MANCHESTER — On April 28th, 2017 Aetna’s Amy Griskus was promoted to the position of Medicare Office Supervisor.
Amy has worked for Aetna since October 2007, reviewing and processing Patient Care Reports (PCR’s), interacting with Medicare patients and payors, maintaining a knowledge of billing practices to ensure Medicare compliance, and much more. On behalf of Aetna and ASM, we would like to congratulate Amy and look forward to more great things from her.
SOUTH WINDSOR — In mid April, 2017 ASM received another heartfelt Thank You card directed to ASM Paramedics Matt Tuttle and Rob Bilodeau and EMTs Bekka Fross and Jeff Hornish. The card reads:
I wanted to thank the ASM team that came to our house and saved my son’s life. You can’t imagine how much that means to my son and our whole family. You are the best! Your expertise and speed to save him was outstanding. Thank you again and again.
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.
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.
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:
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.
HARTFORD — In December, 2016 two Paramedics, and two Dispatchers 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. Bios from our new Dispatchers are currently pending, we eagerly anticipate introducing them as well.
Alex Bowyer: FULL TIME, Paramedic. I am 25 and from Bethlehem CT. I attended Moravian College in Bethlehem PA. I graduated with a BA in Sociology with a concentration in Law and Society, and a minor in music in 2013. I started with the Bethlehem Volunteer Fire Department as a first responder 3 years ago. I have been working as an EMT for Campion Ambulance Waterbury Division for the past 2 years. I attended the Goodwin College Paramedic Program, and completed my field internship at Valley EMS. I plan on pursuing a career as a fire/medic. Outside of work I enjoy camping and riding my motorcycle.
Cora Gingras: FULL TIME, Paramedic. I started in EMS in high school when I joined the fire department. I was a member for 5 years when I transitioned over to the ambulance. I have been working as a Volunteer in my town for the last 4 years. Before coming to Aetna I have worked commercial ems for 3 1/2 years. I recently graduated paramedic school at Goodwin college. My future plans are to go to nursing school.
HARTFORD – On December 10, 2016, Aetna Ambulance received a letter from Hartford Hospital’s Management Team, regarding the exceptional actions of Paramedic, Nick Foran. After noticing his kind gesture (depicted below), Karen Teixeira, a triage nurse, drafted a letter to the Hospital’s Management Team. Her letter prompted an outpouring of gratitude and self reflection from Danette Alexander, Nurse Director of Emergency Services. Read both the letter and note below.
The letter from Karen Teixeira:
A medic from Aetna brought in a homeless man tonight that was seen and released. Later, this medic came up to me asking where the patient was; I looked in the tracker and told him that it looked like the patient had been discharged. He was disappointed. He then told me that the patient was homeless and that all of his clothes were wet, especially his gloves. I noticed the pair of gloves in this medic’s hand. I asked him if they were for the patient, he said they were. I told him that he may be in the waiting room because we typically allow homeless patients to stay in the reception area if the weather is cold. He proceeded to look in the waiting room and found the patient. He was relieved that he was able to find the gentleman to give him a pair of dry gloves so that he wouldn’t get frost bite.
The note from Danette:
This is a beautiful story.
I believe it is our mission: To help. To help in any way we can. It is not a little thing to allow the homeless a warm shelter—even for just a few hours.
The empathy shown by this medic was not a little thing.
It is the only thing.
I try to learn each day so I can be a better person. Not just for me or my family, not just for all of you but I try to be better so I can help those who need us most.
Sometime it is overwhelming to look at all the people who need us. It is often daunting to the ED; the needs of all the service lines and the patients who makeup each of these patient populations. It is disheartening to listen to feedback from people that feel we fell short of their expectations.
Yes, we can be better. There is always room for improvement (I am the first to admit that I can be better).
But you need to know how proud I am of all of you and the work you do every day. Try not to be overwhelmed. We will help each patient. One at a time and do the best we can.
Mother Teresa said, “If I look at the mass, I will never act. If I look at the one, I will.”
Just keep looking at the one. We will be ok.
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.
Hartford – Aetna Paramedic and Preceptor Mitch Karr has recently joined a prestigious group of critical care providers by obtaining his Flight Paramedic Certification (FP-C). According to The International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC), “The FP-C certification targets competency at the mastery level of paramedic practice.” This accomplishment required over 6 months of self-study, and the successful completion of a grueling exam. While working full time, Mitch took it upon himself to develop the knowledge base necessary to achieve his goal. Paramedic Sam Dybdahl shares this distinction as well.
Their desire to continually progress as providers demonstrates the commitment our employees have to patient care.
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.”
SOUTH WINDSOR – On October 10th, Foster Family Farm hosted a Public Safety Day honoring 1st Responders. As shown in the picture to the left, the maze was cut to portray Police, Fire and EMS. Crew members from ASM, along with representatives from South Windsor Fire and Police Departments were on hand to showcase their respective rolls in emergency response.
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:
HARTFORD — In October, 2016 two EMTs and one Paramedic 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.
Courtney Graham: FULL TIME, Paramedic. My name is Courtney Graham, I am 20 years old and currently live in Harwinton, CT. I have been in the field of Fire and EMS since my junior year of high school, volunteering for Harwinton Ambulance and HWSFD. I graduated college with a degree in Fire Science while attending classes at Wolcott State Fire School, and working as an EMT for Vintech the past couple years. I also help teach in the summer for Camp Fully Involved, an all women’s introduction to the fire service program at New Hampshire Fire Academy. After graduating, I attended New Britain EMS Academy Paramedic Program, where I found my true passion in Emergency Medicine. During the program I had the chance to complete part of my field internship with some of AETNA’s Paramedics and EMTs. I completed NBEMSA’s paramedic program in August as a part of Class 0815. I would like to work towards becoming a flight paramedic and eventually a D.O. where I hope to specialize in Pediatric Emergency Medicine. Outside of EMS, I enjoy traveling, hiking trips to Vermont and New Hampshire, sketching, photography and being with friends and family. I’m very excited to be continuing my EMS career as a Paramedic with AETNA and meeting the rest of the team!
Kyle Kureczka: PART TIME, EMT. Hi my name is Kyle Kureczka, I am from Berlin, CT. For the last 5 years I have lived in Newport, RI where I went to school and played at Salve Regina University. The last year I have been working in the ER of four hospitals as a medical scribe. Aetna will be my first time working as an EMT. I plan to use my experience as an EMT to one day go to PA school. In my spare time I like to play soccer, work out, read, and be outdoors.
Michael Quezada: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Michael Quezada, I am 25 years of age .I got into EMS because I enjoy helping others and it is a very rewarding job. This will be my first time working for EMS and I wish to gain as much medical experience as I can while working for Aetna Ambulance. My future plans for EMS include: working as an EMT for a few years and then going back to school to obtain my Paramedic license. My hobbies are: long boarding, bodybuilding, calisthenics, playing video games and martial arts. I look forward to working with everyone at Aetna Ambulance and making new friends!
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: