Aetna Visits Kids Charity Golf Event

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

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

Aetna Participates in Community Event

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARTFORD- On Monday, July 16th, 2018, Aetna Supervisor’s Bob Mara and Matt Campbell, along with EMT’s Alex Patetta and Shivani Patel were invited to attend an event at Templo Fe Church on Broad Street. The day encouraged kids (ages 3-12) to interact with EMS personnel in order to gain a sense of familiarity with first responders. Hartford Police and Fire Department are set to participate as well later in the week. Aetna staff members provided ambulance tours, posed for pictures and handed out coloring books to those in attendance.

 

Aetna’s Michael Bouley and Brandon Butler receive Thank You Letter

WETHERSFIELD — In late June, 2018, Aetna received another heartfelt Thank You letter directed to Paramedic Michael Bouley and EMT Brandon Butler. The card reads:

“Your EMT/Paramedic’s were very professional. They explained in full detail how they would carry me in a special chair down 14 stairs (I live in raised ranch). I felt very, very confident in their strength, calmness and positive attitude. If I have need in the future for transportation to the hospital, I would like your company to assist me. Thank you.”

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

HARTFORD — On June 25th, 2018, two EMTs, one Paramedic and one Dispatcher 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.


Hannah Knight: FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Hannah Knight I’m 24 (for a few more days), and I live in Norwich, CT. I have been an EMT and in commercial EMS for about a year and a half now and involved with several fire departments for the last 11 years! My goal is to start medic school in the next year or so. On my off time, I love going to the beach or pool. I’m very excited to start my career here with all of you!

 


Micah Davis: FULL TIME DISPATCHER/EMT. Hello I’m Micah Davis. I’m from West Hartford CT. I’m a volunteer EMT at Rocky Hill. Due to age requirements I’m blessed to get the opportunity to work as a Dispatcher at Aetna, and seek to extend my education all the way to paramedic school in future. My goal is to be the best part of someone’s worst day.

 


Monica Hildebrand: FULL TIME EMT. Hi, my name is Monica Hildebrand. I’m from Middletown, CT where I’ve lived for the past 16 years. I have been an EMT for 4 years. I’ve also been volunteering in Rocky Hill as an EMT for roughly the same amount of time. Additionally, I have worked at CCMC as an EEG tech and I’ve done home healthcare. Currently, I’m finishing up my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. My ultimate goal is to either go on to nursing or public health. I am very excited for the opportunity to work at Aetna!


Alex Patetta: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Alex Patetta, I am originally from New Jersey, but have lived in Connecticut for the last 5 years. I graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in International Business. I was a volunteer firefighter in New Jersey prior to coming to Connecticut. My future goal is to become a career firefighter. Outside of my intended career path, I enjoy focusing on a healthy lifestyle which includes working out and playing sports. I am very excited for this new opportunity as an EMT and look forward to the new experiences it will bring.

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

HARTFORD — On May 14th, 2018, three EMTs, one Paramedic and one Dispatcher 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.


Ashley O’Connell: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello, my name is Ashley O’Connell and I am 25 years old. I graduated from Adelphi University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I currently live in Plainville, CT, where I am a volunteer firefighter. My future goals are to become a career firefighter and a paramedic. I have 2 rescue dogs and enjoy running, hiking, and snowboarding. I’m very excited to start as an EMT for Aetna and I’m grateful for the opportunity!

 

 


Tori Thomson: FULL TIME, EMT. I am a recent graduate of UConn where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Master in Health Promotion. Throughout college and graduate school my interest lied in the area of food and nutrition so I also recently finished a dietetic internship to become an RD. However, as a former athlete and nurse’s aide I have always had more of a knack for hands on work. It was with this realization that I decided to take the EMT course at CPR Training Professionals in South Windsor. After a job search for both EMT and RD work, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to become a member of the Aetna team! As a lifelong learner, I can’t wait to see what new challenges await me at Aetna and what direction it will point me for my career.


 

Dennis Wynne: FULL TIME, DISPATCHER. My name is Dennis Wynne. I’ve been a Volunteer Firefighter for the town of Plainville for close to 13 years. I have been dispatching for the same Department for 7 years. On my off time I enjoy spending time with my family and taking small vacations when possible. I’m looking forward to working for Aetna and learning new skills.

 

 


Jayson Braman: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. My name is Jayson and I am from Wolcott, CT but recently moved to East Hartford. I attained my paramedic certification from New Britain EMS Academy and have been working for Wolcott Ambulance for the past year as a paramedic with medical control through St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury. Prior to that, I had worked three years as an EMT for AMR and Wolcott.  I also spent 6 years volunteering for Wolcott Fire Dept.  I aspire to continue helping people as I further my education in the EMS field.  I plan to acquire my Respiratory Therapist certification and one day become a flight medic.  In my spare time, I enjoy traveling around the world and being outdoors.


James Davis: PART TIME, EMT. Hello my name is James Davis I am a Connecticut native. I became an EMT because I have a passion for helping others. Along with being an EMT, I am also a career Firefighter. My goal is to expand my knowledge as an EMT and inter-grade that knowledge into my everyday life. I enjoy watching sports, working out, spending time with my family and traveling. I am overly zealous to be part of the Aetna Team!

Schedule of EMS Week 2018 Events and Activities

Monday May 21st

  • 1800: Johnson Memorial Hospital BBQ. CME follows BBQ at CMEC Ammpitheater (the building on the right as you enter the main hospital driveway).
  • 201 Chestnut Hill Road, Stafford Springs.

Tuesday May 22nd

  • 0730-1200: Hartford Hospital: Annual EMS Week Symposium, ERC 221. A multidisciplinary group if physicians deliver engaging , EMS-specific presentations. No charge, all level of providers are encouraged to attend.
  • To register please email David.Bailey@hhchealth.org.
  • Breakfast provided

Wednesday May 23rd

  • 1200-1500: Windham Hospital BBQ
  • 1200-1400: Hartford Hospital (outside of Conklin Building) Annual Cook-out.
  • 1100-1300: Saint Francis Hospital Lunch.
  • 1730-1900 Hartford Hospital (outside of Conklin Building) Annual Cool-out.

Thursday May 24th

  • 1500-1700: Car Seats and First Responders CME at 275 New State Rd, Manchester (must pre-register with Monica.Lucas@ynhh.org).
  • 1700-2000Ambulance Service of Manchester Employee BBQ. 275 New State Rd, Manchester.
  • 1700-1900: Saint Francis Hospital Dinner

Road Crew Raffle

  • Employees will be automatically entered into the process. Seven full days of raffling will occur, with two winners selected at random per day. Additionally, one Grand Prize winner will be selected at random on Saturday May 26th.

ASM Employees

  • $10/day for lunch, dinner, or ice cream at Dairy Queen on Hartford Road Manchester. Sunday May 20th – Saturday May 26th.

Aetna Employees

  • $10/day for breakfast or lunch at The Market Restaurant in Hartford.Sunday May 20th – Saturday May 26th.

If your organization, facility or agency is having an EMS Week event in the greater Hartford area and you do not see it listed here, please email it to a member of our management team, fill out the contact form, post it as a comment, or email it to us at info@asm-aetna.com.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s Thomas Winterbottom Completes Precepting Phase

HARTFORD – As of May 15th, 2018, Thomas Winterbottom 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 started working at Aetna about three years ago. After spending sometime as an EMT, I decided to start the challenge of paramedic school to further my knowledge in the medical field. I graduated from Capital Community College’s paramedic program this past December. I was eager to start precepting and utilize some of the new skills I learned. Special thanks to Matt Campbell for his patience and knowledge provided during precepting. I am excited to practice as a paramedic and continue assisting those in need.”

As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Tom’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 Tom the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s Sean Howard Completes Precepting Phase

HARTFORD – As of May 4th, 2018, Sean Howard has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves. His preceptor was Paramedic Matt Carter. Sean began working at with us in October of 2009. He offered the following sentiment regarding his time at Aetna:

“I began my journey into EMS at Aetna nearly 9 years ago, and have been proud to see my work family grow alongside my own. Having recently graduated from the Capital Community College Paramedic Program, I look forward to playing an expanded role in serving one of the finest communities in the country. “

As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Sean’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 Sean the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

ASM Host’s American Red Cross Blood Drive

MANCHESTER- On Tuesday May 1, 2018 Team ASM-Aetna hosted its first American Red Cross Blood Drive at  ASM’s headquarters. Numerous employees, friends, and family members participated in the day-long event. Program Manager and Coordinator Alissa Haight Aguda offered the following letter of appreciation to those involved.

“On behalf of the American Red Cross and the people we serve, I would like to personally thank you and all the employees at the Ambulance Service of Manchester for the support we received at our Tuesday May 1st 2018, blood drive.

We came close to our drive goal which was 25 units donated. At the drive we had 30 people register resulting in the collection of 21 units of blood. Excellent WORK! These units of blood will help save up to 63 lives and ensure a readily available supply of blood for CT hospital patients. You and your donors are true heroes!

Once again, it has been a pleasure working with you and I am extremely grateful to have your support of the Red Cross’ life saving mission.”

Alissa


Aetna’s Joyce Valentukonis Returns to Duty

HARTFORD – As of April 10th, 2018, Aetna’s Joyce Valentukonis has been cleared by Hartford Hospital medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that Aetna serves. Joyce returned to Aetna on October 4th and resumed her role as an acting Field Supervisor. As with all precepting phases at Aetna, Joyce’s final approval came from Hartford Hospital after shadowing her and her preceptor in the field as they responded to emergency calls .On behalf of the Aetna Family, we would like to wish Joyce the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.

A note from Joyce:

Hello. My name is Joyce. I am returning back to Aetna Ambulance as a part time Paramedic Field Supervisor after a 2.5 year hiatus of staying home with the kids full time. I previously worked at Aetna for 8 years in both a road employee and supervisor capacity. Despite working part time as a lab instructor at a local paramedic program for the past few years, I missed being on the road. I am thrilled to be back and look forward to working with everyone.

Aetna Appears on Local News!

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!

Team ASM-Aetna Participates in 2018 CT Brain Freeze!

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!

Team ASM-Aetna preps for the CT Brain Freeze!

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!

  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/

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: Aetna Hires Eight – 2017

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!