The Public Safety Net

North Platte, Nebraska - I wanted to get further than this yesterday.

A later-than-expected start, combined with ski resort traffic returning to Denver, put us here at about 11:00 last night. The roads are in great shape so far, but I'm looking forward to seeing the monster snowdrifts that are rumored to exist further east.

A lead story in this morning's Denver Post is definitely worth reading if you're at all interested in the subject or profession of pre-hospital care. Those who have plied the trade are all too familiar with the "frequent flier". The reasons for people to use the EMS system for less than emergency situations can be as varied as the volume of calls themselves.

Putting paramedics into the role of a community health care provider seems to be an idea growing in popularity, in both urban and rural areas. I'm trying to think of problems and pitfalls, and all I can come up with is issues related to reimbursement, and along with potential territorial issues from the Home Health industry and the Nursing professions. In any case, it looks like lots of dialogue is happening out there, and I'm pleased that the Post took a look at the concept. The citizens of western Eagle County should also be pleased at the progressive nature of those in charge of their ambulance district.

Time to go. Have a great day.