National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, Rising to the Challenge
The Seneca Nation recognizes National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, May 15-22. EMS Week is an opportunity to honor those frontline heroes dedicated to providing emergency services that saves so many lives everyday.
Seneca EMS was formed in 2019 to provide the highest level of care outside the pre-hospital setting. On staff paramedics give the highest level of medical care and treatments outside of a hospital setting. Care and technology provide coverage to patients while en-route to cardiac or stroke facilities. With both territories located in rural areas that do not have immediate access to a hospital, Seneca EMS Chief Michelle Redeye wanted to provide 24 hour care. To date, Seneca EMS has served over 5,000 patients between the Cattaraugus and Allegany territories with numbers continuing to grow daily.
“The future of Seneca EMS on Seneca Territory is always having an ambulance available when people need it. That’s the biggest issue we see now. When the call volume climbs, we need to meet that demand,” shares Councillor Presley Redeye, Fire Chief.
Many local fire halls and EMS services are dependent on volunteers whom work during the day, Seneca EMS is ready and always on call for not only members on territory but for the surrounding communities as well. “It takes Seneca EMS 90 seconds or less to respond. Our crews are upstairs making it possible to get to our patients in a timely manner,” explains Joni Jackson, Operations Manager.
Dr. Joe Bartz, Medical Director Seneca EMS, ECMC, who has been involved with developing the program says “Seneca EMS exceeds the scope of the surrounding organizations. I use the word ‘exemplary’ because Seneca EMS is following along the standards and the expectations that other medical organizations would want to make an example for themselves.”
Sandy Jemison, EMS patient, suffered a heart attack in the middle of the night. While in excruciating pain, her family came to her aid and called for help. By the time Ms. Jemison was able to make to her way to her living room, Seneca EMS was already on-site. Paramedics supported her emotionally, mentally and physically which she credits to saving her life. “Having the ambulance there and going when I did really saved my life,” says Ms. Jemison.
“I’m proud of the team I have. They’re highly trained individuals that do what they have to do in a timely manner and provide the highest level of care to patients on our territory” says Ms. Redeye, EMS Chief.
** The stories of those impacted by the Seneca EMS team are many, and prove just how crucial their service is to our community. Seneca Media & Communications Center spent some time talking to these heroes and listened to the powerful testimonies of those helped by Seneca EMS. Nya:wëh every day to our Seneca EMS squads. Please check this link on YouTube to learn more
