1 This Week: Bobcats Game Recap 2 Jacket Orders 3 Employee Highlight 4 Scholarship Info 5 Service Desk Tickets 6 Out of Service Restock Policy 7 Training Schedule 8 Medic Calendar 8 News From The Front Line January 25, 2010 The MEDIC Dispatch Mecklenburg EMS Agency Dates to Remember : January 26th Internal Paramedic Training Academy Starts January 28th CPR Training 1800-2200 & 1800-2200 The Internal Paramedic Training Academy The Dispatch recently sat down with Debbie Parrish, Operations Supervisor to give readers an update on the Internal Paramedic Training Academy. How long have you been involved with the Internal Paramedic Training Academy? I have officially been involved with the Academy for two years. However, I had been gradually transitioning into the position for over 10 years. It became evident, in the past, that there was a need for a central person to be the point of contact for the Internal Paramedic Academy. How would you best describe your role within the Training Academy? (Laughing) My role is acting house mom. I am the students’ immediate supervisor. I support them and make sure they have all the resources they need to do their job well. I also point them in the right direction as well as give them tough love and a soft touch when needed. How long does a new academy class usually last? The Internal Paramedic Training Academy typically runs for 8 to 9 months. Beginning this year, the faculty at the Center for Prehospital Medicine over at Carolinas Medical Center made a few adjustments to the current training model. For example, the length of the program has now been extended to allow students more time to absorb the information covered. The order of the program has also been modified slightly. Students will now receive classroom training during the first half of the program, followed by intensive field training during the second half. The adjusted order will better prepare students for the many situations they are likely to encounter when they complete the Academy. What are some of the biggest misconceptions about the Academy? I think for many students it’s the unexpected. It is basically not knowing until you’re actually going through the program. This is when it becomes apparent of just how important it is to have a strong support system in place. The Academy is very rigorous and intense and to be successful you must be fully prepared. Is it uncommon to experience dropouts during the Academy? Dropouts do happen for a number of reasons. It can be because of a life situation change, academic, etc. However, with the new training model in place we are confident that we are in a great position to experience very few individuals dropping out of the program moving forward. For more information on the Internal Paramedic Training Academy, please contact Debbie Parrish at [email protected]or ext. 6223.
Transcript
1
This Week:
Bobcats Game Recap
2
Jacket Orders 3
Employee Highlight
4
Scholarship Info 5
Service Desk Tickets
6
Out of Service Restock Policy
7
Training Schedule 8
Medic Calendar 8
News From The Front Line January 25, 2010
The MEDIC Dispatch
Mecklenburg EMS
Agency
Dates to Remember:
January 26th
Internal Paramedic Training Academy Starts
January 28th
CPR Training
1800-2200
& 1800-2200
The Internal Paramedic Training Academy
The Dispatch recently sat down with Debbie Parrish, Operations Supervisor to give readers an update on the Internal Paramedic
Training Academy.
How long have you been involved with the Internal Paramedic Training Academy?
I have officially been involved with the Academy for two years. However, I
had been gradually transitioning into the position for over 10 years. It became evident, in the past, that there was a need for a central person to
be the point of contact for the Internal Paramedic Academy.
How would you best describe your role within the Training Academy?
(Laughing) My role is acting house mom. I am the students’ immediate supervisor. I support them and make sure they have all the resources they need to do their job well. I also point them in the right direction as well as give them tough love and a soft touch when needed.
How long does a new academy class usually last?
The Internal Paramedic Training Academy typically runs for 8 to 9 months. Beginning this year, the faculty at the Center for Prehospital Medicine over at Carolinas Medical Center made a few adjustments to the current training model. For example, the length of the program has now been extended to allow students more time to absorb the information covered. The order of the program has
also been modified slightly. Students will now receive classroom training during the first half of the program, followed by intensive field training during the second half. The adjusted order will better prepare students for the many situations they are likely to encounter when they complete the Academy.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about the Academy?
I think for many students it’s the unexpected. It is basically not knowing until you’re actually going through the program. This is when it becomes apparent of just how important it is to have a strong support system in place. The Academy is very rigorous and intense and to be successful you must be fully prepared.
Is it uncommon to experience dropouts during the Academy?
Dropouts do happen for a number of reasons. It can be because of a life situation change, academic, etc. However, with the new training model in place we are confident that we are in a great position to
experience very few individuals dropping out of the program moving forward.
For more information on the Internal Paramedic Training Academy, please contact Debbie Parrish
On Saturday night, January 16th, 108 Medic employees and their families descended upon Time Warner Arena to watch the red hot Charlotte Bobcats dismantle the Phoenix Suns.
The evening began with 26 children of Medic employees taking to the court with the players during pre-game warm ups. The kids were able to get up close with the NBA stars and even got some high fives out of the deal.
Next up was Medic’s Honor Guard, under the direction of Jim Manning. The team represented Medic
well while the National Anthem was performed. A big thank you goes out to Jim Manning, Julia Barela, Tom Wright, Colby Willison and Cheryl Eudy.
Once the game was underway the Bobcats gave everyone plenty to shout about, as the Suns never really threatened after the first quarter. Based on the feedback we received from everyone who attended one of our two games this year, we will
definitely be looking to do this again next season.
For those who are interested, all of the photos that were taken at the game have been posted to Medic’s Picasa site, which can be found at
Please log in and download the any of the photos you want!
Medic Night at the Bobcats
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Columbia Jacket & Vest Now Available for New Orders
Interested in a MEDIC Columbia Fleece Jacket or Vest?
In November 2008, the Medic PR Department held a MEDIC Store Open House over a two-day period in the bay. The MEDIC
store sold several items, including a Columbia Fleece Jacket and Vest. Since then, the department has been approached by several people interested in purchasing the same jacket/vest.
To keep cost low, Medic is offering a two-week ordering special for the Columbia Fleece ONLY. The jacket and/or vest comes in either black or Columbia blue and will have the Medic logo embroidered on the left side.
Pricing information below:
Men’s or Women’s Jacket - S, M, L, XL - $39.50
Men’s or Women’s Jacket - 2Xl, 3XL, 4XL - $46.50
Men’s or Women’s Vest – S, M, L, XL - $33.50
If you would like to purchase a jacket or vest, please stop by the PR department to see either Kristin Young or Nikkie Perry. Please bring cash or check (made out to KS Image Solutions) by Friday, February 5th at 12 noon. For more information about ordering a jacket/vest, please contact Kristin ([email protected]) or Nikkie ([email protected]).
Another Medic Open House is schedule for early Spring – further communications will follow so you can mark your calendars.
Are you an HGTV fan? Looking for the latest design trends and innovations? Want a chance to meet with the top experts
on everything from cabinetry and countertops, flooring, room additions, basement finishing, waterproofing, energy efficient windows and landscaping? Then the Build, Remodel & Landscape Expo is the place for you! MEDIC is giving every
employee two free tickets to this event. The expo will be held from Friday, January 29th through Sunday, January 30th at the Charlotte Convention Center. The complimentary tickets are good for one time only usage during the three-day
expo. For more information or to pick up your complimentary tickets, please contact Kristin Young [email protected]/ext. 6165 or Nikkie Perry [email protected]/ext.6178 in the PR department.
Congratulations to Mariann Earwood! After 30 long hours of labor, she and her family welcomed son, Greyson William
Earwood into the world. A special delivery, William was born at Presbyterian Matthews Hospital on Sunday, January 10th weighing in at 8lbs 11ozs. Both mother and son are doing well.
Complimentary Tickets Available Special Delivery
4
Employee Highlight
On Tuesday, January 19th the IT department expanded it roster by welcoming new hire, Reggie Ball.
As the IT Help Desk Specialist, Reggie will be responsible for troubleshooting computer issues for both the ambulance fleet of
trucks and in-office staff, minimizing downtime for on ambulance trucks and working on the day-to-day IT help desk issues.
Prior to joining Medic, Reggie served as a technical consultant for AtStaff, a software development company located in Durham. The Raleigh native has over 10 years of industry-related experience and is currently pursuing a degree in Information Technology from the University of Phoenix.
Outside of IT, Reggie’s hobbies include sports, reading and electronics. His favorite professional sports teams are the Philadelphia Eagles (football) and our very own Charlotte Bobcats (basketball).
1. What was your favorite TV show growing up?
The Cosby Show
2. What CD is in your CD player right now?
Seal’s Album —-“Soul”
3. How many rings before you normally answer the phone?
Three
4. What is your favorite cartoon character and why?
It is a tie between Wolverine from the X-Men and Scrappy
from Scooby Doo; both characters were fearless and
destined to succeed by faith or aggressiveness.
5. If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?
Neglect
Meeting Room Reminders
A large number of meetings are being held in the office during the month of January. As a result, we are experiencing more in the way
scheduling problems with the conference rooms.
PLEASE make a reservation for a room through Kim Krakower at [email protected] or ext. 6059. If the meeting is taking place in the Training Room or the Auditorium, please be sure to contact
Kevin Staley at [email protected] or ext. 6220 to secure your room reservation.
Please do not assume that a room is available because it “looks empty.” Thank you.
5
Free Money in Scholarships
According to a recent study performed by the College Board, the cost of higher education has risen nearly 6% in the last ten years from 1998-1999 to 2008-2009. This 6% increase is higher
than the rate of inflation and does not include other education-related expenses such as: room and board, books, supplies, equipment and transportation.
Fortunately, the Dispatch has received helpful information for anyone looking to ease the cost of pursuing higher education. Please take a moment to read about these three local scholarships
listed below and their respective deadlines.
The Rotary Public Safety Scholarship Fund is providing scholarships of $1000 to undergraduate students who are children of Charlotte area public safety personnel. Scholarship awards will be made based on academic merit, financial need and
community service.
Minimum Eligibility
1. Mother and/or father are full-time employees of the Charlotte Fire Department, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office or MEDIC, with a minimum of one year of service.
2. Are high school seniors intending to enter a two-year or four-year degree program.
3. Have a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale).
4. Demonstrate financial need.
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must submit their application and supporting documents by April 1st:
For more information on the Rotary Public Safety Scholarship Fund or to download the official application form,
The North Carolina Association of Rescue & EMS is offering annual scholarships to its members and their children. Every
year, MEDIC pays dues on behalf of each employee to become a member of this wonderful organization. Last year, 7 Medic employees received a combined total of $28,000 to use over their 4 years of college. Unbelievable!
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must apply by the March 31st deadline.
For more information on both the Member and the Children of Members Scholarship programs, please visit
www.ncarems.org and click the Benefits section. You can also contact Leigh Taibe in HR at [email protected] or ext. 6086.
The LGFCU (Local Government Federal Credit Union) scholarship application deadline is quickly approaching! With a
deadline of February 12th, the close of this year’s scholarship is a little more than two weeks away.
Scholarships will be awarded to as many as 120 graduating high school students and students attending colleges,
universities and graduate schools. Awards in the amount of $1,000 will be applied to a laptop or textbooks are intended to recognize excellence and achievement in both academics and extracurricular activities.
For more information on both the 2010 LGFCU scholarship, please https://www.lgfcu.org/global/pdf/ScholarApp2010.pdf. You can also contact Charvetta Ford-McGriff in HR at [email protected] or ext. 6089.
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The IT Department highly encourages all MEDIC employees to use the Service Desk ticketing system for all IT related requests and issues. The ticketing system will make sure that your issue(s) has been properly documented and will be handled in a timely manner by a member of the IT department.
The Help Desk line, 704-943-6111, should only be used by crews out in the field or for all emergency IT issues.
To access the Service Desk ticketing system, please go to the following website on a MEDIC computer:
http://helpdesk:8080
The username and password is the same login used when logging onto your MEDIC computer.
If you have any questions about the ticketing system or if you would like assistance in creating a Service Desk ticket, please contact the IT Department and we will be glad to help.
Thank you for your cooperation!
Service Desk Tickets
Simulations Sign-Up Reminder
As you are aware, the spring 2010 simulation rotation begins on Monday, January 25th. Please be sure to check the current
schedule to confirm your time.
While we have had a good number of responses to date, there are still a few remaining staff members from the Operations department who have not yet signed up for simulation.
If you have not already done so, please contact Robin Pariso in Medical Services immediately to sign up for simulation.
MEDIC has joined a website called GovDeals.com that allows us to auction off government assets to the public. The agency
will be auctioning off a number of used surplus items including computer equipment, fitness equipment, office furniture, etc.
If you are interested in seeing what items are available, please visit the GovDeals website at:
http://www.govdeals.com/
Search the keyword: MEDIC911
The results screen will display any items from MEDIC that are available for auction. The site works very similarly to eBay.
You can also search and buy from different government agencies by looking at other categories listed on the website.
The items on the website are subject to change so please check back from time to time to see if anything interests you!
Medic’s Surplus Auction
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Out of Service Restock Policy
One of the most important functions of the Agency is to maintain sufficient levels of staffing and deployed vehicles to meet the demands of the citizens of Mecklenburg County. This is done by keeping all units stocked and in proper condition at all times.
All units are properly stocked and equipped daily prior to the units deployment for service. If at any time during the course of a shift a unit depletes their levels of stock or has equipment that is in need of replacing, the Crew Chief or BLS Team Leader of the unit should contact the on duty Operations Supervisor immediately.
If the Operations Supervisor agrees the unit should return to Post 100 for restock, they will immediately notify CMED
Control. The Crew Chief should then contact Logistics via radio on the assigned ‘Logistics’ channel and advise them regarding the item or items that are in need of replacement.
Upon arrival at P100, crew members of the unit should make immediate contact with logistics staff, as they will be waiting with the necessary equipment.
Immediately upon completion of the restock/replacement process, logistics will then contact CMED via radio to advise the restock process is complete.
Crews will not be allowed to return to P100 for the purposes of completing other business unless approved by an Operations Supervisor.
If you have any questions about this important revision to the current Out of Service Restock policy, please contact Bryan Edwards at [email protected] or ext. 6130
Performance Pay Update
The final numbers for December are in and everyone should be pleased to know we finished very strongly! Patient satisfaction improved to 68.7%! Excellent job everyone. We also made a big jump to our overall P1 scene time average. This was due to
the fact that our average P1 scene time in December was 10:02, a whopping 55 second improvement over November’s average of 10:57! Nicely done. With this level of improvement, that average will get below the target sooner than later. Stay focused on these key tracking areas as we finish up the month of January. Another update with the first half of January’s results will be out shortly.
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Visit Us on the Web! www.medic911.com
MEDIC Mecklenburg EMS Agency
4525 Statesville Road Charlotte, NC 28269
Tel: 704-943-6000 Fax: 704-943-6001
January 2010 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 A
2 A
3 A 4 B
5 B
6 A 7 A
8 B
CPR Training 1300 - 1700
9 B
10 B 11 A
CPR Training 1300 - 1700
12 A
Make Up In-Service
1200 - 1600
13 B
14 B
Make Up In-Service
1200 - 1600
15 A
CPR Training 1300 - 1700
16 A
Medic Night at the Bobcats
17 A 18 B
Holiday Office Closed
19 B
20 A
21 A
CPR Training 1800 - 2200
22 B
CPR Training 1000 - 1400
23 B
CPR Training 1000-1400, 1400-
1800 & 1800-2200
24 B
25 A
26 A 27 B 28 B
CPR Training 1800 - 2200
29 A
30 A
In-Service
Training
Medic Events
Holidays
Recertification Testing
Medic Calendar 2010 Training Schedule
AHA Refresher Classes at Medic
CLASS TIME: 1300-1700 **except where otherwise noted
CPR
Jan 28 ** 1800-2200
April - 9, 12, 16, 19 / 22, 29 ** 1800-2200
July - 9, 12, 16, 19 / 22, 29 ** 1800-2200
Oct - 8, 11, 15, 18 / 21, 28 ** 1800-2200
PALS
FEB - 5, 8, 12, 15 = 1300-1700 / ** FEB 18, 25 1800-2200
MAY - 7, 10, 14, 17 = 1300-1700 / ** MAY 20, 27 1800-2200
AUG - 6, 9, 13, 16 = 1300-1700 / ** AUG 19, 26 1800-2200
