How to identify, manage provider apathy in EMS

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

As the industry waits for more details in the case involving two Illinois EMTs charged with murder in the death of a patient, cohosts Kelly Grayson and Chris Cebollero discuss the lack of compassion show by the providers and the scourge of apathy that plagues EMS. The conversation explores how EMS leaders can help keep industry personnel on a more professional path.

Top takeaways

"Members of the workforce will stay for low pay if they are treated well, or good pay if they are not treated well, but they won’t stay for both.” — Kelly Grayson

"We must define our own professionalism, and every call we go on now has the opportunity to become a national news event. It is not 'if' but 'when.'" — Chris Cebollero

Additional resources

• Malpractice or murder: When do EMS providers cross the line from negligence to a crime?
• Video: Is deeply disturbing patient care murder?
• Listen: 'How does this happen?' – Wolfberg and Wirth weigh in on EMT murder charges
• You've seen the video; now what? 14 action steps for EMS leaders to root out bad behavior
• You’ve seen the footage – Now what? Part 2: 15 steps for providers to compassionate care 
• Prone positioning: Therapy or apathy?