Category Archives: ASM Company News

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

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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

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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”

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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.

Words That Describe Us: Volume 90

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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:

  • Excellent service from all – Thanks so much. You’re helpful.
  • Caring.
  • Very attentive and kind.
  • Excellent x 2.
  • Professional and caring.
  • Couldn’t have been cared for or treated better.
  • Good. It is the best service in Town. Keep it up.
  • Compassionate.
  • The crew was professional, concerned, engaged and courteous. Under circumstances I felt secure being cared for by M and K. (16-65719; K. Russell, M. Hoyt).
  • You were all very kind and helpful. No one could do any better. (16-61175; A. Linardo, R. Fraley).
  • Excellent care!
  • Caring professionals.
  • Very caring and polite.
  • Professional.
  • I appreciate the compassion and care that was shown. The ambulance crew was fantastic. Thank you to each of them. (16-63448 R. Buechele, H. Digirolamo)
  • Seemed professional and competent.
  • Compassionate
  • Compassionate, professional, calming.
  • The ambulance crew- I believe the driver’s name was William and the one with me was Cory. They were both wonderful to me. (16-64241 W. Schnepp, C. Lemire).
  • Very professional and caring.
  • Very Professional
  • Professional
  • Kind
  • Excellent and caring people. Thank you again.
  • Very good
  • Professional and respectful
  • Prompt, Professional
  • Efficient and Professional
  • The best, guys were wonderful to me! (16-67722 M. Traber, S. Debarge).
  • Professional and caring
  • Friendly, supportive
  • Matt and Kat were excellent in every aspect of performing their jobs. And their relationship with ER staff was exceptional. They were clearly highly regarded. (16-69636 M. Carter, K. Stewart).
  • As an RN I was happy with the care given to me
  • Kenya was excellent.
  • Very Professional. Listened and had a caring manner.
  • Very attentive
  • Dedicated. This was my first ambulance experience and I was very impressed and satisfied. (16-68246;  M. Levasseur, J. Hornish).
  • Friendly and competent.
  • Don’t know the lady’s name who cared for me. She was excellent.  Thank you. (16-68616; M. Carter, T. Webster).

Mercedes Ambulances Arrive for Duty at Aetna and ASM

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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…

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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.

Annual CCMC, CSP, ASM & Aetna Ambulance Toy Drive

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The 2016 Toy Drive was again a great success. Below you will find a collage of pictures from the days spent collecting toys for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

ASM’s Josh Traber Promoted to Field Supervisor

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MANCHESTER — On December 29, 2016, ASM’s Josh Traber was promoted to the position of Field Supervisor. His remarkable dedication to both his patients and co-workers has been consistent throughout his career at ASM. He has developed into a role model for health care professionals and continues to positively influence everyone he interacts with.

Josh expressed his gratitude for the well-deserved promotion by stating the following:

“I just wanted to take a minute to thank everyone for welcoming me in my new role as supervisor. I have worked for ASM for 17 years and have performed duties ranging from dispatcher to Paramedic Preceptor. ASM is known for exceptional patient care, with outstanding professionalism. These are the core values I hope to continue in my new role.
For those of you I haven’t worked with, I look forward to getting to know you in the near future. Please feel free to let me know how I can assist you with any problems you may be encountering.”

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

 

A Warm Thank You for Ryan McConville

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South Windsor –  In early December, Ambulance Service of Manchester received an email containing a warm thank you for Paramedic Ryan McConville. The note, as depicted below, is in regards to a transport completed a few weeks prior.

 

A few weeks ago I had back surgery and between not sleeping and the pain meds  ..my daughter got nervous because I was groggy and called 911 ( as she should have)! I ended up being ok and  things turned out fine.

But I am writing about one of your paramedics, Ryan McConville. He went above and beyond to make sure  I was physically and emotionally safe… once he assessed me and determined I was stable he spent time comforting me because I was upset over the misunderstanding.  He was professional, extremely knowledgeable, and had a way about him that made a scary situation much less so for my family and myself. I will never forget his calmness and abilities.  I felt like even though my call was not of a serious matter… I think he he treats each case as though they all matter…no matter how critical or not. When you are laying on that stretcher it is scary and important to you and to have a caregiver treat you as though you matter is priceless.

People always write to complain but not as much to compliment.  So I wanted to take a few minutes to let you know what an asset you have to your team.  I will never forget his kindness and professionalism.

8th Annual “Emergency of Hunger” Food Drive Results

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MANCHESTER – The 8th Annual “Emergency of Hunger” Food Drive, composed of first responders, Rotary members, and others, was a great success! Their combined efforts continue to make a deep and widening impact on hunger in greater Hartford. This year volunteers from Manchester, Vernon, South Windsor, Windsor, and Stop & Shop Supermarkets collected a staggering 34,000+ food items, 650+ turkeys, and almost $16,000 in gift card and monitory donations.

Thanks to the wonderful generosity of the community over the last eight years, we have been able to collect a total of 247,000+ food items, 7,000+ turkeys, and over $159,500 in gift card and monitory donations.

Click HERE to read the Hartford Currant Article! 

Mannequin Challenge at “Emergency of Hunger” Food Drive

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South Windsor – In an effort to attract holiday shoppers and boost spirits during the “Emergency of Hunger” Food Drive this past weekend, participants created a Mannequin Challenge Video.  ASM employees, along with members of the South Windsor Rotary Club, Fire Department, and Police Department improvised and filmed the video while collecting goods. The video has been viewed over 32,000 times on South Windsor PD’s Facebook page alone!

Check out the video below!

“Food drive brings in needed holiday items, continues this weekend”

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MANCHESTER – On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, The Ambulance Service of Manchester appeared in the JI for it’s efforts during the “Emergency of Hunger” Food Drive. The kind words by Beth Stafford, the Executive Director of the Manchester Area Conference of Churches, can be found below.  The article, by Joseph T. O’Leary, details the annual food drive and it’s impact on the community.

This food drive grows every year, Stafford said, and ASM, which spearheads its efforts, hopes to see it spread. Stafford particularly thanked ASM, which has continued the program despite changes in leadership.

Read the full article here.

 

Regional “Emergency Of Hunger” Food Drive Starts Saturday

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Emergency response agency and food pantry representatives gathered Wednesday at The Ambulance Service of Manchester to kick off the Emergency of Hunger Food Drive.

HARTFORD COURANT

by Jesse Leavenworth

MANCHESTER –  A regional food drive that benefits area pantries and homeless shelters is set to begin Saturday.

This will be the eighth year of the Emergency of Hunger drive, which has collected and distributed food and other donations in Manchester, Vernon, South Windsor and Windsor. Organizers and volunteers include firefighters, police officers, ambulance personnel, hospital staff and Rotary Club members from the area.

To date, the team has collected 210,000 food and personal care items, 6,000 turkeys and hams and about $143,000 in cash, checks and gift cards, organizer Sean Norton of Ambulance Service of Manchester said.

Read the full article here…

Following are locations and dates for collections at the participating Stop & Shop Supermarkets:

  • Manchester – 286 Broad Street., November 12, 13, 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Rockville – 50 Windsorville Road., November 12, 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Vernon – 10 Pitkin Road., November 12, 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • South Windsor – 1739 Ellington Road., November 19, 20 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Windsor – 1095 Kennedy Road., November 12, 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On Veteran’s Day!

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The Ambulance Service of Manchester, LLC and Aetna Ambulance, Inc. would like to thank all past and present Veterans for their service to the United States of America. A special thank you to our employees that have served and continue to do so today. We are fortunate to have such patriotic individuals representing our team.

“I was very grateful that my son and I were in such capable hands.”

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MANCHESTER – In late September Ambulance Service of Manchester received a letter of praise for EMT Jonathan Bush and EMT Chauntelle Masslon from the mother of a patient that they transported from a facility to Brainard Airport.

 

The letter reads:

“I am writing to commend two of your employees – Jonathan Bush and Chauntelle Masslon who, on [a date in September], transferred my son from [a facility in Hartford] to Brainard Airport for a flight to [a facility in New Jersey]. My son suffered a [neck injury] on [a date in September] and had to be handled very carefully. Your employees also had to work side by side with the medical personnel that would be accompanying my son on the plane.

Jonathan and Chauntelle were very professional while dealing with my son and the other people involved. They were so calm and efficient. The drive to the airport went smoothly as well as the transfer to the plane. Not only did they tak good care of my son, they also took care of me. I was grateful to that my son and I were in such capable hands.

They did a great job and I just wanted [ASM] to know that.”