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

Posted on June 30, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

HARTFORD — On June 26th, 2017, seven 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.

Luisa F. Marulanda: PART TIME, EMT. Hello everyone! My name is Luisa Marulanda and I am 24 years old. I’ve been a BLS instructor and EMS administrator for two years at CPR Training Professionals where I also received my EMT certification. I realized a few years ago that my calling involved a career that allows me to help others. This led me to become an EMT and begin my journey as a first responder. My ultimate goal is to become a Paramedic. I plan to accomplish this in the near future and after gaining experience as an EMT for Aetna. Thank you for the opportunity.

Kristen Wall: PART TIME, EMT. Hi! My name is Kristen Wall. I am 22 years old and just graduated from the University of Maryland where I studied Kinesiology. I have lived in Avon my whole life and have returned after college to gain some more medical experience before hopefully matriculating to an east coast PA school. Ultimately, I am hoping to be a PA specializing in emergency medicine. In my free time, I like to work out and travel. I just returned from Europe where I was backpacking for 3 weeks!

Anthony Chirico: PART TIME, EMT. I am 21 years old and currently a senior at UCONN. I am pursuing a B.S. in Biology and Psychology. After college, I plan on applying to medical school or PA school. I have been a Connecticut resident for my whole life. I live in Glastonbury currently, but I grew up in Manchester, Connecticut. Outside of work, I like to get active! I enjoy hiking, skydiving, biking, and traveling. I look forward to working for Aetna Ambulance and I am happy to be a part of the team!

Kristen Askin: FULL TIME, EMT. I’m 27 and originally from Boston, but have spent most of my life in Danbury. I’ve been working at Nelson Ambulance since February 2016, and volunteering for Newtown Ambulance since November 2015. I got into EMS after lifeguarding for 3 years on Candlewood Lake in Danbury. I graduated from WCSU with a BA in writing but have found being a first responder to be a much more rewarding experience. I plan to attend the medic program at Capitol Community College. Outside of work I enjoy reading and kayaking.

Nick Caisse: PART TIME, EMT. My name is Nick Caisse. I’m 24 years old and from Portland, CT. I currently reside in East Hampton, CT. I joined the military 7 years ago as a Military Police Officer and deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 to 2013. In 2014, I re-classed to a Combat Medic and became the Training NCO of a medical unit within the state. I began volunteering in my local community where I decided to pursue EMS as a career. I’m currently coming off of active duty and attending a Paramedic program either at Capitol Community College or New Britain EMS Academy starting this September with the goal of eventually becoming a Flight Medic. I’m excited, and thankful for the opportunity to work with and learn from all of you!

Nicole Kozlak: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Nicole Kozlak and I am from Torrington, CT. I am 22 years old and I just graduated from UConn with a B.S. in Allied Health Sciences and a minor in Molecular and Cell Biology. I have been an EMT for a year and a half and I am a volunteer EMT with Winsted Area Ambulance Association. For the final two years at UConn, I was one of the instructors for the EMT class offered at the Storrs campus. I really enjoyed teaching and interacting with students and helping them to develop their skills. I also just recently became a CPR instructor. I plan on applying to PA school within the next year and a half and am very interested in Emergency Medicine and Orthopedics. I’m so grateful to now be a member of the Aetna team and can’t wait to start learning and gaining experience!

Lauren Hartwell: FULL TIME, EMT. I graduated from CCSU with a Bachelor’s degree in Bio-molecular Science. I started in EMS in 2014 at Vintech Ambulance Service in Litchfield County. Future plans involve either further school for a PA degree, or pursuing a career in pharmaceutical sales. Traveling is my passion and seeing the world is my goal.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: Aetna’s Camilo Quezada Completes Precepting Phase

Posted on June 12, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

HARTFORD – As of May 19th, 2017, Aetna’s Camilo Quezada 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. Camilo started at Aetna in August of 2012, and graduated from Capital Community College Paramedic Program.

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

Fundraiser for Mike Makulis

Posted on May 12, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

Mike Makulis has worked in the Emergency Department at Manchester Memorial Hospital for nearly 38 years, and has been an employee at the Ambulance Service of Manchester for over 26 years. On April 13^thof this year, he underwent 11 hours of surgery related to a vascular issue that almost took his leg. Due to severe complications, an additional surgery was required on April 14^th. The second surgery lasted for over four hours, and successfully established blood flow to his leg. Both of these extensive procures have left Mike unable to return to work at either job until further notice. In addition to supporting him emotionally, we are hoping to help him with some of the financial difficulties he will face as a result of being out of work.

There will be a fundraiser for Mike on May 25^th,from 6 to 10 pm at the Elks Club of Manchester, located on 30 Bissell Street. Tickets are available from the Charge Nurse in the Manchester Memorial Emergency Department, or at ASM from either Ryan McConville or Patrick Gleason. Please help us celebrate Mike’s recovery with food, refreshments and raffles! Tickets are $30 per person. If you are unable to attend the festivities, please consider making a donation. Thank you in advance for your generosity. If you have any questions, please call 860-647-9798 x258

National Nurses Week 2017

Posted on May 11, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

ASM and Aetna would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of the nurses our employees interact with on a daily basis. Your continued dedication and compassion remains an essential aspect of the patient care experience. Please know that your efforts will never go unnoticed.

Aetna Attends “Touch A Truck Event” in Hartford!

Posted on May 9, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

HARTFORD — On May 6, 2017 Aetna Ambulance Service attended a Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood themed “Touch a Truck” event held at CPBN Television Station on Asylum Avenue in Hartford. The event, organized by a group of military veterans, encouraged kids to interact with Police, Fire, and EMS personnel in order to gain a sense of familiarity with first responders. Event Coordinator James Reeves’s motivation for the project was “creating, coordinating, and executing a family-friendly event that highlights the importance for children and families to “be a good neighbor” and become more involved in their communities.” Mr. Reeves also stated “we feel that kids should be unafraid of those in uniform to the point that they can communicate freely and openly, especially in times of urgent need.”

Aetna Field Supervisor Matt Campbell, and EMT’s Alexandra Zhakov and Anthony Mazzola provided ambulance tours and the entertainment for those in attendance, giving out coloring books and posing for pictures.

Aetna Company Newsletter

Posted on May 2, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

Aetna Ambulance Service, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of The Grady Report, the Aetna employee newsletter. Released quarterly, The Grady Report will feature numerous articles outlining company news and events, training opportunities, case studies (periodically), health and wellness tips, and more. Additionally, each issue will contain an Employee Spotlight article, recognizing an EMT or Paramedic that has demonstrated a commitment to patients and co-workers alike via positive attitude, work ethic, and overall inspiring demeanor.

Aetna Assists at “Fire Ops 101 Day”

Posted on April 11, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

HARTFORD- On April 10^th, 2017 The Uniformed Professional Fire Firefighters Association of Connecticut hosted an event at Hartford FD’s Training Academy. “Fire Ops 101 Day” provides elected officials and other civilians the opportunity to experience the physical and mental challenges that first responders face on a daily basis.

Representative from Aetna Ambulance, several local fire departments, and other agencies acted as handlers walking representatives through real life scenarios.

Please note below Aetna Ambulance Field Supervisors Bob Mara and Matt Campbell assisting participants with the care of a simulated trauma patient.

Cleared for Independent Dispatch: ASM’s Cody Lemire Completes Precepting Phase

Posted on April 7, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

MANCHESTER – As of April 4, 2017, ASM’s Cody Lemire 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 Supervisors Robert O’Neil and Tim LaChappelle.

Cody started at ASM in June of 2011 and graduated from the Capital Community College Paramedic program. His interest in EMS began while volunteering with the North Windham Fire Department where he now serves as a Lieutenant.

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

ASM Company Newsletter!

Posted on April 4, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

The Ambulance Service of Manchester is pleased to announce the release of Pulse, the ASM employee newsletter. Released quarterly, Pulse will feature numerous articles outlining company news and events, training opportunities, case studies (periodically), health and wellness tips, and more. Additionally, each issue will contain an Employee Spotlight article, recognizing an EMT or Paramedic that has demonstrated a commitment to patients and co-workers alike via positive attitude, work ethic, and overall inspiring demeanor. The first issue of Aetna’s employee newsletter will be released on May 1st.

Click above to view!

ASM and Bolton Fire Team Up!

Posted on March 20, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

BOLTON-On March 5th, ASM employees were invited to Bolton Fire Department’s Headquarters to present to the town’s local Girl Scout Troop. Paramedic William Schnepp and EMT Tiffany Armas worked alongside FD members offering tips on how to work with emergency personnel. Tours of the ambulance were provided as William and Tiffany discussed ideas on how to avoid and prepare for emergencies. In addition, Girl Scout members received a tutorial on different types of equipment commonly used by EMS and Fire Personnel.

Aetna Appears in Local News

Posted on March 14, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

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 March 10, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

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 March 7, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

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 March 3, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

On Monday, February 27^th, 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 4^th, 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 March 1, 2017 by ASM-Aetna

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.

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