the 2014 ambulance model is the new style light bar.
As of April 2014, all Ford ambulances (except for the bariatric units) had been rotated out of service and replaced with Mercedes (or Dodge-marked Mercedes) Sprinter ambulances. The unmarked 2014 ambulance will soon be sent out to receive the high-visibility Battenburg markings, rear chevrons and company logos. Operating fuel-efficient, safe and modern Sprinter ambulances is part of Aetna and ASM’s continued commitment to the communities we serve.
HARTFORD — During August 2014, Aetna Paramedic Matthew Carter and his partner Kathryn Stewart, wirelessly transmitted a 12-lead EKG to Saint Francis Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field.
“Another great job by your staff!! ” – John Quinlavin, EMS Manager, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center.
Cath showed 100% LAD Lesion which was opened and stented.
STEMI Transmission
| ED Arrival | 18:34 | Sat | |||||
| EKG Complete | 18:37 | ||||||
| Cath Lab Paged | 18:17 | ||||||
| Cath start | 19:09 | ||||||
| First PCI Time | 19:17 | ||||||
| Door to Balloon Time | 43 Min | ||||||
| Mode of Arrival | EMS | Other | EMS STEMI Alert | Cath Lab Activated | |||
| EMS Agency | Aetna | Lifenet @ 18:13 | Yes | ||||
(L to R): Aetna’s Jose Platero, Hartford Hospital’s Mike Zacchera
HARTFORD –As of August 4, 2014, Aetna’s Jose Platero has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves.
Jose’s preceptor was Paramedic Matt Campbell. The full precepting phase can take ten to 12 weeks or more as the paramedic is prepped for the realities of the field. As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Jose’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing Jose and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls.
Jose started at Aetna as an EMT-Basic in 2011 and graduated from the Bridgeport Hospital Paramedic Program.
On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Jose the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
HARTFORD — A plaque commemorating Aetna Ambulance and the company’s founding family, the Grady’s, was unveiled at a June 11, 2014 ceremony at Hartford Hospital’s Emergency Department. The plaque hangs in the ambulance triage area.
Remarks thanking the Grady Family and Aetna Ambulance for their contribution to EMS in the area were made by Chief Emergency Physician Dr. Jeff Finkelstein. Ms. Diane Evans, the daughter of Howard and Ethel Grady, was on hand to represent the family and accept the plaque. Photos and light refreshments followed.
Learn more about the history of Aetna Ambulance and the Grady family here…
(L to R): Aetna’s Chris Nelson and HH’s Michael Zacchera.
HARTFORD – As of June 5, 2014 Aetna’s Chris Nelson has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves.
Chris’s preceptor was Kevin Stock. The full precepting phase can take ten to 12 weeks or more as the paramedic is prepped for the realities of the field. As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Chris’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing Chris and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls.
Chris graduated from the New Haven Sponsor Hospital Paramedic Program.
On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Chris the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
HARTFORD — On May 29, 2014, four 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.
David Jackson: My name is David Jackson and I am 22 years old. I graduated from the Boston University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology in 2014. My goal is to go to medical school and to go into the field of emergency medicine. I took my EMT-Basic class in Bridgeport, CT in 2008 at the Bridgeport Hospital Emergency Medicine Institute. I started working in EMS at Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services, however, when I moved to Boston, MA for college I began working for Boston University Emergency Medical Services. In my spare time I enjoy scuba diving and boating on the Long Island Sound and I am very excited to start to work towards my Dive Master certification this summer. I truly love emergency medicine in all its forms and I am very excited to be one of the newest additions to this amazing team and to have the opportunity to work in your community.
Eric Marandino: My name is Eric Marandino. After being self-employed for the past 15 years (in the dental industry) I was looking for a career change. I know many people who are, or were EMTS and they all said how much they enjoyed the job. I graduated EMT last summer through Hartford Hospital. I feel very fortunate to have been hired by Aetna Ambulance and look forward to starting my new career.
I have trained in martial arts for 30 years. After extensive training in Tae Kwon Do, Hap Ki Do, Boxing, American Kickboxing and Jeet Kune Do, I began training Brazilian Jiujitsu 10 years ago. I have been fortunate to be able to teach, train and compete a lot in the past five years. I will continue to train jiujitsu for the rest of my life. Some of my other interests include mountain biking, hiking, cooking, movies and working on my house. I am an avid reader and I try to always be reading a good book.
Andrew O’Laughlin: My name is Andrew O’Loughlin. I am 21 years old, and I am from Hebron Connecticut. I am a senior at UMASS Amherst, where I will be graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology this December. I work UMASS EMS while at school, and I am a volunteer EMT with the Fire Department in my hometown. I have a passion for patient care, and I look forward to working with the team at Aetna.
In my spare time I’m fairly active. I spend a lot of time weightlifting, running, hiking etc. You will see me at a lot of events like the Spartan Races and Tough Mudders. I have also done a few events with GORUCK. They focus on team building, for long hours (24+ for my most recent), under heavy weights. I also recently became a certified scuba diver, and plan on diving the local area this summer.
In the future I plan on continuing my education. My plan is to return to UMASS after graduation to complete a second bachelor’s in Nursing. I’m excited to expand my role in the healthcare field, but EMS will always by my passion. I intend on staying active within the field after I begin my career as a nurse.
Tony Mazzola: My name is Anthony Mazzola, but you can call me Tony. I am 21 years old. I received my EMT last summer and have been working for Newington Volunteer Ambulance for the past six months. Even though I am relatively new to this field, I have developed a passion for it and I feel as though I have a lot to gain from it. I have just recently graduated from Manchester Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I am going to be continuing my college career and pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU). I love working on cars, particularly, Volkswagens. Yes, I am a Volkswagen guy! I am very excited to be a part of the Aetna team and I look forward to meeting everyone!
(L to R): Hartford Hospital’s Mike Zacchera, Shannon Whalen and Jennifer Pasquale.
HARTFORD – As of May 17, 2014 Aetna’s Shannon Whalen has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves.
Shannon’s preceptor was Jennifer Pasquale. The full precepting phase can take ten to 12 weeks or more as the paramedic is prepped for the realities of the field. As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Shannon’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing Shannon and her preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls.
Shannon graduated from the Goodwin College Paramedic Studies Program.
On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Shannon the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
(L to R): Halston Mendes, Matthew Campbell.
HARTFORD – As of May 15, 2014 Aetna’s Halston Mendes has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves.
Halston’s preceptor was Matthew Campbell. The full precepting phase can take ten to 12 weeks or more as the paramedic is prepped for the realities of the field. As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Halston’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing Halston and his preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls.
Halston graduated from the Capital Community College Paramedic Program.
On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Halston the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
HARTFORD — On May 2, 2014 Aetna Ambulance Service placed in service a new Paramedic Supervisor vehicle. The 2014 Ford F-150 was outfitted with a custom shelving unit, emergency lights, high-visibility Batternburg pattern livery and reflective rear chevrons.
The non-transporting EMS vehicle will be used primarily by the Operations Supervisors to maintain the continuity of day-to-day operations, respond to mass casualty incidents and support EMS staff in the field.
MANCHESTER — On April 28, 2014 three more blank Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Ambulances arrived at Aetna’s fleet maintenance area at ASM from American Emergency Vehicles in North Carolina.
The change will mean that both Aenta Ambulance and the Ambulance Service of Manchester (ASM) will be fully switched to Dodge and Mercedes Sprinters within the Type II category. This will leave only three Type III Fords for use as specialty bariatric units and none within the day-to-day fleet, a change several years in the making.
The three additional, unmarked ambulances will soon be sent out to receive the high-visibility Battenburg markings, rear chevrons and company logos. Operating fuel-efficient, safe and modern Sprinter ambulances is part of Aetna and ASM’s continued commitment to the communities we serve.
HARTFORD and MANCHESTER — By the end of April 2014 Aetna Ambulance and the Ambulance Service of Manchester (ASM) will upgrade to a industry leading medical device known as the Draeger Oxylog 3000 Ventilator; “the ventilator of choice for emergency and transport ventilation.” Better to have one, according to a Draeger tag line.
Aetna and ASM are entrusted with the safe transport of long-term ventilator dependent patients from premier rehabilitation long-term acute and chronic care hospitals such as the Hospital for Special Care. ASM also provides medically appropriate Specialty Care Transport services to the areas regional hospitals, transporting ill and injured patients to tertiary care centers in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Oxylog is capable of replicating complex, in-hospital ventilator settings such as IE ratios, CPAP, assist control, SIMV and more.
The use of Draeger Ventilators is part of Aetna and ASM’s long-term commitment to providing cutting edge emergency medical care and our vision of putting gold standard clinical resources and equipment at the fingertips of our skilled EMS providers.