Trapper

Actually the Public Officials, take bids on the contract.........at least in my area.....And award the contract to the Lowest bidder....who has the best ability to meet the needs of the contract..... Or maybe its the company that can slip them the most money under the table.........lol

The trouble with Unions for EMTs and Paramedic's working for Privet Ambulance companies, is that the majority of EMTs/ Paramedics, are only with the companies for a short amount of time. And as a result, I don't think you get as much of a commitment to the Union, as you might expect from a job one plans to stick with for a good many years, such as the Fire Department or a Police Department.... And if your fellow Union members don't care or are not committed , then the local Union chapter will be weak. And with a weak union, all you end up doing, is paying Dues and more Dues.....And getting very little back for your money, if anything. I am in a union now, one that I voted against twice, and there's a big mess taking place. More about the mess, another time perhaps..... Be safe........ Trapper

LOL Hell, DustDevil we are lucky if the public even knows the difference between a EMT and a PM, let alone, have a clue as to what me make for pay or receive for health benefits... So for you to say that the public does not respect us, because we ask for improved pay and health care, leads me to think that your way out of touch, maybe a desk jockey. Do your self some good, go out and get some air.....

I am hoping Dust, just read the post too fast.

It seems as if you are saying that it's your co-workers that suck. I'm certainly not questioning you on that. There's a lot of suckage in Kalifornia EMS. But if your co-workers are the problem, how would you expect punishing your employer to solve that problem? Sounds a bit like holding your breath until you get your way. It doesn't fix the problem, and it hurts you. Can you explain a little more about what your grievances are, and how you would expect a strike to address them?

Good day fellow EMT's and EMS Professionals. As a EMT working for AMR, and one that will be going on Strike Monday, the 28th of April. I found this site by way of a Google search, while looking for new strike news.... One could go on and on, about the pro's and con's of striking, as some of you have.... This will be my first time participating in a strike, and oddly enough I am looking forward to the experience...... There's no telling if we will get all that we are asking for, but I know from my years with AMR in the L.A area, that AMR will not do any more than they have too. Sadly AMR seems to stand for Another Minimal Response. And to be honest, I'd be a happier EMT, If I came to work in the morning and found that the previous crew had left my assigned Ambulance clean and fueled up. What we need to fight for, is Self Respect , and Respect for our fellow EMT's. And a bit more money from our respective employers won't hurt either... Take care........ Trapper