The Unsung Heroes of Emergency Care

Across Webster County and the United States,teams of dedicated professionals stand ready to provide medical assistance during emergencies. For some, this is a full-time career, while for many others, it is a volunteer undertaking performed in addition to their regular employment.

The importance of emergency medical service (EMS) personnel cannot be overstated. they are frequently enough the first point of contact in critical situations, providing knowledgeable help when it is indeed needed most. Honoring these men and women is always appropriate, especially during National EMS Week, which began Sunday and continues through Saturday.

A History of Recognition

The recognition of EMS professionals has a rich history. In 1974, President Gerald Ford proclaimed the first National EMS Week, acknowledging the vital role these individuals play in our communities.

Today,the National Association of Emergency medical Technicians and the American College of Emergency Physicians lead the event,continuing to raise awareness and recognition for EMS providers.

EMS in Fort Dodge: A Fire Department Initiative

In Fort Dodge,pre-hospital emergency care is primarily provided by the Fire Department. The department’s roster includes firefighters cross-trained as paramedics or EMTs, as well as a number of EMTs and paramedics who are not firefighters. The department operates six fully-equipped ambulances,and all fire trucks carry medical gear.

On July 1, 2018, the Fort Dodge Fire Department assumed full responsibility for the ambulance service, which was previously provided by UnityPoint Health – trinity Regional Medical Center. This transition, according to hospital and city officials, ensures outstanding care in a financially sustainable manner.

The hospital had provided ambulance service as 1958, when it was known as Lutheran Hospital. The service continued as the facility’s name changed to Bethesda General Hospital in 1969, to Trinity Regional Hospital in 1974 and to today’s UnityPoint Health – Trinity Regional Medical Center.

webster County’s Network of Care

The Fort dodge Fire Department is not the only provider of emergency medical care in Webster County. Volunteer EMS units operate in Gowrie and Dayton, and the Otho Fire Department recently added ambulances to its fleet. Firefighters, deputy sheriffs, and police officers also serve as vital first responders, providing initial care before ambulances arrive.

Earlier this year, webster County voters demonstrated their support for EMS by designating it as an essential service and approving a new property tax levy to support it.

Regional Support

Throughout the region, numerous EMS agencies stand ready to assist at a moment’s notice. These include ambulance services operated by Van Diest Medical Center in Webster City, Humboldt County Memorial hospital in Humboldt, and Pocahontas Community Hospital in Pocahontas. Calhoun and Sac counties both have countywide EMS systems.

A Community’s gratitude

The public is grateful for the service of all EMS providers.