Will the ambulance issue ever be settled?
November 6th, 2007 by 
colson
Just when it looked like the long months of deciding whether or not MED-Star should be allowed to operate in Brandon, it appears the issue has hit another roadblock.
The three committee members named to oversee the calls and ensure a quality service have all resigned, citing personal reasons.
Some council members say that without a committee Jay Masur and MED-Star should not be able to start doing business in Brandon.
Others say the ambulance service’s medical director could do that work.
It will be interesting to see how this all shakes out.
Posted in Uncategorized, Ambulance | 
November 6th, 2007 at 10:47 am
Three medical professionals cite they are resigning due to liability issues. What more do we need to hear to be convinced we should take a step back and reconsider this ambulance issue?
The more I research this issue, the more concerning it is. Cutting MedStar loose on this town without an oversight committee is placing our lives in the hands of an unproven ALS service.
Any of you that are in Mr. Karber’s district should seriously consider a recall petition. He is way out of his league. He has yet to make one rational, logical statement about this ambulance issue.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:00 pm
If these medical professionals feel that this oversight would put there careers in jeopardy, maybe its time to take another look at MedStar. We need to know what it is about this issue that made these folks on the Advisory Board want to get off. They know something we don’t and that info should be made public.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:12 pm
Yes, I am more then a little concerned. Is this going to open the City up for more liability or will it fall back on MED star since we will be contracting with them?
November 6th, 2007 at 2:31 pm
I didn’t vote for Karber last time around….in this is precisely the type of reason why!! Ward I, and the entire city of Brandon would be better off with him out of the picture. I think we should follow Yankton’s example and begin the recall process for all 6 council members and the Mayor. Good news for me and the rest of my fellow Ward I neighbors, a new representative is going to be “chosen” by the council. Although, I believe they will install whatever GOB will best suit their needs, the list of 5 has a few candidates who should be good representation. Personally, I voted for the best guy last time around and he’s not in anymore.
November 6th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
I don’t agree with #4, this is not all Karber’s fault. I think that people in this community have to look forward not back to how things were 5 or 10 years ago. Brandon is not going to get any smaller and the City’s problems are going to get more complex and larger.
I don’t agree with only one ambulance service in Brandon either. I hope we can use both Rural Metro and Medstar, because I know that ambulance companies make their money on hospital transports and if we have more then one option, it would be better. And I know that ambulance service need medical review. So if the three person committee has resigned, does the County Medical Director do the quality control?
Reference the City Council, I have said it in the past and will say it again. Do what is best for the community as a whole. The old saying; “the needs of the many out way the needs of the few or the one.”
November 6th, 2007 at 4:17 pm
Anonymous, we must have voted for the same person, i think he was prety much on it with the ambulance issue. That is making the fire department have some individuals full time and capable of hauling patients. I know that the fire department would have some hurdles to jump but we would diffintly kept it home, not to say that Jay isn’t home. Most people would accept the more expanded role of the fire dept.
November 6th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
If this ambulance ordinance goes forward without an oversite committee, it is my belief that City will be in violation of the very ordinance it watered down and placed before the public.
Concerning Mr. Karber…this is my editorial comment, and only my view:
I do not know Mr. Karber personally. I have never had the opportunity to speak with him one-on-one. I have observed him at two ambulance ordinance hearings, several city council meetings, and I have read his comments in various media publications. Based on what I have observed, he is uninformed, forms opinions without reason, and uses intimidation and bullying tactics to get what he wants. His voting record seemingly falls in line with whatever Mr. Rubin does and says, instead of his own original thoughts and ideas.
Again, this is not a personal attack on Mr. Karber. These comments are about his political abilities (or lack thereof) and have nothing, NOTHING to do with him as a father, husband, friend, or family member.
November 6th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
Against advise from some and at the risk of more personal attacks, I am going to post my thoughts here on this blog:
First, I have thrown myself back into consideration for representation on Ward I. This ambulance issue, other important pending issues, and for the greater good of Brandon I would like the opportunity to serve and work for the betterment of our community. Second, I think it is extremely alarming and telling that the entire Quality Assurance Committee quit. What it says to me is, “….hey council, we made a recommendation to you that doesn’t neccessarily favor the licensing of anyone who doesn’t meet some basic requirements (Med-Star included), and that their are many questions to be answered yet.” However, the council chose to ignore their recommendations and follow a different path. I applaud and respect their desire to take themselves out of a liablity situation. Having said that, I think individual motivation for certain council members should, and likely will, be in question. I agree with you, Brandon Resident and Anonymous…I have heard the words “re-call election” as it pertains to this entire council and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it. I don’t need to tell you who I voted for in the last Ward I election when Brett Karber ran….unfortunetly, those who voted differently than I may be regretting their decision now. Finally, I don’t expect to be welcomed back into the City Council, but I can promise you all this. I have not and will not work to serve my own interests, rather what is best for my Ward and for the entire City of Brandon. I hope to get the chance to serve Brandon once again. There will never be any question where I stand on the issues. As for the ambulance issue, by City Ordinance “…the council shall appoint an assurance committee…” seems pretty clear-cut to me. I’m sorry Brett, like many issues….you and I definetly disagree on this one. However, consider if I get the chance to partner with you in the representation of Ward I we will have to work together although we may not always agree. If anyone ever wonders how I stand on any of the issues. Just ask!
November 6th, 2007 at 8:08 pm
#1- agree wholeheartedly
#2- There have been people throughout this whole process that have been screaming red flags and people just won’t listen. There’s a ton of stuff people probably don’t know. Do some research, talk to people that know of MedStars (Caretraums) past. One easy way is to go to city hall and get a copy of the committees report, it’s there for the asking. There was informational forums, come to the council meetings. Call the people that have been involved and ask questions.
#3- I will hold the city responsible. They have lowered the quality of care and disregarded advice from 2 committees. They hired them, it’s on them.
#5- Again….2 ambulance services don’t work. One, because there isn’t even enough business for 1 for a town the size of Brandon. A company has to be liquid to function. And two, competing for 911 calls is dangerous and will always fail. Ask Jay Masur himself, he tried it in Huron and Aberdeen and stated himself there wasn’t enough business and he was gone in a matter of months.
The county medical director has nothing to do with Brandon anymore. When the council chose medstar we lost REMSA. We’re on our own.
#5- They all are to blame except Mostek (he voted no) But…Karber has been spearheading this from the beginning. He’s, by his own admission, gotten a better insurance quote for Medstar, he’s put his name on a Medstar political flyer, I believe he’s even gone to county task force meetings pushing Medstar, and gotten “out of order” and told to come to order or be kicked out. Yes, that’s on their taped meeting minutes.
#7- I agree. And I agree of your Karber assessment 110%. I’ve also witnessed him bullying Mostek, Mary Brooks and anyone else that tries to tell him he’s wrong. He has overstepped his bounds by a mile on this, he is NOT qualified to speak to many of the medical issues he has, he dismisses all medical advice given by the professionals, he has blatantly politicked (is that a word?) in favor of Medstar. That’s not his job. His job is to represent the people of his ward and be impartial.
And I agree of your last comment too, my above comments are directed at his city position only and I suppose are my opinions, but do the research. All the city council minutes are audio taped.
November 6th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
I was talking about the resignations tonight over dinner with my family, and I told my kids these people voted with their feet. They didn’t know what the expression meant. I tried to explain that when you get in a position you don’t feel is right and you can’t change it, sometimes your only option is to leave – hence the expression voting with your feet. These resignations make a loud statement, and maybe the people of Brandon should listen and start paying attention. These people seem to think the new ambulance service is going to fail and they don’t want to be connected with that in any way. Maybe we should review the old newspaper articles and blogs (ignore the personal attacks that take up time and space) and talk with our councilmen. Perhaps the committee folks would tell us why they resigned in this blog – under anon. of course. Or maybe the paper could do an interview?
I have had some dealings with Karber. My first impression wasn’t good, but he surprised me by admitting he was wrong and taking responsibility for his actions. I never convinced him I was right (must be his shortcoming since I’m sure I’m right
). He struck me as the type of person who once his mind is made up he rushes in to get things done. His major failings are he only sees his side, makes up his mind too quickly, pushes too hard and hangs around with the wrong people. I don’t think any of these are reasons for a recall, but I don’t live in his ward. I hope we can avoid going down the people bashing road. It really detracts from the blog and turns off the majority of the people we should be trying to reach. IMO
November 7th, 2007 at 7:18 am
I live in ward I and I don’t think we need to be addressing a recall. Those in ward I that are in disagreement with Mr. Karber merely have to have the balls to call and let him know or better yet email him at city hall.
As for Mr. Tople, If it is your intent to run for a council seat, you should not be encourageing a recall. It makes you sound like a person who only ses his side, makes up his mind to quickly, pushes to hard, sounds like the old Mr. Tople when he was on council. All of the above were reasons people did not vote for you in the mayor election or last council election.
November 7th, 2007 at 7:30 am
Always,
You are under the assumption Mr. Karber has been willing to accept criticism on this issue, which he has not. He openly refuses to believe (or admit) he’s wrong, I don’t know which. He has been told many times throughout the various public forums and meetings, he doesn’t care. And don’t tell me to call him or meet him one on one, I won’t be a part of his “circle talking” and bullying.
And as far as saying Mr. Tople only sees one side….you’ve just described Circle Talking Karber as well.
November 7th, 2007 at 8:00 am
You are correct, at least he will know we the people are disatisfied and perhaps he to will resign.
November 7th, 2007 at 8:20 am
I have spoken to Brett on many issues. I don’t agree with everything he has pushed forward and don’t really agree with the Medstar issue either. But he has admitted to me of his mistakes and I believe he is doing what he thinks is best for Brandon.
My question is everyone says he is a bully and forces his will on the rest of the Council. I think the problem is the rest of the Council and the Mayor. If they do not have the convictions or the heart to stand up to what they think is right, then they are more at fault.
I am not for a recall election. I think it would be extremely hard on the community. But I would like to see some Council members with some balls and willing to listen to all the Community members and not just the so called, Brandonites. We need to look forward and what is best for the Community, I agree with #5. I would like to see some new blood on the Council and a New Strong Mayor.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:09 am
Karber……SNOWBALL……GET THE PICTURE…… Mr. Karber has said he made mistakes and “We messed that up”. That is what was said at a council meeting in reference to the ambulance ordinance, but it passed anyway. If you make a mistake then you need to correct it. The only problem here is that the majority of the city council has a personal interest in Medstar’s business and that is not only legally wrong, but morally and ethically wrong. The mayor needs to step up to the plate and get this thing right. Mr. Beesley do your job and take charge of this issue and set it straight, that is why you were elected. I hope the folks in Ward 1 get out to vote next year….PLEASE for the sake of the rest of the city. Good Ole Boy Karber needs the boot……….Some issues, such as this don’t get the attitude, Oh well the committe resigned, it will be fine. We need to keep track of what is going on, just ask the cities of Huron and Aberdeen. Med Star dropped them like a bad habit. If we don’t keep a tab on this issue it is going to bite every taxpayer in the town, and not in a good way. Please get out and vote next time when it comes to seating a city council. A few folks on this one are only interested in their personal, and I have to say future business interests. Public service was meant to be, and always will be, for the betterment of the community and not for your self.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:15 am
Looking Ahead, are you advocating the change of the form of government of Brandon? I think it is interesting that people are suggesting a recall for Mr. Karber. Would any of you be willing to serve in his place? I am not a fan of Mr. Karber, but he is doing something many of you wouldn’t. Put your money where your mouth is.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:17 am
Karber says to hire a committee…and just where is this money suppose to come from? Have you seen the budget for next year? There is nothing left. Look hard at what this council has done to our city. If Med-Star goes forward and the city does indeed get sued…what happens then? Where will the money for that come from?
I whole heartedly support a recall. Something needs to be done now!!!! Replace all but Mostek, at least he listens to the people and holds true with his votes!
What happened to having a contract with Med-Star? This was what Kathy was pushing. This was to be where more ‘meat’ was added to the ordinance. I thought this was where times would be stated. There are so many issues going on with Med-Star. Do your research people!!! We need the best for Brandon…not what is being pushed down our throats.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:49 am
I don’t blame the committee folks for resigning. They were the experts and expressed their reservations regarding Medstar. The council totally ignored their concerns and treated the members of the committee with litle respect. Now Karber says we should go ahead with the Medstar contract and let Medstar’s own medical director do the quality assurance reviews. That is like letting the fox guard the hen house. Their medical director doesn’t even have hospital priveleges. Can it get any worse?
November 7th, 2007 at 10:38 am
#16, NO, I said I think Karber is doing what he thinks is right, I don’t have to agree with it. All I am saying is that we need some strong, forward thinking people to get on the Council, who will look after the community as a whole and not get on the council for personnel reason or gain. I don’t think Karber is on the council for personnel gain, my statement was we can’t blame this all on Karber. There are 5 other council members and a Mayor. One vote does not pass an issue. I think, over all, we have some very weak council members who are not looking forward. THings around Brandon are going to grow very fast in the next few years and if we are not looking ahead of it, we are going to be introuble. I want strong convicition and forward thinking on the council, that is all
November 7th, 2007 at 10:41 am
Everyone needs to realize that this has come down to a no win situation - regardless of which side of the issue you are on. People will throw out the “I’m going to sue” card if the city stays with Rural Metro (poor response times) and they will threaten to sue if the city goes with MedStar (people seem to have many reasons, ??? validity).
I personally feel something needs to be done with the response times of Rural Metro - it is unacceptable (personal experience). Is MedStar the answer, I am not sure. At least the council is/has been TRYING to improve the situation.
Remember, the council members have families too. I am certain they want what is best for them as well as ALL residents of Brandon. Also consider, why would Mr. Rubin personally use MedStar in his business if he didn’t have 100% trust in their abilities? Do you think he would have some liability issues if MedStar wasn’t up to par and someone at his racetrack was injured???? I doubt he would use them if he didn’t have complete trust in them…..
I think the council should consider throwing out what has been done and start from scratch. Maybe the fire department can be used - never have understood why they can’t transport people. Other area towns use their FD. Yes, I realize we may need to pay to staff during the daytime hours. Some, if not all, of these cost would be offset with reimbursement from insurance, etc.
Finally, kudos to those who have once again stepped forward to give of their time to be considered as the temporary council member. I am hoping the council picks a person with NO personal agenda.
November 7th, 2007 at 10:58 am
Think about this a little…do you really think a cardiologist is going to review ambulance runs??? How would he possibly have the time between his practice, surgery and personal life? You really think he’d do it for free?? Besides that, quality assurance should be transparent, meaning an independant agency should be doing it. We had REMSA before and that is a group of 11 qualified people!! In order to have equal to what we had before, that’s what we should demand. And yes, it can get worse, someone will get hurt and the city will get sued.
Mr. Mayor….I would like to express my dissapointment in your leadership. You have had the power the stop this with a veto, why are you risking our lives? Here is our Brandon Motto as published on the city website.
MISSION STATEMENT:
“The City of Brandon will create an environment for its citizens to build a better life by using resources wisely, managing growth and providing quality services in a safe and professional manner.”
You are not upholding our city mission’s last sentence. THIS IS NOT SAFE. You have taken an oath. If you can’t (or won’t) do your job, then resign. The people elect you, but they can certainly take it back. Ultimately, this is on you as the head of our city. That’s my opinion.
November 7th, 2007 at 11:06 am
#19, Mr. Karber is there for personal gain, he’s invlovled with realistate, I beleive he is in the mortage field. Hence, is why I would not be surprised to see Mr. Bastian as the next representative.
November 7th, 2007 at 11:14 am
Bastian also is involved in the building industry in Brandon.
November 7th, 2007 at 12:42 pm
It seems like people are really upset with Karber. You know who I am upset with? I think you are forgetting who else is in knee deep.BESIDES Karber,Buck,Diamond Don,the silent one,but really readable Rubin. It is time to say goodbye to those 4 biased,big headed, you have to live with what we say, we know it alls. So I am calling for the resignations of these 4 members for not upholding Brandon’s Mission statement.You are a detriment to 8,000 people. Don’t let it get ugly.
November 7th, 2007 at 12:52 pm
This council bashing is really getting old! Do you people forget how they got on the Council? People voted them in! My guess most of the poeple b itching on these blogs didn’t even vote…so quit ur bichin’ and do something about it! If any of you think you can do better get your butt off the computer and run for the positions yourself! Reading these blogs isn’t even a productive part of my day anymore…I read them to be enlightened not to listen to a bunch of whiners! Cindy signing out for good!
November 7th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
I just think on many issues that have come up in the recent past, that the council as a whole has been very weak. I understand like most politic types, they don’t want to take a stand on issues and when a few people get up and yell, they fold. #24, I don’t think anyone should resign, but if we want a change, lets do at the voting box. I just hope someone strong and who is willing to make the tough decisions. I have spoken to most of the City council members and at least if you talk to Karber he will tell you how he feels and not just pay you lip service.
November 7th, 2007 at 1:21 pm
TOOT-A-LOO CINDY!!!
November 7th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
#26-Mr. Mostek is not paying you lip service when you talk to him…he is the lone soul up there trying to look at all of the facts and do what those he is representing would like. Telling someone what you think, and thinking that being elected to a position gives you the right to do as you please, with no regard to what your constituents want does not make you a good representative. I do hope that someone who is interested in truly representing the citizens of Brandon will be willing to run next time around, and I do agree that most people on this blog probably didn’t even vote last time around, but I think we have had some major issues come up over the last year, and hopefully that will be enough to wake some people up and make them take notice of who is running for office, and what they stand for. We all need to take more responsibility for what is going on here because the truth is, we did elect them.
November 7th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
Well I see Mr. T-O-P-P-L-E is back. If he thinks he will fill the vacant seat, Lord help us. Felony charges? I have yet to see him at a council meeting, nice support.
As far as the Ambulance issue goes if there are so many questions still unanswered there obviously still several issues. If the whole safety committee resigns, well there should be a RED flag as they do not want to be held responsible for the actions of Med-Star. I have heard nothing but horror stories about the service from the past. Yes, they do a good job at the race track but how many people to the have to perform emergency medicine on? I feel this should be put to a community vote as to weather or not we even want to switch the service. We have a very good volunteer fire department with EMT’s that can assist until the paramedics get there, so why change it to cost the Brandon tax payers more money or maybe even a life!
November 7th, 2007 at 3:21 pm
Yes, we do have a fabulous volunteer FD. The problem is not with them, it is with the response time from Rural Metro. Injured or ill Brandon residents deserve to get to SF ASAP. Having to wait for Rural Metro to get out here is 20+ minutes and then another 30+ minutes before you actually get to a hospital. Much faster to drive in than wait for them. Been there and done that……
November 7th, 2007 at 3:36 pm
Response time is an issue with Rural Metro. They are dispatched out of Omaha, not through Sioux Fall, so that takes a little time. Also they make more money doing hospital transports. I agree with #29, on there are RED flags reference MEDstar. I don’t know what the right answer is, but I think the ambulance issue should be pushed back so we can get them answered.
November 7th, 2007 at 3:41 pm
just thinking,
You’re exaggerating RM times. The average is 13 minutes (Medstar is only guaranteeing 8 minutes) They both have the same amount of time on the return trip, and it doesn’t take 30 minutes lights and sirens.
Don’t forget that Medstar can’t get doctors orders en route and RM can. That 5 minutes won’t matter if you can’t get what you need outside of written protocol (which happens more often than you think)
People…if I have a stable leg fracture I’m saving myself the money and driving myself, BUT if I’m having chest pain I’ll call 911. I will rely on our local EMT’s to use their defibrillator and RM will be a few minutes behind. By the time I get the 1st shock I think they’ll be here lights and sirens. I prefer RM’s experience. Experience beats time…every time.
November 7th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
#31- why then do the radio’s come from Metro Communications in Sioux Falls? Where did you get your info about Omaha?
November 7th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
To #31 Rural Metro DOES NOT get dispatched out of Omaha. They are dispatched out of Sioux Falls just like Med Star will be. Get your facts straight before you start throwing out dumb statements.
November 7th, 2007 at 4:51 pm
RM is only dispatched on private calls (non-911) like nursing home trnasfers from Omaha after their Sioux Falls office closes for the day. otherwords it all comes from Metro Communications.
As for (deathstars) doctor, very smart man, I met him a few times. (works as the Dr. for the Pen,) fills in around the state for other Doctors when they go on vacation ect.
As far as the issues go. you need
1. responce times written, (or Medstar will be responding from S Falls, like RM)
2. Your Council voted REMSA away back in 2005, don;t blame them now for that.
3. 80% of Paramedicine is relying on your Basic Life SUpport Skills learned as an EMT-Basic.
4. FD’s dont have ambulance services. (this statement is as false as, “other FD’s do it” no ambulances do, there are a few FD’s that operate Ambulance in SD, but read the SDCL (state codified law, and Administrative RUles of South Dak. they outline the basics of how an ambulance needs to be run. Read and know before you blow up.
5. the FD’s that do run ambulance have problems of their own due to federal funding guidelines. Homeland security doesn;t allow the Fire grants to be used on Ambulance.
6 Sioux Falls, needs to follow suite with Rapid CIty, Mitchell, Watertown, Aberdeen and drop a 3rd party ambulance and run one out of their FD.
6 leaves BRandon in a pinch still. STart ytour own service.
Dells, Humboldt, Garretson can do why don’t you.
Steves Rubins wife was on the county ambulance task “farce” presumably to help weasle “DEathSTar into the game. (didn’t happen)
read the papaer and the minutes from the meetings (they were tapped too. Jay played the same games as he has been for years with the members of the task force. (Including County Medical Director Dr. Luther)
FIND A NEW ROUTINE
November 7th, 2007 at 4:55 pm
The gauntlet has been cast with the resignation of the committee. We will see how our city leaders respond to this latest turn of events. If they continue forward with this new ordinance and MedStar, that should tell us that they think a ‘duct-tape and bailing wire’ remedy for 9-1-1 service is good enough for Brandon.
If MedStar would get a legitimate Medical Director, have back-up plans IN WRITING as to who is going to respond when there is more than one patient needing ALS service, and somehow convince us of the quality and experience of their paramedics, I will be the first to ‘shut up.’
I would suggest that our city leaders get together with the management at R/M and see if a new station could be built between Sioux Falls and Brandon. That station could serve the east side of Sioux Falls as well as Brandon, Valley Springs, and all points in-between. If the city would subsidize the cost to build this new ambulance garage, in the long run this would probably be less expensive than the inevitable law suits and/or having to subsidize MedStar because the revenue stream in Brandon will not be enough to support a stand alone local service. We don’t have to pay for all of it…maybe only a fraction of it. R/M will get the revenue stream out of Brandon/VS, as well as in eastern Sioux Falls. It might be possible to justify the cost…but we will never know if we don’t look at it.
Concerning approaching Mr. Karber…I spoke to a very good friend of mine that tried to approach him after the first ambulance hearing at the golf course. As soon as he realized this person had some concerns, he pushed passed them and said nothing. So, ‘having the balls’ to talk to him directly isn’t always the answer…
November 7th, 2007 at 4:55 pm
#30
It does not take 20+ minutes for RM to get to your house, if there is a Code 3 call in Brandon, RM will be at your front door with in 5 minutes of Brandon Fire showing up. And then they can give you the care that you need unlike Medstars poor service. And RM is dispatched out of SF. People this is making Brandon the laughing stalk of the area. Everyone knows Medstar service is not good and if we are having this many problems getting them approved, that should be a sign to just say NO. We need to go to the Brandon Fire meeting and request them to look into starting a transport service.
November 7th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Regarding fire service/medical. Yes, there are cities that have there own ambulance service, but they are a SEPERATE
November 7th, 2007 at 7:02 pm
#36 – I wouldn’t want my golf game interrupted to hear complaints either. Your friend should have set up a time to discuss the issues. Common courtesy goes a long way in this day and age. The worse case is you do emails – he can answer when he has the time.
I agree with you on the gauntlet being thrown by the committee. I think the issue is up to the people of Brandon. If no one questions/complains to their council member, then they will never think there is an issue (just the usual complainers spouting off). You should be having voters call/write/email the council to ask them what they plan to do. If no one complains to the council (this blog doesn’t count), then they will just appoint another committee.
As I understand the issue, we have 3 choices – R/M, MedStar and the Fire Department. If we went with the FD, I would assume we would want a paid staff on call. With at least one person to get to the scene until another showed up to drive the ambulance to Sioux Falls. I think there is lots of work to make that option work. I think it becomes feasible with a paid fire department.
The second choice is to stay with R/M. The response time seems to be the big issue with them. We could try to get them to locate a station closer (or in) Brandon to reduce the response time. I don’t know what they do most of the time, but Brandon is about the middle of the East half of the county.
The third option is to go with MedStar, who has a place in Brandon. The issue with them seems to be quality of care, necessary access to doctors and hospitals and we need an oversight committee to ensure everything is working properly. The other issue is their track record of pulling out when there is not enough business to support them.
From a layman’s standpoint, an ambulance in town seems better than one in Sioux Falls. The question becomes which one. Brandon just passed a law to get a service in town, so I think most of the people in town feel that way. I’m assuming R/M can meet all of the requirements. If R/M doesn’t want to have a station in Brandon, then that is their choice. Our remaining choice is either the FD or MedStar, and I don’t think we are ready to do the FD yet (maybe down the road). MedStar has issues. We need to know what will happen if two calls occur at the same time (probably rare). We need to know if they will require a subsidy (makes the FD option more likely). We also need a backup plan if MedStar pulls out. I can see why the council will stick by their plan unless somebody comes up with a better one. I think we need to give the people of Brandon simple options. Voters get confused easily – I know I do. Please correct me if I over simplified the issues.
November 7th, 2007 at 7:07 pm
#39…a point of clarification. My good friend approached Mr. Karber after the ambulance ordinance hearing that was held at the golf course. It was not during a game of golf.
November 7th, 2007 at 7:31 pm
Confused,
It’s not that RM doesn’t want a station in Brandon, they have said in the public forums that our town can’t support the cost. They also said in the forum it costs approx. 400,000 to run ONE staffed rig. That includes the all the ultra expensive medical equipment, wages, insurance, taxes both employment and other, etc, etc. If we have 200 calls and they charge $900 that’s 180,000 bucks and they’ll only actually collect (because of medicare) about 50% of that. It would be a bad business decision on their part to put a service here that they know will fail. They stay in business in SF due to the Volume they do and the fact they are a nationwide company. Volume=discount. They said they would put a station out here if they could.
It is not rare to have 2 calls at the same time or at least more than one patient. A one car accident leaving the high school lot probably has 3-4 teens in it. Masur said himself he’s only providing one ambulance to Brandon WITHOUT A SUBSIDY. There’s the key words everyone.
Healthcare is not simple, sorry. That’s why it requires years of education and on the job experience. That’s why those who don’t have it appoint committees who do have it AND LISTEN TO THEM.
The young lady that asked Mr. Masur the question at the council meeting hit the nail on the head. She asked him to provide the number of successful iv starts, intubations (and 1 other thing I can’t recall) they have performed. Mr. Masur refused to answer her question. If he won’t answer to his paramedics success rates with the life saving techniques required, I don’t want them anywhere near my children, or me. And PS, transport patients are already intubated when a tranport ambulance service picks them up. PSS, intubation means putting a tube in the trachea to breathe for the patient when they can’t. No breathing, no life. No experience, no thanks.
November 7th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Citizens of Brandon step aside cause the one lone council member who has had any question about deathstar ain’t goin to stop the Reubin/Masur Express. It coming to our town without any QC or thought - just Jay’s word.
Those bad people who question medjoke predict at the next city meeting Buck, karber, and hammond under Ruebins lead (GOB’s)will vote to issue the license to deathstar as promised on 11/15 — no (QC) and no response time requirements. unless you count a paramedic unit within 8 minutes (1 to 2 mile distance)as a requirement.
November 7th, 2007 at 8:46 pm
#40 – thanks for the clarification. It does make a difference. I’ll try to stay off the soapbox.
#41 – even I can follow the ‘No breathing, no life. No experience, no thanks’ reasoning. You numbers were interesting.
I’ll email my council members tonight, and copy the other members. If everyone who reads these blogs did this, they would get a ton of emails which would be hard to ignore. It is probably more effective than just blogging. Someone might put a comment on the news story suggesting people call/write/email their councilman – not everyone reads the blogs.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:07 pm
I keep hearing that we need to contact our city council and express our views or concerns. The council voted 5-1 to issue the contract with Med-star when a committee selected by the council couldn’t support the only application, I thought committee was comprised of experts.
November 7th, 2007 at 9:12 pm
You’re welcome. I can’t claim the numbers though, they were given by other people at the forums!
I’d be interested to hear what responses you get to your emails. I’ve become skeptical and am thinking you’ll get a nicely wrapped “speech” about thanks for your concern we’ll take it under advisement and the only thing we want is to do what’s best for Brandon. And my reply would be, “then revert to the old ordinance” the one that was working great (for free)
And you’re correct about the news, let’s hope they’re reading.
It’s very refreshing to have a poster reply in a positive “I DON’T know it all attitude” Thanks for your input.
November 7th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
I think it is funny how no one is coming to the defense of Mr. Karber. Many people have suggested a recall (albeit not seriously) but no one has gone on here to say that they think he is doing a ‘heckuva job.’
November 7th, 2007 at 10:30 pm
I see that “Community Jerk, er, Advisor” is back once again taking personal shots. It’s too bad no one responded to your loser-like name calling attacks….that YOU STARTED again! I find it interesting that you have nothing to say except, to make baseless attacks on me and state the obvious…”we need to do something to save lives…” No kidding jerk! As for not seeing me at Council meetings….I attended over 300 meetings during my 4 years on the council….don’t remember seeing you there, but then again everyone who I did see had enough balls to identify who they were. Since you obviously have nothing better to do, why don’t you check your facts, there are NO FELONY charges and we’ll see what happens with this council on Monday night.
November 7th, 2007 at 10:46 pm
Can someone please share the email addresses of the city council members and/or the mayor’s email address?
Time to get a letter writing campaign started. I encourage everyone that is concerned about this ambulance ordinance — especially now that the oversight committee has resigned — to let their feelings be known.
November 7th, 2007 at 10:49 pm
I just saw Brett Karber on the KELO news story regarding the Assurance Committee resignation and the future of MedStar in Brandon. Here’s a question, why is he the “spokesman” for the council on this issue and being interviewed in the MedStar ambulance garage? I’m not trying to attack Brett personally on this issue, or suggest that he’s the only one to blame. I think the rest of the council (Mayor included, excluding D. Mostek) should answer some very important questions as to why they support this position or make some of these decisions. As for many of the other comments made here, I too have respect for the ability of the FD and their First Responder Skills. I’d be interested in talking with Roger B. and what they think about a partnership whoever is handling the ambulance duties and the FD’s role in responding to medical emergencies. Finally, #26..are you kidding me? “…at least if you talk to Karber he will tell you how he feels and not just pay you lip service….” are you medicated? It depends on who Mr. K is talking to, as to what version you hear. I know of several incidents where these public servants say one thing and then do another and tell a different story depending on who is listening.
November 7th, 2007 at 10:53 pm
For names, photos and contact information of the City Council members, go to the city’s Web site, www.brandonsd.com, and click “City of Brandon.” Then click on the “Mayor and Council” link on the left side of the page.
You may have to type the Web address in your address field if clicking on the link above doesn’t work for you.
November 8th, 2007 at 7:02 am
Interesting how Mr. Karber comments on the fact they can’t get sued, but not on why they quit.
Also interesting that the committee member spoke to her lawyer and she evidently got a different answer about being sued. And as Karber states…is this committee considered a “governing board” they weren’t elected, they were volunteer so they may not be protected.
They must have found out that the committee wouldn’t be covered under the cities insurance as the council stated at the meeting. Now they have a different angle.
I’d like to hear a straight answer from Mr. Karber on why they ignored the committees report. they NEVER give the hard questions a direct answer. .
November 8th, 2007 at 8:57 am
My question is this, what is the difference beween MEDstar and Dell Rapids Ambulance, Garretson Amulance or Humboldt Ambulance. I know they are not part of the Fire Departments. They have volunteer EMTs and Paramedics. The County Medical Director oversees them. What is the problem. And you have to quit jumping on Karber, he was on of 5 votes.
November 8th, 2007 at 9:51 am
Good Question HBFR, I’m not educated in the area of all this. As I see it there are a certain amount of people that just plain and simple do not like Jay Musur and are trying to make it impossible for him to operate in Brandon.
November 8th, 2007 at 10:16 am
#52 AND #53..
Garretson, Humbolt and Dells do not have the track history of Medstar. Also, those towns are soon going to be part of a district which will fund them no matter how many calls they have. Medstar will not profit enough money in brandon to pay for all its employees and up keep.
ALSO, DR’S did not approve of Medstar service, now tell me are this the service you want coming into your home, when DR’s DO NOT APPROVE of their service?
LETS FACE IT, BRANDON IS BECOMING THE LAUGHING STALK OF MINNEHAHA COUNTY!
November 8th, 2007 at 11:17 am
This is a first for me, so here goes. I have contacted the council members on things. They then say no one has contacted me, or I haven’t heard from anybody. So emails to them will not work. Who would any of them tell? Each other? The only way to raise any awareness of this is to write letters to the papers, this way at least your concerns would be heard.
About the ambulance district, Jay can’t qualify for it because he can’t pass the county application, but boy, how lucky are are we!
Practice makes perfect…just not with the citizens lives as the practice dummies.
November 8th, 2007 at 12:02 pm
Mr. T-O-P-P-L-E, there you go lying again. I have not seen you at any council meeting in the past year at least. All you like to do is spout what you think is right; we don’t care of your opinion!
I still don’t understand why someone thinks we need Med-Stars service in this town, just because they are located here? NOT! Have we had any complaints or anyone die from the service we currently have? The police usually arrive at any call in this town within about 2 minutes. On medical calls the police respond followed closely by a first responder. On code 3 calls or serious medical calls I bet Rural Metro arrives shortly after that. What’s the problem, why are we beating a dead dog issue? Can’t it just be dropped? The entire committee quit, that should tell the people something. If Karber is so sure of the service have him sign a letter and take responsibility if something happens. It appeared to me the Quality Assurance Committee was not fond of passing the issue anyway and Med-Star did not meet ALL the requirements. The GOB still put it through, now they are worried about getting sued? Good for them, let them take responsibility for their actions for once instead of making the Brandon pay for THEIR mistakes! And yes, I fell Brandon has gone from a quality community to the laughing stock of Minne-HA-HA county and that is sad that 6 elected officials can do that.
November 8th, 2007 at 12:05 pm
There is no vast, anti-Masur conspiracy going on. That’s one of the MULTIPLE frustrations here. I’m so tired of hearing Poor-Put-Upon-Jayyyy, you hatttteeee himmm, why do you haaaattee himmmm. Past behavior is a good indicator of future behavior, or that’s what the little Dr. Phil on my shoulder keeps whispering in my ear. I believe tiny Dr. Phil. He’s never wrong. It’s just basic psychology.
Yes, I believe in second chances, but the man is on his 5th and 6th chance, at some point, where do you start to think maybe someone (it’s not me, conspiracy nuts!) doesn’t want you to own an ambulance service? It’s a huge red flag when the thing you keep trying to do keeps failing. The definition of crazy is doing the same things over and over again expecting a different result. Little Dr. Phil says take a hint, here, mmkay?
I understand passions, I understand he wants to help people. All my life, I’ve wanted to be the white Oprah, at some point I had to realize that A.) there’s a black Oprah and B.) I’d have told all those whiny people to shut the hell up and finish making me my latte (Oprah seems like she’d be much more interested in the Starbuck barista’s crazy ass boyfriend than I am. That’s what makes her Oprah.)
I Don’t know the guy in any personal way, don’t care to know the guy.
I know the facts.
The huge HOW DARE YOU PEOPLE CONFUSE THE ISSUE WITH FACTS mantra that’s been shown this far is frightening. Bullheadedness has it’s place, but when my life is on the line, you better take a step back and re-assess.
I will sue if something goes wrong. I will own Med-Star (I always wanted my own little ambulance company. I’d change that hideous green to something more stylish like indigo-blue with a dash of cerulean, and I’d have the sirens play “I’m just Wild about Harry” instead of that annoying woooWOOOOwooooo).
Should they make a mistake on my loved one or me, I will do everything within my power, and within the power of the legal system to make sure that no harm is done to anyone else’s family member.
I joke, but believe me, I am dead serious.
November 8th, 2007 at 1:00 pm
#56 you are dead about the response but you to have to remember per our city council and med-joke — NO Paramedic = no patient care. First responders and emt’s on the scene in less the 4 minutes do not count as patient care.
Jay and steve like to cherry pick the numbers, this way you can scare people with a partial truth and still be truthful.
Jay did this with Caretram in Sioux Falls( check the back argus articles) Jay yelled and screamed he could have been on scene in 2 minutes but that lousy SF ambulance took 7 minutes. completely disregarding the facts that police and fire were there in about 4 minutes but remember no paramedic = no care.
Jay and Steve(city council) wants you disregard that only 3 of his passed the state inspection- not enough equipment (must have been a surprise inspection).Hopefully all his rigs meet the state guidelines all the time - are they not transporting patients.
jay and Steve want you to forget the Med-joke disappeared in the middle of night from Aberdeen and Huron.
Finally I think the state should be investigating Med-joke for his heart wrenching story about washing his rig and the guy was having a heart attack down the street. I believe there is a state law that says if a medically trained individual passes a safe medical scene without stopping and rendering care its call negligence. Lets send the tape to police for investigation.
November 8th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
Sorry the first line should be “#56 you are dead on about the response times”. Also there is no Anti- Masur conspiracy just fear of deathstar and the their half truths.
November 8th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
I think the health care workers who live in Brandon should take offense after reading Jay’s quotes in today’s Argus: “The city’s going to have to work very hard to get an expert crew of qualified medical professionals familiar with ambulance work out of the people of Brandon”. The city of Brandon is home to several flight nurses, ER nurses and a couple of ER docs, and respiratory therapists. He also states in the article that he has never met the members of the now departed QA committee, yet at the council meeting he called Mrs. Brooks by her first name and I know I have seen him go in the doors of the local clinic on more than one occasion I suspect there is more to the story than liability concerns for the resignation of the committee. If the city council felt so stongly about having these “experts” review the application, and give their treccomendations, they didn’t pay it much heed at the time they took their vote. Maybe because the physician with ER experience, the former flight nurse and ER nurse that made up the committee don’t know anything about the type of “ambulance work” Mr. Masur refers to in the Argus. Has anyone from the city ever sat down with Rural Metro and discussed response times? One has to wonder where things would be if the city had just sat down with Rural Metro, the fire dept and ACCURATE numbers on response times, etc and addressed the concerns long ago. If the city decides to go with another QA committee, they need to have written expectations for what they want that committee to do . Our current ordinance just states we need to have one, but not what their role should be.
November 8th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Yesterday I asked if it could get any worse. I just realized that this same bunch of elected officials will be picking our next police chief!! Public safety in Brandon has taken a step backwards with the rebirth of CareTraum hiding in a MedStar costume. What’s next up for law enforcement? Heaven help us.
November 8th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
#56- It’s really sad that we have very capable people on our VOLUNTEER Fire Department that take great pride in caring for the people in Brandon. They have great response times and there are EMT’s on their staff. That is CARE, at no profit or gains to them except self satisfaction to them for a job they love to do. I would put my life in their hands to care for me until a properly trained and equipped ambulance could get there if I needed it. Is this so hard to see that the majority of the people in Brandon do not need the Death-Star? Let’s put it to a vote and let the people speak! I know the GOB’S read these blogs so if you guys care about your community let’s take some action.
November 8th, 2007 at 3:12 pm
Sorry the first line should be to #58
November 8th, 2007 at 4:04 pm
I think we already had a vote on the ambulance issue, back in May and it passed.
November 8th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
I sent an email of my concerns to all of the council members and the mayor last night. I received two replies today – one early this morning and one this evening. The replies were certainly longer than my email and I thought they were well thought out (not just a quick reply to get me off their backs). I think emails work – at least they read them and they do respond. You may not like the answers and opinions, but they explain the reasoning behind their actions. The goal should be to have a debate and present other solutions, not have a pissing contest.
November 8th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
Without knowing what explanation they gave you, we can’t really decide which “version” you got.
I’m guessing that some of the content goes like this: they’re just doing what’s best for our city, they live here too. They’re so happy you emailed them with your concerns. They’re definately interested in what you have to say. There’s nothing to worry about with the QA committee quitting because the medical director will just take over. They welcome your input and are always ready to learn something new. There’s been misunderstandings and they’d love to set the record straight. And my personal favorite….you have to go talk to “Jay” and see “his place” he’ll answer all your questions. And yes, that’s the same “place” Mr. Karber was at when he did the interview for KELO the other night.
John, you must have missed the debates, because there was 2 of them early on. They were public forums and we’ve been hearing the same drivel since. Now that you’ve got their answers I challenge you to call the people that have opposed this from the beginning. Two of them did the forum at the MS library. And many spoke up at the golf course meeting room forum. Ask around, someone will know how get a hold of them. You owe it to yourself to get both sides of the story.
November 8th, 2007 at 9:45 pm
John,
I think I just threw up a little.
November 9th, 2007 at 7:56 am
You both missed the point (sorry you’re sick BettyLou). The council members read their emails. 20 emails from the ‘usual suspects’ will not sway their opinions. 1000 emails might. If people can’t be bothered to send an email, then either they agree with the decision, don’t care either way, or think its not worth the effort. I think no email is saying you support the council’s decision on this issue. I know I would count it that way if I were on the council - silence means consent. I didn’t say I got a reply and it changed my mind. I said I got a reply and it was more than just one one line saying ‘thank you for your concern’.
November 9th, 2007 at 8:09 am
As I stated prior, I have no expertise in this issue only a concern to my family and friends in Brandon. I have one question, we in Brandon have our own ambulance ordinance. Okay great, it might not be what it should be but we have an ordinance.
Why did Rural Metro not apply for a lisence in Brandon if they are so concerned about the citezens of Brandon??????I’ve heard the criteria is less strengent in our ordinance but what should they care. I would think different of them if they had applied and worked with our council to rewrite the ordinance. I sort of feel like they, by not appling, said for us to ____ off. We just need to work through this mess instead of fighting and making it worse.
Any one and everyone that is at odds with this whole thing just need to sit down and work things out, unfortunatly I’m beginning to question if that is even possible. It truly is SAD.
November 9th, 2007 at 8:27 am
John, point taken. However, they simply just don’t care. Whatever it takes will be done by them to get Jay running. Yes, that’s sad. If they cared, they would’ve stopped this long ago. Good grief, even the editors at the Argus think it’s a sham.
Always listening, I’m not going to repeat it over and over…if you’d have gone to the public forums, you would’ve heard the reasons why RM wouldn’t (and didn’t) apply. And those reasons are valid nationally.
I’m tired of trying to work this out. It takes BOTH sides and our council is simply NOT willing. You’re right, it’s not possible.
And PS. Mr. Masur…..I take great offense to your statement in the Argus Leader Nov. 8th inferring the people of Brandon are too stupid to be on a QA committee. I know many medical professionals in Brandon that have FORGOTTEN more than you’ve EVER known. You are under the assumption that since you don’t have a license to run in Brandon that you can’t treat a cardiac patient that pulls up to your “place” You better check your handbook, because you are obligated by your profession to treat him, YOU JUST COULDN’T TRANSPORT HIM IN YOUR AMBULANCE. Medics carry personal jump bags in their vehicles all the time. Duh.
November 9th, 2007 at 10:16 am
people who work full time as medics usually don’t carry bags (or if they do its simple bandaging stuff) liability question. Put your livelyhood at stake when not covered by your liability insurance (malpractice ins.)
also big (BIG) difference in someone comming to you for aid, and you RESPONDING to a call your not dispatched to.
November 9th, 2007 at 10:27 am
I am an EMT and you are protected by the Good Samaritan Act. I would put my cert. on the line if it was going to save someones life.
People are getting to involved in politics when it comes to life and death situations. LOOK AT THE FACTS! Medstar has a bad rep in Aberdeen and Huron, dont meet 3 things on the committee review, and the committee has quit because they are worried about a lawsuit if something would happen.
All BS aside, if you were living in Yankton, SD and were reading this in the paper, 9 out of 10 of you would say “why the ____ is Brandon even thinking about bring such a sketchy business in to their town to protect their families.
How many years has RM been providing service is Brandon? And out of those years, how many people have died because of response times? As long as RM gets to your house, they will do everything they can to save your life and will do a heck of a job doing it!! Medstar can make it to your house in 8 minutes and if they cant provide good service what good are they?
November 9th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
FYI: It looks like Rural/Metro Corp could be having some financial difficulty of their own. They need to restate their finances from 2003 thru 2006. An after tax adjustment of 2 to 4 million. And can not meet Federal and NASDAQ filing requirements.
Also is not Rural/Metro the old Sioux Falls Ambulance that had their share of problems in Sioux Falls? Mostly with over billing charges that they paid a $500,000.00 fine for?
Their CEO makes in excess of 1 mill a year, not a bad gig for providing humanitarian health care.
Please remember not all is as it seems. The all mighty dollar does seem to rule supreme.
With my wife being an RN and in the health care profession, I have yet to meet someone in that profession that by their very nature is not good caring, dedicated professionals and I have to believe that Medstar’s employees are such also. Many in the lower ranks of the health care profession are in it not for the money, but the humanitarian care that is in their blood.
November 9th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Roger, I suggest you ask your wife what she thinks about MED-Star. If she works at either SF hospital, I already know what she is going to say. Three people from her profession resigned from the QA committee. What does that tell you about other health care professional’s opinions of MED-Star?
November 9th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
#72 WOW-What knowledge and experience do you have? I believe NONE!! I have been a Paramedic for 15 years and RM is not all people should know! It’s called a game of we are the only buisness out there so we can increase rates when we see fit? Come on!! Rip Off!! Their staff is not all experienced either!! They lost about 15 employees at once!! And they got rid of 2 general managers oops they were fired!! We will soon see the fire dept stepping in here in Sioux Falls because RM no longer has the funds. They lost all their money makers (VA and flight programs) and 911 is not a money making buisness for those of us that have been around we know!! Why doesn’t RM want to staff in Brandon 24/7? Because they will not make enough money to support it!!If people have this many questions about Med-Star then go check them out and meet and greet their staff. Go out of your way to see what they are about, and if you are not willing to do so and just listen to the gosip, then you have no room to complain!!!!
November 9th, 2007 at 9:36 pm
#75-What are you talking about? RM has NEVER lost 15 employees at once. Come on, seriously. If you are going to go into misinformation again, Jay, please stop writing. We all know that only you would attempt this nonsense. RM is not going anywhere, unlike your early departures from certain cities, Jay. Do you know, Jay, that RM just built a brand new ambulance station in SF? I would not put that into a context of “no funds” or “SF fire is taking over” would you? Yeah, that sounds as though they are loosing everything and getting ready to pull out, like you had to. PLEASE! And you hit the nail on the head with your comment of Brandon not being a “money maker”, so how do you think that you can make any? Also, on that note, RM has been serving Brandon, without it being a “money maker” for the last how many years? I do believe that places RM in the category of “serving people for all the right reasons” then doesn’t it?! Again, please stop giving lies to these already unfortunate people in this city, Jay.
November 9th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
#75 (Medstar employee)- You just said it all with your statement…..
“Why doesn’t RM want to staff in Brandon 24/7? Because they will not make enough money to support it!!”
EXACTLY! so how is Medstar going to do it?? duh! And don’t tell me because of their VA contract, because I know they underbid it drastically and can’t be making enough to fund everything.
For the hundreth time…I don’t need to “meet and greet” his staff! why??? If they’re not going to do a needle decompression, IV start or intubation, to prove themselves to me, I don’t care if they’re friendly, rude or otherwise. Just because they are polite and have a nice uniform doesn’t mean squat!!! there’s a good way to know what they’re about… go back to the argus leader articles of 1990-1993 and you’ll have enough to read for weeks.
November 9th, 2007 at 10:54 pm
Can someone please answer the following questions.
1. Why didn’t the Quality Assurance Committee physically visit the Med-Star facilities?
2. I realize the Mayor appointed the QA committee members but, why did he only utilize the Dr. & PA from Sanford (not sure where/if Mary Brooks is employed)? Why not also include a Dr. and/or PA from McGreevy?
3. Did the QA committee actually come up with any conclusive recommendation? If I am understanding correctly, they didn’t really come out one way or another. THey just came out with a few things Med-Star needed to do to meet the ordinance.
I am confused on what is really going on!
November 10th, 2007 at 7:23 am
just wondering,
I’ll have a whack at your questions.
1. Did you go tour your doctors office before you had your 1st appointment? If it was clean and well stocked and the Doc looked fantastic, does that mean he’s got SUPERIOR SKILLS as a doctor???? If your mechanic has a clean shop, does that make his a good mechanic? I’ll say this AGAIN, IT WASN’T THEIR JOB TO “CHECK OUT HIS PLACE” They were appointed to REVIEW THE APPLICATION. If we had gotten an applicant from Minneapolis would they have been expected to go look at their garage? NO. Get over the “just come and see our place” It MEANS NOTHING.
#2- Wrong again. You need to get up to speed with the history of this issue (must be one of the new Medstar employees huh?) In 2004 a DIFFERENT committee was appointed by city hall to study changing the ambulance ordinance. Amoung that committee was Dr. Chester from Brandon Avera McGreevey Clinic. They also gave a negative report.
#3- You sound like Harry Buck on the web version of the Kelo story. We can all read the report, we’re not morons. We know the difference between a good report and a bad report. They said publicly they want the council to make the recommendation because they’re elected to do so and the responsible entity. And from the what the news reports say, liable. Mr. Karber claims goverment boards can’t be sued. Well cities can.
November 10th, 2007 at 7:46 am
Just what do people know about the behind the scenes at RM? Anyone look at their books and money? Or how abour their staff?
November 10th, 2007 at 7:57 am
These blogs are just for people to “bitch” there is a whole lot of no sence found here. No one has the facts for anything! But everyone wants to complain about something. keep up the good work since you have nothing else to do!!!!!!
November 10th, 2007 at 9:08 am
does Jay pay you to sit at work and blog?
We didn’t HIRE Rural Metro, but if they had applied, they would have provided their financial statement AND all medics professional histories, background checks and drug tests. PS…we aren’t requiring drug tests. I work in the medical field and I have to have one! AND did you know if you get ONE dui at RM, you’re fired!
I have plenty to do , but I make time to try a protect my community from lowering standards for our emergency providers. Consider it a community service.
November 10th, 2007 at 10:03 am
anonymous #80Q talk about a double standard. You love to blast RM based on hearsay or what Jay tells you - but remember it was our fine leaders on city council who decided they did not need to review the financial records of Med-star nor the experience or background check of their staff. I wonder why? Maybe each our fine city leaders would care to explain their postions on the blog so everyone could see. But that would way to public for most of them(the 4 GOB’s).
November 10th, 2007 at 10:35 am
All I can say is there is only 1 person on the Brandon Fire Dept that is looking forward to MEdstar taking over and he is an employee for them. Everyone else is scared come the 15th.. If your Volunteer EMTS are scared of them, what does that say?
November 10th, 2007 at 10:37 am
#75, your hatred of RM is as transparent as others hatred of MED-Star. It would be SO easy to rip your comments apart, but what would be the point? You are not able to objectively speak to the issues, no more than those that have had run-ins with MED-Star can speak objectively, either.
#81 This blog is entitled “Will The Ambulance Issue Ever Be Settled.” This is where people go to voice their concerns. If you do not like reading these concerns…THEN DON’T!!!!!!!!!!!
November 10th, 2007 at 10:39 am
I wish those individuals who wish to bash RM or MS would go find their own blog to do so. Is it possible for those of us who are trying to sort out all of the info and trying to find a viable solution to have a non-hostile environment to blog?
Just for the record Kentsays - I am not an employee of MS and I AM up to speed on things. I am just trying to gather info and make an educated decision on this issue.
I have been a resident of Brandon for 10 years and try to keep up on issues. I moved here from a community that had a private ambulance service (SD town = population 12,000) and it worked quite well. I also am a member of the health care community (not a nurse, PA, EMT or physician) so I do know a few things about the “medical world”.
November 10th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
I’m going to recap what I think I’ve learned about this issue. I’ll paint it in broad strokes so everyone can get sick and mad at me. If nothing else, you can all agree I should crawl back under the rock I came from.
From the council side:
Brandon needs an ambulance service. RM simply takes too long because they have to drive to Brandon and then back to a hospital. The time from the original call to arrival at the hospital is important – even vital to the life of the patient. A lot of people would get in the back of the SUV and hope they make it to the hospital before they die rather than dial 911 and wait for somebody to save them. The only people that seem to want to set up an ambulance service in Brandon is MedStar. The committee did not give a recommendation because it is up to the council to take the heat and decide. They listed things that needed to be done before MedStar could qualify. Fine, we get the things done and everybody’s happy. The oversight committee resigned because of perceived liability issue and conflicts in the Brandon medical community.
From the other side(s):
The only time that matters is the time from the call to the arrival of the first responder. The Fire Department can get there as fast as an ambulance service. The Fire Department has qualified EMTs that can start working on the emergency until RM arrives. MedStar has been trying to get this job since 1999. They weren’t qualified then and aren’t qualified now. MedStar doesn’t have the 911 experience to handle the calls. The time to arrival doesn’t matter if you don’t know what to do when you get there. The Fire Department EMTs would not be allowed to handle emergencies anymore. We don’t like Jay. MedStar has a terrible track record – they pull out when they find out they can’t make enough money. MedStar doesn’t have the hospital connections in place and an ER doctor. Brandon isn’t big enough to support its own ambulance service. The committee presented reasons not to select MedStar. The council bullies too much and doesn’t listen. The oversight committee resigned to protest the choice of MedStar. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.
My interpretation:
Brandon wants an ambulance service. That’s what we voted for. We want to know that when we dial 911, it is a better alternative than driving ourselves to a doctor or hospital. We see the ads on TV that say seconds count – why should we wait for anybody? We want the hospital with the slew of doctors and expensive equipment to ensure we survive and get rid of our pain. We also want to survive the ride to the hospital.
We expect the committees and council to get things done. The council needs to be quiet and listen. They are not presenting the case and should not have an agenda, they are listening to it. The committee needs to give a recommendation in plain terms. The council doesn’t have to follow your recommendation. That’s what the executive sessions and overview meetings are for. I don’t think any controversial issue should be presented until at least one executive session is called to review it. You need to be honest and forthright, and most people are reluctant to do that in a public meeting. If you resign because you think the whole process is a sham and a danger to the community, then say that. If you resign because of liability reasons, they say you think the process was fair and should work. The people of Brandon deserve honesty and openness from both the council and the committees. You’ve both left us with comments that are being interpreted in opposite ways.
MedStar may not be the company we want, I don’t know. I’m still trying to decide if the major problem with them is Jay, Jay and the council or the EMTs. If it is the EMTs, should we require MedStar to hire new experienced ones to work with them until they get the necessary experience. Someone has to drive while someone stays with the patient (new EMTs have to be trained somehow). If the problem is Jay or the council, then I would point out no one else wanted the job. We’ll need to find someone else to apply. If the choice is MedStar or the status quo, I would ask what the election was about. We can postpone the implementation, but it will have to happen sooner or later. I always thought the city should hire their own EMTs and make them part of the fire department, but I don’t know if that is feasible. The bottom line is I don’t know and won’t pretend to know the answers. I do know the council has all the power at this point and MedStar is the only applicant. I think most of the population doesn’t care one way or the other. I think the committee should go over everything one more time with the council in private and tell them what they really think. The council should listen. Their minds may be made up, but if the committee thinks it is a mistake they need to tell them that. If you think it will work but you can’t say that because of pressure from the other side, then tell them that. Any school teacher will tell you that you need to repeat things at least three times to make sure you are heard. (and saying it louder doesn’t help – ask any parent).
I’ll go back under my rock now
November 10th, 2007 at 5:27 pm
Hey! I have a solution! Why don’t we open a hospital with an ER right here in Brandon? That way, the ambulances won’t have to worry about drive times into SF!
November 10th, 2007 at 5:54 pm
Thank you John. Excellent synopsis! I agree with your comments 100%.
November 10th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
John,
The only comment I have is when you say “Brandon wants an ambulance service” Sometimes I wonder if it’s one of those things that we want but just can’t have yet. In life in general, we don’t always get the things we want if we can’t afford to do them safely. We really are in kind of “in the middle” for population. Maybe this should just be left until a few years down the road?
November 10th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
Does anyone really know if Med-Star has quilified people? Did anyone ask for a resume’? I would think that maybe that should be looked into before we really can judge someone.
November 10th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
Kent,
You might be right, but I’m not sure we can get there from here.
November 10th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
#76 I know for a fact that about 15 of RM employess were lost at once. Several went to the flight programs including supervisors and when the talk was the fire dept taking over some went to the fire dept instead. The talk has been around for some time that the city would take over the ambulance, that’s not news. AMR was also looking this last time. Where is their new station, cause the last one that was built is on 121 s Williams and that is about 6 years old. RM served Brandon because they had to due to the contract with the county as well. And I am not Jay. I just have some facts about both companies and yes they are true facts. I’ve been in EMS for a long time and this is not my first time around the block. #84 I have seen the Brandon fire dept and Med-Star working together and doing some training, so that might not be a true statement either.
November 10th, 2007 at 10:41 pm
#91, The city council choose to not look at experience of the staff of medstar only certifion, therefore the question of street experience but jay has our answer 3 months in Kansas city equals one year in Sioux Falls.
Second question doesn’t the fire department already have some EMT’s? Wasn’t this whole mess about a paramedic staffed ambulance in Brandon?
This whole mess with liability, expereience, and qaulity would be a none issue if Jay had only met the county license requirements which is backed by REMSA, no the city had to have its own standard, lower but its own.
November 10th, 2007 at 10:43 pm
The Fire Dept has to do training with them, even though Brandon Fire doesnt want them to take over, they still have to meet in the middle and work with them..Medstar is a joke and the whole county knows it BESIDES Brandon…It is hard to go to work in SF everyday and listen to everyone make fun of Brandon and hearing them say ” I am glad my family dont live in Brandon”
November 11th, 2007 at 9:56 am
#94 REMSA only watchs RM in the City of Sioux Falls. REMSA has nothing to do with anything outside the city. Isn’t it the people of Brandon and the council’s fault if they did not look into street experience? Maybe Med-Star’s employees should get resume’s together so people could see and maybe that would answer a lot of questions that people don’t know.
#95 The fire dept does not have to do anything with anyone due to they are not a pain fire dept.
November 11th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
#93- (Jay), The facts are, RM has never lost 15 employees at once. Do you even understand how SF operates? If they lost that many medics, because all they employee are medics, they would not be able to function. Do you ever know of a time when RM did not run a 911 call? I didn’t think so. Stop lying! Every ambulance company unfortunately loses employees to flight programs, nursing, PA programs, etc. If you have so many years in EMS, you should know that is nature of the profession…people wanting more and to continue to better themselves. And again, if you have all of your “facts” straight, I would love to prove you wrong once again. RM’s new ambulance station is on 51st and Tennis. It was built less than 2 months ago. Go check it out…and “meet and greet” their medics! Just goes to show you do not know everything, Jay. Also, I am pretty sure that SF fire or AMR is “taking over” due to the fact that the city of Sioux Falls just renewed their contract and had many a praise for their service and professionalism, look at the city council meeting minutes. Again, get your “facts” straight!
November 11th, 2007 at 4:56 pm
#96 I never realized the fire dept was a pain.
November 11th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
Let me ask a silly question. Why couldn’t MedStar put the Brandon FD EMTs on their staff as part time, consultants, on call, whatever. When the fire department and MedStar are both called out, the Fire Dept EMTs could help as MedStar employees. It seems like a win-win. The volunteers get to do what they want to do - and get paid a little for it. MedStar gets a group of people serving as first reponders now. Brandon gets faster response times, and we might even avoid the second ambulance issue since the FD EMTs could handle a second ambulance if it was needed. I’m sure it’s too easy of a solution, but I thought I’d throw it out there.
November 11th, 2007 at 6:18 pm
96# Fact - Rural Metro has a brand new station opening this month at 3512 W 51st St in Sioux Falls, SD (losing your shirt usually means selling not building) Have you ever done a meet and greet with RM’s staff? Did our city Council?
Those awful greedy volunteer firefighters - only concern is being paid and volunteering for over 6000 hours last year (no pay)? (Jay owner of for profit ambulance service ” gurantee one rig without subsidy ” - tax dollars for a for profit service)
All those that love Jay and Medstar - I have some stock in Enron that I will sell cheap - it got some great upside and a nice clean building. I am sure Kenneth Lay or Jeff Skillings will be real nice to you too. Just let me know when your ready to buy?
November 11th, 2007 at 6:23 pm
By the time we get to 100 comments, don’t you think everything that could possibly be said about this issue has been said? No one is going to change anyone else’s mind on this. If you want change, make a change by running for city council yourself or voting out the incumbents.
November 11th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
#97 I AM NOT JAY!!AND NO I DO NOT GET PAID BY JAY EITHER!! I do know how RM runs I was an employee of there when it was owned by OT and then turned to RM and I continued to work there for several years. No I am not an angry past employee either, I still have friends there as well. I know for a fact that before this last contract was signed other options were looked at like the SFFD and AMR. I also know that 15 medics were lost within about 3 months. (I was there and can name them all) Maybe things have changed but not all of their staff are medics they used to employee EMT’s as well for stand by events and out of town transfers and some street work.
#98 Sorry this was spelled wrong I ment that they are not a paid service.
#101 I hear you! If these people had so much to say they should have come to the meetings and voiced their say then. But hind sight is always better then you have something to bitch about. Like if you don’t vote you really have no say in what happens to our country. But it sure gives people something to complain about later.
November 11th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
Facts,
You really think we don’t know who you are?? (or the other names you’ve posted under?) There’s only so many people that have worked for RM that now work for Medstar?
RM does not use EMT for street work.
November 11th, 2007 at 8:03 pm
#103 I have not posted under anything else SORRY!! And no I do not work for Med-Star either. I am a full-time student going to PA school. SORRY you don’t know everything you think. I just know how things have worked in the system. And Suzie Q Do know that RM does not use EMT’s for street work? Is that true? Do you know this first hand?
November 11th, 2007 at 8:23 pm
I don’t think this was set up to bicker back and forth between people. If you people want to do that get togeter somewhere else. I sure hope this is finished Monday night at the meeting.
November 11th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
Yes, I know it for sure.
November 11th, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Those of you who are against Med-Star should apply for a job on the board, and that would give you someting else to do and maybe you would be heard there.
Just a thought for you!
November 11th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
Jan,
What do you mean by that comment Jan? (”…I sure hope this is finished Monday night at the meeting….”) That meeting is ONLY for chosing a replacement for the open Ward I seat, and nothing else. Are you thinking if the council goes with another GOB, your husband Darryl, this issue will be finished? Just curious! Otherwise, this won’t be done until this council realizes they are in the wrong and need to start serving the public and not their own special interest.
November 11th, 2007 at 11:23 pm
#102/104 - whoever you are. The reason Sioux Falls looked at the FD and AMR was because the contract for 9-1-1 service was up for renewal. Duh. This is what most companies and/or cities do when a bid is up…they look around, see what else is out there…and they city of Sioux Falls STAYED WITH RURAL METRO!!! So, if you are looking for som