Here's a recent update from pjstar.com regarding the ongoing debate between Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) and the Peoria Fire Department: The simmering rivalry between Advanced Medical Transport Inc., a major player in Central Illinois, and the Peoria Fire Department seems to be reigniting after years of dormancy. This conflict centers around the responsibility for providing paramedic services and patient transport within Peoria city limits. Almost a decade ago, tensions flared when both parties clashed over who would dominate this crucial service. Ultimately, AMT struck a deal with the city, agreeing to pay $85,000 annually, adjusted for inflation, for exclusive patient transport rights in Peoria. In 2009, the agreement was tweaked to permit the fire department to operate three advanced life support (ALS) engines. However, now the department is seeking approval for a fourth ALS engine stationed at House 19, located on the city’s northwest side, close to the new Louisville Slugger complex and The Shoppes at Grand Prairie. The cost of this addition is estimated at around $5,000. Some argue that Peoria is already adequately served by current resources. Peoria Fire Chief Charles Lauss and Rick Waldron, president of Peoria Firefighters Union Local 50, insist that this move is not an effort to phase out AMT. As Lauss explained, "We have an existing contract with AMT. We cannot engage in transport services unless we give them a five-year notice. Our goal here is to improve our services and better serve our community." Both leaders emphasize that the proposed change will not disrupt the current arrangement but instead fortify the existing partnership. Currently, Peoria firefighters are capable of offering basic life support, while only the three paramedics assigned to the ALS engines and AMT staff are trained at the advanced level. Waldron, himself a firefighter-paramedic, and Chief Lauss believe that introducing a fourth ALS engine will be advantageous for everyone involved, enhancing public safety and strengthening ties with AMT. "As long as we ensure a medic arrives promptly, it doesn't matter who gets there first. That's what truly matters," Waldron stated confidently. However, representatives from AMT, a nonprofit organization providing ambulance services in the Peoria area for years, remain skeptical. They argue that increasing the number of paramedics might lead to inefficiencies, as there may not be enough cases to maintain proficiency among all personnel. "Providing excellent service isn't about doing everything—it's about doing the right things," noted Andrew Rand, AMT's executive director. He referenced two letters sent last year by Dr. Matthew Jackson, head of the Peoria Area Emergency Medical Services system, addressing concerns about excessive paramedic saturation. According to Dr. Jackson, Peoria currently boasts approximately 6.4 paramedics per 10,000 residents, far exceeding levels seen in many U.S. cities. Studies suggest that this overabundance could negatively impact patient outcomes, particularly during emergencies like cardiac arrests, due to diminished skill retention among paramedics. Nonetheless, Chief Lauss counters that his department's 40-plus paramedics receive ample training and practical experience. "Our team members consistently meet all mandated training requirements. Additionally, several of them work for other agencies on their days off to stay sharp," he clarified. This proposal remains under review by the PAEMS director and will eventually reach the City Council for consideration at a future session. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds! Milling Services for Metal Parts,Precision Brass Machining,Brass Metal Milling Parts,Brass Cnc Machining Service Mianyang ZHIWELL Electronics Co.,Ltd , https://www.micrommf.com