Reflections on our noble profession
By Scott Sholes, President

To Colorado’s EMS Providers, Agencies and Fellow EMSAC Members

Of late, I have been reflecting on the EMS profession. I cannot express enough the gratitude I have for the dedicated EMS providers serving patients across Colorado. From the metro area to the southern valleys, western slope and eastern plains you go above and beyond in the care and advocacy of your patients each and every day. Our systems of care are larger than any one provider or one agency; indeed, EMS is strongest when we work together. 

Although the Elijah McClain case dates back to the summer of 2019, the progression of associated events has kept Colorado EMS in the national spotlight.  Not only have there been unprecedented criminal charges and state legislative actions, but this event also prompted needed focus on both systems issues and patient advocacy during certain critical incidents.   

Yesterday, one of my fellow paramedics, an aspiring leader, came to me and expressed concern about “how things have changed.”  With cameras everywhere and a new critical eye on what we do, he fears we are at increased risk of career-threatening criticism. We discussed the recent sentencing hearing of one of the Aurora Fire Paramedics and some of the comments made by those who spoke.  Perceptions about roles, compassion and patient advocacy were thematic in that hearing.  As managers and leaders, we must rethink some of our staff training, as well as assuring all roles are clear when law enforcement is on-scene, eliminating any barriers to care.  As EMS providers, we must always advocate for our patients. 

I’m sure, like me, these events may be causing you to reflect on our profession. I’m also mindful that one incident does not define a profession. Your compassionate patient care is unrivaled in the healthcare industry, often delivered in the most challenging of environments.  If our profession has shown one attribute over the last several years, it is tremendous resilience.  Not only do we get through tough times together, we learn and come out better.

I speak for all EMS leaders when I say we are proud of the clinical care you deliver at any time of day and under any conditions. Your service to our communities is the backbone of our healthcare system. Know that at EMSAC we have your back and are working every day to advocate for EMS and will continue the fight to protect and empower providers and agencies to deliver the highest quality of care.

Keep your head up as you serve patients in this noble profession.