Syriana

Actually had a co-worker do just this the other day. Pt had been involved in an MVA and had bumped their head and couldn't remember own name, however was desperate to make sure their spouse knew what had happened and that we were transporting them to the hospital. Unfortunately, when they handed my co-worker their cell phone, they also said, "I can't remember that name either." My co-worker searched for the ICE listing and (thankfully this pt had programmed that into their phone) was able to notify their spouse. The only time I have had any dealing with ICE, but in that case, it worked great.

Kudos to you for reporting him and I am sorry it has turned out the way it has for you because of it. It is a shame there are companies out there that operate like that, I believe if it were not for that type, EMS would have a better reputation. It irritates me that someone like your former partner has a job as an EMT and I can't manage to find one in my area. I want to continue on to Paramedic school, but I have to get more stability first and being able to work as an EMT-B while I get there would be great (right now I just volunteer with local the rescue squad). Good luck, I hope the next position you find lands you in a better situation! Syri

Someone has already mentioned the fact that taxes and service fees cover most of those "free" services, however, I wanted to point out that in a rural area such as where I live having your house fire put out is actually not free at all. We are a small community and as such have no employed fire department, but instead a volunteer one. This is staffed by volunteers who have taken their training on their own dime and provide the service for the county out of a sense of duty and kindness. They are funded for equipment and yearly CE classes by a small stipend from the state and from membership fees paid by the citizens of the county each year. You can choose not to be a funding 'member' of the fire department, (because that choice is your right), but if that is what you choose and your house catches fire, you actually WILL receive a bill for the services if they come put it out.