Category Archives: Company Philosophy and Thought Leadership

Aetna Appears in Local News

Posted on by
Reply

HARTFORD- In preparation for Winter Storm Stella, Aetna Ambulance Operations Supervisor Matt Martinelli and EMT Kate Filosi were interviewed by FOX 61 Reporter Jim Altman. In the segment, Matt and Kate discuss the necessary steps Aetna takes to ensure that both the crews, and ambulances are ready to weather the storm. In order to safely and promptly reach residents, Aetna 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.

 

“First Responders always have to be on top of their game, regardless if a blizzard is on the way.”

 

 

Read the article by Jim Altman and watch the segment in its entirety by clicking below!

Bracing for blizzard, first responders get plans in place

A Special Note…

Posted on by
Reply

MANCHESTER – In early March, The Ambulance Service of Manchester received a hand written thank you letter addressed to Paramedic William Schnepp and EMT Cody Lemire. The note, as depicted below, is in regards to a transport completed a few weeks prior.

 

Your team was awesome! So prompt, efficient, knowledgeable, professional and funny! They took awesome care of me. Thank you! You should be proud of your crew. They Rock!

William was cleared for independent dispatch in August of 2015, and Cody is currently precepting as a paramedic. We look forward to continued success from both William and Cody.

Stryker Power Pro Stretchers Arrive!

Posted on by
Reply

MANCHESTER- On March 7th, 2017, The Ambulance Service of Manchester and Aetna Ambulance received 50 Stryker Power Pro XT Model 6506 Stretchers to be placed into service in the near future.

 

 “This industry- leading ambulance cot utilizes an innovative battery-powered hydraulic system to raise and lower the cot at the touch of a button.”

 

In addition to the numerous advances that come stock with these units, ASM and Aetna will be adding steering-locks as an after-market upgrade that will increase ease of use and maneuverability. The implementation of these new stretchers will help ensure the comfort and safety for both crews and patients alike. Installation for the ASM vehicles should be completed by the end of next week. Aetna should expect to see them in service in early April.

ASM Receives Award from Vernon FD!

Posted on by
Reply

On Monday, February 27th, 2017, The Ambulance Service of Manchester received a Unit Citation during the Town of Vernon Fire Department’s annual award ceremony. As noted in the photo, the accolade was presented due to ASM’s participation in the August 4th, 2016, East Street home explosion. Along with multiple other agencies, ASM was called upon to provide mutual aid. Paramedic Greg Derosier and partner EMT John Bush, along with Paramedic Todd Marshall and partner EMT Stacy DeBarge responded to the scene to provide care and rapid transport to the critically injured residents. The outcome of the incident demonstrates the true benefit that can occur when members of the first responder community work together.

 

As provided within the citation:

“Your department’s participation in this operation will not be forgotten and appreciated through the fruitful lives that the trapped residents now have the opportunity to fulfill.”

Aetna’s Bob Mara Promoted to Field Supervisor

Posted on by
Reply

HARTFORD- On February 17th, 2017, Aetna’s Bob Mara was promoted to the position of Field Supervisor.

Bob is a graduate of Assumption College in Worcester, MA where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology and Sociology. He pursued a certification in Advanced Personal Training following graduation, and eventually assumed ownership of a gym in West Hartford. In addition to concentrating on Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Bob had the opportunity to work with professional athletes, and prepare members for fire and police physical agility testing.

In 2006, after 20 years in personal training and 10 years as a volunteer EMT in his hometown, Bob joined Aetna as a full time employee. He has continued to advance his education by taking numerous courses in the study of biology, chemistry and mathematics. He has persistently demonstrated his commitment and value to the company by becoming cross-trained as a Dispatcher, assisting new employees as Field Training Officer, and serving as a Union Steward mediating conversations between employees and management.

On behalf of the Aetna family, we would like to congratulate Bob on his promotion and look forward to great things from him.

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

Posted on by
Reply

HARTFORD — On February 20, 2017, five 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.

Amy Lee: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Amy Lee. I am 22 years old, and a UCONN student pursuing a B.S. in Molecular and Cell Biology. Currently, I am taking some time off to work in EMS. I have been working as an EMT instructor for over a year, but I am still relatively new to working in the field. I completed my EMT course in NYC about two years ago. I plan on applying to medical school or PA school within the next two years.

 Stuart Buchanan: FULL TIME, EMT. I am 24 years old, currently living in Windsor, CT. I’ve lived in Connecticut all my life and I am proud to call it home. I enjoy going to the gym, biking, swimming, the occasional video game or two, and traveling when I can find the time. I’m currently looking to get into martial arts and I am learning the German language. I attended Capital Community College, where I enrolled in their EMT course and loved it from the start. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the support that EMS brings to a community. In addition, the job has turned out to be very rewarding and it’s nice to occasionally put a smile on someone’s face when they see you arrive. I hope someday to be able to provide even more and become a Paramedic when the time and experience comes. I’ve been volunteering at Windsor Ambulance for about 7 months, and can’t wait to get started working in the city. I look forward to my new career at Aetna Ambulance and I am happy to be a part of such an amazing team!

Ryan Jano: FULL TIME, EMT. I’m Ryan Jano, full-time EMT new hire.I am 21 years old from Simsbury, CT. I have been in my town’s volunteer fire company since I was 15. I have been in EMS since I was a senior in high school. I plan on going to the Capitol Community College Paramedic Science Program. Outside of work, I enjoy fishing, working on and modifying cars, hiking, and weight lifting.

Kate Filosi: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello! My name is Kate Filosi and I am 23 years old.  I am from Killingworth, a small town down by the shoreline. I attended Michigan State University, where I majored in Kinesiology and minored in Health Promotion.  While at MSU, I competed for the Women’s Gymnastics team and absolutely loved my time as a Spartan.  Over the summer, I completed the accelerated EMT-B program at Code One Solutions in East Hartford and became nationally certified.  I am thrilled to begin learning from the Aetna team, and look forward to gaining experience in the EMS field. In the future, I hope to further my education by attending a Physician Assistant program and am especially interested in Emergency Medicine and Orthopedics.

Brandon Butler: FULL TIME, EMT. I’m 24 years old. I’m originally from Plainville, CT where I was an active firefighter from 2012 until October 2016. I then moved to East Hampton, CT with my wife and our two kids where I have been active with their fire department, as well as their EMS. I took my EMT course at Code 1 training Solutions in East Hartford. My long term goal for the future is to become a fire/medic or flight medic.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Seven – 2017

Posted on by
Reply

MANCHESTER — On February 23, 2017 seven EMTs were added to the ASM 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.

William Lund:  FULL TIME, EMT. My name is William Lund and I am 25 years old. I am originally from Monson, MA. I was a four year college athlete at Westfield State University (soccer), and currently I am an Active Air Force Reservist, serving as a Medical Technician. It is through the Air Force that  I received my EMT certification. My hobbies include anything outdoors but specifically fishing, camping, snowboarding, soccer, and corn hole.

Jenna Kinghorn:  FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Jenna Kinghorn. I am twenty-one years old. My interest in EMS came about when I started school, still not knowing what I really wanted to be, or what I wanted to do with my life. I began volunteering at Manchester 8th District Fire Department and quickly realized that I was more drawn to the medical calls. Shortly after, I enrolled in Hartford Hospital’s accelerated EMT program, and I knew I made the right decision. I immediately established a strong passion for emergency medicine. I have spent the past few months working in the Emergency Department at Hartford Hospital and while I loved the fast paced work environment, I am very excited to experience the first responder side of patient care through my role at ASM. My future goal is to become a K9 Officer. I believe ASM will help me achieve this goal by the experience I will be gaining in emergent situations, and provide me with the confidence and skill set needed for public safety. I am grateful for my opportunity to work at ASM, and I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the team.

Chris Dibenedetto:  FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Chris Dibenedetto I am 28 yrs, old, and from Manchester. I started working in the medical field as a Medical Assistant in 2010 at a doctors office. From there I took a job at ST. Francis Hospital. I received my EMT License in the summer of 2016, and started working as an ER Tech at the hospital. What made me want to become an EMT is the fact that I like being hands on with patients, and out in the field when a patient calls for help. A few hobbies of mine are being outdoors in the summer time, hanging out with my dog, or working on my car and traveling to different states to be in shows.

Orlando Diaz:  FULL TIME, EMT. Hello, my name is Orlando Diaz I’m 22 years old. I currently live in Meriden. I’m a Volunteer Firefighter/EMT for the town of South Meriden. I’ve been there for over a year now. That’s where I received my experience so far as an EMT. I joined the South Meriden Fire Department to become a career firefighter one day, but the more EMS calls I go on, the more I fall in love with EMS. Eventually, I’m hoping to become a Paramedic. I love helping others, I’m a people person. Making people smile makes my day a lot better. I’m thankful ASM has given me a chance to get the EMT experience I need to become a Paramedic one day. I’m looking forward to learning and contributing as much as I can to ASM, and all of our communities.

Elizabeth Dowdy:  FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Liz Dowdy.  I am 24 years old, and originally from Wethersfield, but currently live in Rocky Hill, CT.  I have worked as a waitress for five years and have been coaching the Wethersfield High School Gymnastics team for the past two years while going to school.  During my time in college, I studied Criminal Justice for three years and decided to expand my education in Emergency Services and obtain my EMT certification.  I took my EMT class in the Fall of 2016 in East Hartford, and developed a strong interest in EMS.  I am beyond grateful to have this incredible opportunity to not only work for such a great company as ASM, but to also gain new experiences while caring for the community.

Kaitlyn Duley:  FULL TIME, EMT. I am 25 years old and a student at Capital Community College where I am working towards my nursing degree.  When I found out that my school offered an EMT-B program, I thought that it would be a great opportunity for me.  I quickly fell in love with emergency services, and I am thrilled to become a part of the ASM team!  In my free time I enjoy riding my horse Mark, and spending time with my family.  I am a lover of nature and being outdoors, and basically anything to do with animals!

Brian Silver Jr:  FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Brian Silver Jr.  I am 24 years old.  I was born and raised in Michigan. I moved to the East Coast in 2011 and then moved to Connecticut in 2014. I currently live in Ellington, CT.  I took my EMT class in the winter of 2015 at CPR Training Professionals in South Windsor, CT.  I graduated from my class in the spring of 2016. Once I completed the class, I went on to be certified in the state of Connecticut. After earning my certifications, I started volunteering for the Somers Fire Department. I one day hope to become a paramedic, and further my career in EMS and emergency medicine. I am looking forward to joining the team here at ASM. In my free time I enjoy going for walks, spending time with my wife, reading and anything outdoor related.

ASM Presents to East Hartford Rotary Club

Posted on by
Reply

EAST HARTFORD- On February 15th, ASM employees were invited to attend East Hartford Rotary Club’s weekly meeting and present as guest speakers to the group. Recognizing the longtime service to the community of East Hartford, the club reached out and requested ASM share insight on the history and progression of the company, as well as, its continued relationship and dedication to the community.

Founded in 1905, the mission of Rotary International is to “provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.” Over 110 years later, Rotary has developed into a global network with greater than 35,000 clubs worldwide. With the motto “Service Above Self,” promoting peace, fighting disease, creating clean water and sanitation programs, and supporting education are only a few of the challenging missions Rotary members tackle on a consistent basis across the globe.

East Hartford Rotary Club was chartered on February 23, 1928. 41 year member Dan Firestone graciously introduced ASM members during the meeting demonstrating the club’s true appreciation for the Ambulance Service of Manchester. Mr. Firestone conveyed the gratitude the club holds by referring to ASM as the “all too often overlooked members of the first responder community.”

 

“Love our First Responders”

Posted on by
Reply

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 members of The Ambulance Service of Manchester, Manchester Police Department, and Manchester Fire Department. Activity Director Laurie Robinson organized the event, and offered the following sentiment: “Thank you for your prompt, caring, professional, unselfish and noble actions. We respect and appreciate what you do for our community. Our hearts are thankful for your extraordinary efforts.” Included in the picture to your left are excited and grateful residents, members of the Arbors staff, Manchester Mayor Jay Moran, Police Chief Marc Montminy, Fire Chief David Billings, and EMT’s Sean Gregg and Elizabeth Miller from ASM.

Provider Wellness

Posted on by
Reply

Below is a link to an article published in JEMS Magazine. Written by 25 year veteran paramedic Bryan Fass, the piece tackles the important, yet often overlooked topic of physical fitness within EMS. Understanding the daily challenge of balancing work, family, finances, and health/wellness, Fass introduces what he calls “The Change Equation,” offering ideas on how to get motivated, form positive habits, and produce long-lasting behavioral changes.

In addition, Fass dispels some common myths that act as barriers to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He even offers a sample training routine with detailed steps and photos demonstrating safe and effective body mechanics.

Check It Out!

 

Mercedes Ambulances Arrive for Duty at Aetna and ASM

Posted on by
Reply

 

MANCHESTER — Recently, Aetna and ASM took delivery of seven Mercedes Sprinter Ambulances from American Emergency Vehicles (AEV). In an effort to keep up with the latest advancements in patient and provider safety, each new ambulance has arrived equipped with Stryker Performance-Load Cot Fastener Systems. In addition to securing the stretcher during transport, these devices offer guided loading and unloading, to increase both efficiency and safety.

 

A Special Note…

Posted on by
Reply

 

GLASTONBURY – In early January, The Ambulance Service of Manchester received a hand written thank you letter addressed to Paramedic Robert Balkun and EMT Stephanie Boutot. The note, as depicted below, is in regards to a transport completed a few days prior.

 

Please thank the team that transported my husband from Glastonbury to St. Francis. Their knowledge and expertise, I am sure, saved his life. We are deeply appreciative and thankful.

“Although I was nervous and upset, they helped to calm me…”

Posted on by
Reply

kenya-letter-of-praise-092016

MANCHESTER – In late September Ambulance Service of Manchester received a letter of praise for Paramedic Kenya Russell and her EMT partner Robert Grzywinski from a patient they transported during an inter-facility transfer.

 The letter reads:

“I would like to take this opportunity to let you know the two people who transported me from Windham Hospital to Hartford Hospital on [Date in August] were wonderful to me.

Although I was nervous and upset, they helped to calm me, and put me at ease.

If I remember, the lady’s name was Kenya.  She asked me what kind of music I wanted to hear.  I said off the top of my head Vienna Waltzes and low and behold she played a [song] which made me smile.

Those two people are certainly in the right line of work.  I will never forget their kindness.”

 

Words That Describe Us: Volume 87

Posted on by
Reply

Aetna Ambulance Service, Inc. - Ambulance Service of Manchester, LLC.MANCHESTER and HARTFORD — Aetna Ambulance and ASM send Patient and Customer Satisfaction Surveys to a random sampling of patients who have received emergency or STAT inter-facility services from our companies.

The final part of the survey asks that the respondent, “Please use a word or phrase to describe us and/or the ambulance crew.”

Some of the most recent answers and responses provided in the survey responses include the following quotes:

  • Professional. Thank you.
  • Skilled, compassionate, quick.
  • Friendly.
  • [Crew] were polite and professional. Set me at ease and kept me informed. (16-47073; J. Traber, M. Uddin).
  • Very good.
  • Staff was extremely professional, showed empathy and helped calm everyone involved. (16-50087; E. Burgess, K. Twohig with Manchester Fire Rescue EMS).
  • K and her partner were excellent, they were great at taking professional care of me. (16-53556; K. Russell, R. Jones).
  • Excellent – pleasant yet professional.
  • Life savers.
  • The ambulance crew were very kind and professional.
  • The person who rode with me was great – definitely put me at ease. (16-53409; R. Bilodeau).
  • Courteous + compassionate.
  • The ambulance crew were very caring and allayed my mother’s fears about the pain upon moving her. (16-25719; M. Pacheco, K. Durand).
  • Professional x 3.
  • Excellent.
  • Attentive Compassionate Friendly.
  • Excellent, capable, and compassionate.
  • They were terrific.
  • Very well trained + friendly – Great Job.
  • Very professional.
  • Impressive, well done.
  • Professional.
  • M was friendly, concerned and informed. I would like you to acknowledge M. for his good service. I would have never been able to get to hospital. I had blacked out when I hit my head and was in shock. M was excellent. (16-57541; M. Campbell).
  • Courteous, professional, friendly. Your staff helped ease my fears during an incredibly stressful event. I am grateful! (16-59663; J. Craig, A. Hernandez with East Hartford Fire Department).
  • Good people.

Praise for an MFRE and ASM Response

Posted on by
Reply

Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance ASM FMANCHESTER — In August of 2016 ASM received an email from a patient in Manchester for a response in July. In it she praised the care she received from ASM’s Luke Zalewski and Sean McNeff working with Manchester Fire Rescue EMS (MFRE) firefighter-paramedics. The email read as follows:

The ambulance crew was so kind to me I have been wanting to send them a thank you note. I was in so much pain when they arrived at my house, and as a young woman I was worried they might not take my complaints seriously, but they did. When they arrived I was in so much pain I could barely stand up. They helped me out of the house, but they also went the extra mile of reassuring me that my two cats did not get out of the house when they left the door open. They described both cats to me and said they had seen them both go into the basement. This really helped me to relax  in a difficult situation. They could have just told me not to worry about it, but they took all of my concerns seriously.

On the way to the hospital they administered medication in an IV that helped my pain decrease. I was scared when I arrived at the hospital because I was alone but they reassured me they would not leave me by myself. I typically use alternative medicine because I have previously had many negative experiences with the conventional medical system, but this was not one of them. I am so grateful I called that day and so grateful that the crew treated me with so much care and respect. I felt they really went above and beyond to make sure that I felt as comfortable and safe as possible. What wonderful people! The doctors believe I had a ruptured cyst and I am feeling better now. Thank you so much!

[This redacted and de-identified story and commentary appears with the patient’s express permission]