The sentencing of Firefighter/Paramedic Peter Cichuniec on March 1, 2024, to five years in prison for his role in the death of Elijah McClain was a sad day that provides another opportunity for reflection and introspection for all of us.
As EMS leaders and practitioners, we can all help ensure that some good comes out of the tragic and preventable death of young Elijah and the unfortunate criminal convictions of the two paramedics involved. So where do we go from here?
Let’s commit to positive change now:
1. Engage Law Enforcement
Immediately collaborate with police to clearly define roles and procedures. It must be “standard practice” for EMS to access, assess and treat all persons detained or in custody as patients whenever we are called to the scene.
2. Don’t Be a Bystander
Remind everyone that we cannot sit back and be bystanders to improper conduct when we see another human being harmed, not being treated properly, or not being cared for with dignity and respect. We have a legal and moral “duty to act” which includes a “duty to access the patient” and intervene when necessary.
3. Treat Others How You Would Want Your Family to be Treated
We must remind ourselves and each other how important it is to actively engage every situation with empathy – putting ourselves in the patient’s shoes and seeing it from the perspective of what the patient really needs from us – both as fellow humans and as health care professionals.
We must be compassionate “patient advocates” in every situation – regardless of how the patient got into their difficult situation in the first place. And we should never administer a treatment or give a drug unless that treatment is necessary for patient care.
And finally, during these challenging times let’s take the time to remind ourselves and each other of the good that we do for our communities every day. As the late Jim Page said, “EMS is among the most noble of all professions.”
We are truly blessed to be part of a profession where – in a matter of just a few seconds or minutes – we can have an immediate, positive, and profound impact on the lives of others that can change them for the rest of their lives.
And by doing our very best for those we serve, we honor that sacred calling of service that got us here in the first place – and we change our own lives for the better as well.
