EMS EXPO: Agencies need 'public value' for EMS funding
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By Jamie Thompson
EMS1 Senior Editor
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ATLANTA — A Missouri EMS division captain stressed the importance of EMS agencies and fire departments creating "public value" and working toward achieving the best public perception possible during EMS Expo.
Mike Wallace told the session in Atlanta on Thursday of the importance of being a "change agent" within organizations and the responsibility for public perception lies with each and every member.
He said fire and EMS departments are in battle with every other local government agency to secure adequate funding during the current economic climate, making it vital to stand out to the public as providing good value.
Wallace, of the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District, told the session that although fire and EMS personnel are seen by the public as the being among the most trustworthy professions, it is possible for these services to be deemed a bad "brand."
Factors that can lead to bad branding of fire and EMS departments, according to Wallace, include:
• Lack of identity
• Dirty or lack of maintenance on equipment
• Unprofessional demeanor
• Lack of vision
• Failure to embrace change
• Lack of presence
• Lack of a relationship with the press
• Failure to perform as expected
Personal accountability is vital to achieving good public value, Wallace told the session, both on and off the job.
In addition, mission and values statements need to be more than just text on a piece of paper hanging on the wall, he added, and that members need to know them.
Wallace closed the session by quoting from the former Phoenix Fire Chief Alan Brunacini, who once said, "By God, among everything else you do, what you need to do is be nice.'"
