Hi there,
My name is Robert Bauer, I'm a Paramedic in Evansville, IN. I noticed through Google that the Indiana EMS Association has taken some interest in this forum. First of all let me clear up a few things.
This was a story done by a TV station to help promote the organization shortly after a press release. The reporter actually did us a pretty big favor by helping to bring awareness our way. While you may be focused on the fact that this story is more about recruitment and retention; that is not the sole, or even primary purpose of this organization, just the hook to cram a lot of information into a minute long TV news story.
The purpose of the organization is to be a voice for EMS providers, to be advocates for the EMS system in Indiana. We are an affiliate of the NAEMT, we are incorporated as a non-profit domestic corporation. This organization is set-up under IRS rules 501 c 3. We are a public charity, not a union. Our by-laws mirror those of the NAEMT.
In Indiana, there is no other, and has NEVER been any other organization that represents all EMS personnel. This was pointed out to me by 2 different Indiana EMS Commissioners. The EMS Commission (our governing body) is made up of appointees of the Governor... one of which represents EMTs, one that represents paramedics. There are also other bodies represented. To date, the office of the Governor(s) has never had an association to take recommendations from EMS personnel for their appointees.
I started this with the support of 2 EMS Commisioners and a who's who of Indiana EMS figureheads. They have all long supported a grassroots effort to create such an organization, but for them to do it, would be a conflict AND would devalue the nature of the organization. Other supporters include Dr. Bryan Bledsoe, outspoken EMS educator and advocate and Bob Loftus, President of the National EMS Museum and former NAEMT Board Member. We are also supported by our affiliate organization the NAEMT.
We are in the infant stages, but have had both State and National level support. I intend to see that this is up and running, there is a lot of work to be done though.
While I appreciate that certain people have strong negative opinions regarding this; I remain very optimistic. I also question why an organization poised to promote professionalism, education, and the general welfare of EMS would be under so much srutiny by someone who remains under mask and vail.
So from this 'whacker', if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions you can contact me at 812-484-9790. If you would like to e-mail me send it to rpm911@yahoo.com. If you would like to discuss it face to face, feel free to visit me here in Evansville, I'll even put you up, and buy you lunch.
Also I'm sure the members and supporters would love to hear your comments, if you would like to send your e-mail address to me; I would be happy to distribute it to those folks, so that they can contact you as well.
Thanks,
Robert Bauer NR/CCEMT-P, FP-C
President
Indiana Emergency Medical Services Association
P.S. While our official site is not yet available, a brochure, and other materials may be downloaded at www.inems.net