2018-2019 News Archive
LAA Honors Legislators of the Year
Baton Rouge, Louisiana (September 27, 2018) – Louisiana’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Providers, Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) Board of Directors, and a number of distinguished guests gathered in Bossier City for the LAA’s quarterly membership meeting, where Senator Ryan Gatti and State Representative Sam Jenkins, Jr. were awarded Legislators of the Year.
The LAA whose mission is to promote, serve, improve, provide and advocate for emergency medical transportation in Louisiana recognized legislators who are committed to supporting EMS. “This award means so much,” said Senator Gatti. “Anytime we as legislators can step up to the plate with the hard-working folks in our community, it is a great thing and it is an honor and a privilege to be recognized by LAA.”
Representative Jenkins was elated to be awarded by LAA. “EMS plays a role in making sure that when an emergency occurs they are on the scene and in some instances make the difference between life and death, alongside physicians and medical centers,” he said. In recognizing the need for EMS support, especially in rural areas, he added, “We certainly hope that there is sustainability and funding for EMS services throughout the state of Louisiana and more opportunities for citizens to enroll in programs to become EMS personnel.”
“Both Representative Jenkins and Senator Gatti have been active in assisting LAA with legislation that supports EMS, and both are committed to the EMS community,” added Donna Newchurch, LAA CEO. “Both recipients consistently advocate for EMS and recognize the value of supporting initiatives that impact the citizens of Louisiana.”
One of the highest honors ever given by LAA, the Legislator of the Year Awards are the first two in the organizations near 25-year history.
October 16, 2018
Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) supported Allen Parish Ambulance Service at its Open House commemorating the provider’s 40th Anniversary and grand opening of its new 9100 sq. ft. facility. “On one side we have crew quarters, the other side is our operations business office and the middle is the bay, which can hold five trucks,” said Lennie Boulet, Allen Parish Ambulance Service Executive Director.
Over 100 guests toured the facility and celebrated with Allen Parish as the ribbon was cut out front. “This size facility proves that small rural ambulance services can provide just as good service as a big city and we don’t think small locations are second to anything,” added Aaron Johnson, Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District EMS Director.
LAA is always proud to celebrate the achievements of our EMS Providers as “We Speak with One Unified Voice.” Congratulations to Allen Parish!
October 19, 2018
Asset of the Month – October 2018
Defibrillators can make a life-saving impact on a patient who is experiencing potentially fatal arrhythmias. That’s why this month we are proud to feature our Medtronic Lifepak 1000 AED as our Asset of the Month.
According to the manufacturer, “The device provides an advanced automated external defibrillator (AED) platform that can be upgraded and configured to meet a wide range of emergency response needs. The all new CPR MAX technology included in the device allows medical directors of emergency medical services (EMS) the flexibility to implement protocols as they evolve, improving patient care.”
LRAA has four of these products on hand in good condition. The Lifepaks are fully equipped with Pediatric pads and extra batteries. You never know when you may need to stop a potentially fatal cardiac arrest.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
October 19, 2018
Louisiana Sends Critical, Life-Saving Response Teams to Florida for Hurricane Michael Help
On Wednesday, October 10th, The Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) deployed five strike teams consisting of 25 EMS units and over 60 Emergency Medical Services Practitioners and support personnel for medical response to support local emergency medical services in areas impacted by Hurricane Michael. LAA coordinated Louisiana’s EMS deployments through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) with organizational support from the Louisiana Department of Health.
“Our deployed units were on the ground for over a week supporting the movement of patients, evacuation of hospitals and 911 response,” explained Donna Newchurch, CEO of LAA. “Based on the history in the state of Louisiana, LAA’s natural disaster response teams spring into action at a moment’s notice to assist our neighboring states just as we would for our own state.
The ambulance strike teams included emergency medical services professionals from Acadian Ambulance, Lafayette; Advanced EMS, Minden; A-Med Ambulance, New Orleans; Desoto Parish EMS, Mansfield; Jackson Parish EMS, Jonesboro; Med Express EMS, Alexandria; Northshore EMS, Bogalusa; and Pafford EMS, Ruston. Several representatives from the LAA and LA Department of Health are also deployed with the ambulance strike teams to coordinate activities of the deployed team members.
“Louisiana differs from others state’s responding agencies become we’ve been there an know what it is like to go through this type of disaster, which makes us get the job done well in a professional manner,’ said Rob Daughdril, LAA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. Louisiana’s team received high praises for their work in Florida, making it the best EMAC response in the nation. “It was our turn to give back what we have received,” added Daughdril, “Handing the work with professionalism and pride as our teams took care of the people in Florida, has made this a very positive experience and we couldn’t be prouder.”
Check out the video here.
October 22, 2018
Evidence-Based Guidelines (EBG) for Fatigue Risk Management in EMS
The National Association of State EMS Officials (NASEMSO) partnered with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine to develop “Evidence- Based Guidelines (EBG) for Fatigue Risk Management in Emergency Medical Services” published in the journal Prehospital Emergency Care inJanuary 2018. The aim of the guidelines is to mitigate the effects of fatigue with recommendations based on a comprehensive evaluation of the best available evidence related to numerous fatigue mitigation strategies. Now, as an adjunct to the guidelines, NASEMSO and Pitt have joined forces to produce an Implementation Guidebook to complement the scientific papers with a condensed summary of each recommendation and sample policy statement templates that may be tailored/edited to the needs of local agencies.
Fatigue is a threat to the safety of EMS personnel, their patients, and the public. The odds of injury, medical error, patient adverse events, and safety compromising behaviors are higher among fatigued EMS personnel than non-fatigued personnel. Ambulance crashes, line of duty deaths, and patient mortality have been linked to sleep and fatigue of EMS personnel.
Full access to “Evidence Based Guidelines for Fatigue Risk Management in Emergency Medical Services” is available online in Prehospital Emergency Care at https://tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10903127.2017.1376137. All companion materials, including background information, systematic reviews, evidence tables, and expert commentaries are also available.
Work performed on this guidebook was supported with funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to NASEMSO. The information, views, and/or opinions contained in this guidebook/document are those of the authors and not necessarily those of NHTSA.
The Guidebook can be downloaded at www.emsfatigue.org.
October 29, 2018
End the Epidemic LA Grant will Allow Federal Funding for Research
Recently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded a $200,000 grant as part of a $386 million project allowing federal funding to support “End the Epidemic LA” which will aid in the prevention, treatment and recovery of the opioid crisis in rural Louisiana.
End the Epidemic LA was launched in November of 2016 and is the initiative of a consortium composed of the Louisiana Rural Ambulance Alliance and the Louisiana Attorney General’s office. The initiative is dedicated to identifying and supporting treatment for the prevention of substance use disorder in Louisiana through education and outreach. Through the grant award, members have grown and include the Louisiana Association for Behavioral Health in Baton Rouge, Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District in Jonesboro, and Pafford EMS of Ruston.
Since 1999, death by drug overdose has tripled in the state of Louisiana making it among the top ten states for drug overdose death rates. With the occurrence of opioid misuse on the rise, End the Epidemic LA is committed to educating as many Louisiana residents as possible on the risks associated with opioid misuse.
“The opioid epidemic is a pivotal challenge for many rural places,” said Anne Hazlett, US Department of Agriculture Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development. “More than a health concern, the opioid crisis is an issue of rural prosperity and will take the commitment, collaboration and creativity of a wide range of partners to address.”
“Through End the Epidemic Louisiana we are committed to reducing the occurrence of opioid misuse through activities such as community and provider education as well as expanding peer recovery and treatment options,” added Andrea Simoneaux, LRAA Consortium Director – End the Epidemic LA.
“The focus of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is multifaceted,” added LRAA CEO, Donna Newchurch, “and includes prevention, treatment and recovery; data on the epidemic; and research on pain and addiction; and pain management; and targeting overdose-reversing drugs. Though there is a long road ahead towards completely alleviating the opioid epidemic, by focusing on each of these factors we are off to a strong start.”
The one-year grant will allow for a deeper dive into research and analytics to identify opportunities and develop a detailed plan to address prevention, treatment and recovery. While focusing on rural areas of the state of Louisiana, End the Epidemic LA will likely influence the entire state. Vist https://www.endtheepidemicla.org for more information.
November 14, 2018
Asset of the Month – November 2018
Stored on a heavy-duty trailer, the Onan 150KW Diesel Generator provides a portable power supply. The fast and convenient functions of the generator are useful, especially in the event of an emergency.
LRAA has one of these products on hand in good condition. View our full Asset Catalog for more information and for a full description of our additional generators.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
November 14, 2018
Alliance Membership Meeting: November 2018
Our November Alliance Membership Meeting was packed with presentations on topics like EMS Cost Reports, the EMS State Licensing Portal and a segment about Protecting Providers Against Financial Attacks. With an interactive demonstration of a new, fully equipped stretcher manufactured by Ferno and a surprise birthday celebration for our Board President, Gary Peters, all attendees enjoyed a day filled with education networking at Chateau St. Denis in Natchitoches, Louisiana.
Louisiana Ambulance Alliance is excited to close 2018 having made lots of progress and we look forward to continuing the work of our industry as we “Speak With One Unified Voice” for EMS Providers throughout the state of Louisiana.
LAA’s 2019 Membership Meetings:
February 13, 2019: The Wesley Center – Woodworth, LA
April 17, 2019: Baton Rouge EMS – Baton Rouge, LA
July 31, 2019: Bossier Parish Civic Center – Bossier, LA
November 13, 2019: Chateau St. Denis – Natchitoches, LA
Register here for the next Alliance Membership Meeting.
December 13, 2018
Asset of the Month – December 2018
Fully loaded with a Satellite Communication System on the roof, four twin beds, a kitchenette and a small bathroom, the 2005 Pace Cargo/Command 28’ Bumper Pull Trailer is sure to meet your needs. Built on the industry’s highest standards, the trailer is in great condition and is equipped for heavy-duty disaster command.
LRAA has one of these products on hand in good condition. View our full Asset Catalog for more information and for a full description of our
additional trailers.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
December 13, 2018
Happy Holidays from our LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS family to yours!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Christmas and New Years:
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Monday, December 24, 2018
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Tuesday, December 25, 2018
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Monday, December 31, 2018
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Tuesday, January 1, 2019
For questions, contact Goldie at goldie@newchurchassoc.com.
December 17, 2018
Asset of the Month – January 2019
Gas powered and equipped with a MEDLITE patient transport skid and option second row seat (without patient transport equipment), the 4×4 Utility Kawasaki Mule 3010 us in great condition.
LRAA has one of these products on hand. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of each.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
January 2, 2019
Influenza Surveillance Report for Louisiana (Week 52: December 22-29, 2018)
Attached is the Influenza Surveillance Report for Louisiana for Week 52, December 22nd – December 29th.
See below for a summary of activity:
Influenza activity increased this week in Louisiana. Rhino/Enteroviruses, RSV, and Coronaviruses represent the majority of non-influenza viruses reported.
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ILI activity in the state is 5.9%, which is above the regional baseline of 4.0%.
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CSTE flue code for Louisiana is Widespread.
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ILI indicator code for Louisiana is High.
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Percent positivity of tests in Louisiana is 8.6%.
Influenza like illness (ILI) activity in the state is above the regional baseline of 4.0%. Last year’s flu activity was at 10.2% and caused quite a bit of “energy” with hospital bed reporting to monitor surge. While there are no requests of ESF8 network at this time, preventative actions such as hand-washing and encouraging flu-shots are being promoted by media outlets.
See full report here.
January 7, 2019
Office Holiday Closing – MLK Day
Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following day in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr.:
Monday, January 21, 2019
For questions, contact Verinique at communications@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
January 14, 2019
Asset of the Month – February 2019
The 1000-gallon Field PUP Fuel Trailer is perfect for transporting oil in an emergency. The trailer, which takes diesel fuel only was purchased by The Alliance in 2013 and is in good condition.
LRAA has one of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of each.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
February 12, 2019
Attention Medical Directors and EMS Services: FDA Generic / EpiPen Extension Information
Please visit the links below to see the information regarding existing FDA extensions for Generic / Epipens and EpiPen juniors. The links below have NDC numbers, lot numbers and new expiration dates.
If you have EpiPen juniors that are from a different manufacturer or with different lot numbers not noted here, please contact us and inform us of the manufacturer/NDC numbers and lot numbers, and we will ask the FDA about those in particular.
Contact us at communications@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
Related Article Links:
February 18, 2019
LAA Legislative Visits: North Louisiana
Recently, the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) team began visiting legislators in North Louisiana in preparation for the 2019 sessions at the Baton Rouge Capitol. LAA Policy Director – Curry Landry alongside LAA Lobbyist – Mike Thibadeaux and LAA Communications and Marketing Specialist – Verinique Bailey, met with various legislators and EMS providers in North Louisiana.
The first of the visits were to State Representative Dodie Horton, State Representative Larry Bagley and State Representative Frank Hoffmann. LAA staff was joined by LAA EMS providers from Bossier Parish EMS, Desoto Parish EMS, and Acadian Ambulance Service to bring some familiarity to the legislators.
“LAA acts a conduit for information between the providers and the legislators,” explained Landry. “While working with legislators, LAA informs them about the issues facing the ambulance industry and why certain changes to laws are necessary or not.
Our presence at the capitol in Baton Rouge and throughout the state, makes exchanging information and answering the legislators’ questions efficient and easy. Our members really help enhance this relationship by having great relationships with their legislators.”
“It’s so important to visit Legislators after and before session to get them acquainted with LAA and the EMS providers,” added Thibadeaux. “We want them to know we can visit, accompanied by EMS providers in their district, and not ask for anything, but rather form relationships. We want them to know who we are, not just when we have an ask of them and they appreciate us for that.”
“It is important to be proactive instead of reactive when it comes to legislative sessions,” added Landry, “which allows LAA to meet with legislators in an environment with less urgency and pressure.”
For that reason, LAA plans to continue meeting and building relationships with legislators throughout the state of Louisiana in the coming weeks to advocate for the EMS industry through pre-session meetings, legislative events and during session.
February 22, 2019
Office Holiday Closings: Mardi Gras
Happy Mardi Gras from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Mardi Gras:
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Monday, March 04, 2019
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Tuesday, March 05, 2019
For questions, contact Yvette at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
February 28, 2019
Asset of the Month – March 2019
The Cummins Diesel Generator is a fully integrated generation system, bolted to a Longhorn Utility Trailer for easy transportation in an emergency. The generator, purchased in 2007, remains in good condition and is ran regularly to ensure its functioning.
LRAA has over 100 assets available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone or by email.
March 6, 2019
Shreveport Fire 2nd Annual EMS ‘MADNESS’ Symposium
The Shreveport Fire Department will be hosting the 2ndAnnual EMS ‘MADNESS’ Symposium with guest speaker, Mr. Ken Bouvier, retired Deputy Chief of New Orleans EMS. The event will also feature a talented lineup of guest speakers, Madness Minutes (Q&A) and door prizes.
Date: Friday, May 24, 2019
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Shreveport Convention Center
400 Caddo Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
$50 Per Person $225 Per Squad (5) $275 For Vendor Booth
***Checks should be made payable to North Shreveport Business Association and mailed to 1500 North Market, Shreveport, LA 71107. Credit card payments are accepted online at www.shreveportnorth.org under Quick Look.
For more information, call (318)673-6766.
March 26, 2019
Asset of the Month – April 2019
The 2006 Forest River-Salem 29’ Bumper Pull Trailer has a satellite communication system on its roof for convenience during an emergency response. The trailer houses four bunk beds, a queen loft bed, a kitchenette/dinette and more. In good condition, the trailer is perfect for disaster command.
LRAA has one of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of each.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
April 11, 2019
Alliance Membership Meeting: April 2019
2019 is becoming quite the year for the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA), as the organization, comprised of over 60 EMS providers throughout the state of Louisiana, gathered for its second Alliance Membership Meeting of the year. The meeting, which was held at East Baton Rouge Parish EMS in Baton Rouge, LA, covered a wide variety of topics such as operations, supplemental payments, the 2019 legislative slate and more.
Stryker representatives offered a wealth of information about the company’s products and services.
“The purpose of the meeting was to cover upcoming legislation as well as update providers about grants and contracts,” said Daniel Landry, End the Epidemic Louisiana – Consortium Director. Alliance providers thoroughly discussed a variety of bills and voiced their opinions concerning each to best benefit the Alliance as a whole.
“I always takeaway important information that I need to know, but can’t always keep up with,” added Tracy Wold, Alliance Treasurer of the Board. “I, like other providers, need and benefit from the expertise of the Alliance leadership.” The Alliance leadership and the insight of Louisiana EMS providers alike are what keep the organization moving in a direction of progress and peak performance.
Special thanks to the meeting sponsors:
Stryker, Insight Billing Corporation, and End the Epidemic
LAA’s 2019 Membership Meetings:
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July 31, 2019: Bossier Parish Civic Center – Bossier, LA
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November 13, 2019: Chateau St. Denis – Natchitoches, LA
Register here for the next Alliance Membership Meeting.
April 22, 2019
Nearly powerful enough to light an entire football field, the Prism Inflatable Light is perfect for disaster response. The light is foldable and portable for ease of transportation and takes only seconds to inflate. It can be plugged into a regular 110 outlet or run with a generator.
LRAA has twelve of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of each.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
May 9, 2019
Office Holiday Closing: Memorial Day
Happy Memorial Day from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Memorial Day:
Monday, May 27, 2019
For questions, contact Yvette LeBlanc at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
May 21, 2019
Pelican Institute for Public Policy: What You Need to Know About Medicaid Crowd Out
In recent weeks, lawmakers have focused on the tens of thousands of ineligible individuals who improperly received benefits under Louisiana’s Medicaid expansion. But, fighting waste, fraud and abuse in Medicaid should also include reforms to address another important issue—crowd out. The term refers to Louisiana residents who have dropped their existing coverage to enroll in Medicaid expansion—in other words, government programs “crowding out” private insurance. Here’s what you need to know about crowd out and Medicaid expansion:
TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE HAVE DROPPED PRIVATE COVERAGE TO ENROLL IN MEDICAID
Recently, the Pelican Institute filed a public records request to obtain internal Louisiana Department
of Health (LDH) data showing that for much of 2016 and 2017, several thousand individuals per month dropped their existing health coverage to enroll in Medicaid expansion. With enrollment in Medicaid expansion averaging approximately 15,000 individuals per month in 2017, the data indicates a significant percentage of enrollees dropped their prior coverage to joining Medicaid expansion…
May 21, 2019
Louisiana Health Alert Network (LA HAN) – First Responder Immunization Recommendations
This is a message from the Louisiana Department of Health Emergency Operations Center (LDH EOC) to share a message from the LDH Office of Public Health Immunization Program in an effort to urge all first responders in Louisiana to review their vaccination status. Please read the message that follows from Dr. Frank Welch, Medical Director of the Immunization Program, regarding this subject. Please share and distribute this message with relevant stakeholders and partners through your own distribution channels.
Immunization Recommendations for Disaster Responders
This Health Alert message is to urge all first responders in the State of Louisiana to review your vaccination status with your healthcare provider, and update any needed vaccines prior to hurricane season. We encourage all first responders to be up-to-date on all age-appropriate vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP), including a yearly influenza vaccination.
Vaccinations at the time of an emergency can sometimes delay or interfere with response activities. Some vaccines require completion of a series for full protection. So the time to prepare is now!
Required immunizations for First Responders:
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Tetanus: Responders should receive a tetanus booster if they have not been vaccinated for tetanus during the past 10 years. Td (tetanus/diphtheria) or Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) can be used; getting the Tdap formula for one tetanus booster during adulthood is recommended to maintain protection against pertussis.
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Hepatitis B vaccine: Hepatitis B vaccine series for persons who will be performing direct patient care or otherwise expected to have contact with bodily fluids.
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Hepatitis A vaccine: Vaccine w ill take at least one to two weeks to provide substantial immunity.
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MMR: Measles/Mumps/Rubella combination vaccine. You need 2 doses of the MMR vaccine to be protected for life.
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In addition, all employees should be screened by their physician office for all age and occupation appropriate protective vaccinations, including a yearly influenza vaccine.
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Please share this email with any and all corrections employees and agencies so that all can be prepared.
If you have any questions about adult or employee vaccination, please contact the Louisiana Department of Health Immunization Program at (504) 568-2600 for more information.
LDH EOC
June 4, 2019
New Property, Same Unified Voice
On a 4.8-acre property in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, sits the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance’s (LAA) newly acquired property. Formerly, a veterinary clinic, the 9,224 square foot building space is the future home of the organization’s headquarters.
The property will be the hub of LAA/LRAA administration, assets and be an additional resource for emergency response. With fully functional meeting and training spaces, the central Louisiana location will be the host for many events and meetings. “The property is a member benefit and will be designed with and for the members,” said Donna Newchurch, CEO. “Member input will be sought as planning begins and continues.”
With a recent visit to the property, LAA/LRAA staff is excited to offer feedback in the construction process.
Construction is expected to begin late this summer, with an early 2020 completion and ribbon cutting.
June 7, 2019
Asset of the Month – June 2019
The 2006 Forest River 5th Wheel Gooseneck Command Trailer features a kitchenette/dinette, sleep quarters and more, with a satellite communication system on its roof for ease of use during an emergency response.
LRAA has one of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of each.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
June 7, 2019
Ready, Set, PREPARE!: Hurricane Season Preparedness Workshop
With disaster response being a key function of the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA), preparation is highly important and that was the main goal when providers from various parts of the state recently met in Woodworth, Louisiana.
The meeting, led by LAA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Rob Daughdril, drew over 30 EMS personnel to discuss both the strengths and opportunities of the 2018 storm season and to gear up for 2019.
“We have the best, most energetic and hard-working EMS personnel in the country,” boasted Daughdril. “Our surge response teams are necessary both in and outside of Louisiana because they know what they’re doing, how to do it and can mobilize very quickly to a disaster area.”
Staying informed is key to emergency preparation, which is how LAA/LRAA achieved success in the 2018 deployment to Florida to assist with Hurricane Michael relief. “It was a team effort, done with in the most superior way without hesitation,” added Daughdril.
As the 2019 hurricane season begins, LAA/LRAA prides itself on taking a proactive stance by informing sub-contractors of policies, procedures and response criteria in advance.
June 19, 2019
CAAS Announces Release of GVS V2.0
The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) is pleased to announce the release of Ground Vehicle Standard (GVS) V2.0. GVS V2.0 has been in the development process for approximately two years and is an upgrade from the V1.0 version first released in 2016.
The new ambulance vehicle section of GVS V2.0 contains updates and edits from the prior version, and includes the latest safety, quality and compliance requirements for new production ambulances. It also provides a vehicle certification labeling system for use by the Final Stage Ambulance Manufacturer (FSAM), as well as mandatory documentation templates for compliance and weight/payload information.
In addition, GVS V2.0 contains a completely new comprehensive Remount Standard. The GVS Remount Standard provides minimum requirements for both Remounters and Remounted Ambulances, including specific requirements for vehicle production processes and quality control. The GVS Remount Standard also provides a vehicle labeling system and documentation templates for Remounters to use in order to verify compliance with the standard. This standard is intended for use by FSAMs, independent Remounters and EMS Providers who are remounting their own vehicles internally.
The complete GVS V2.0 document is available at no charge on our website www.groundvehiclestandard.org, as well as a listing of GVS registered Final Stage Ambulance Manufacturers and Remounters who have qualified to participate in our program. The CAAS GVS Standard is designed for use by EMS regulators and providers for use in their vehicle requirement processes.
CAAS is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for its standard development program.
For more information, contact the CAAS GVS Administrator Mark Van Arnam.
June 24, 2019
Office Holiday Closings: Independence Day
Happy Independence Day from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Independence Day:
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Thursday, July 04, 2019
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Friday, July 05, 2019
For questions, contact Yvette at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
June 27, 2019
State of Emergency: July 11, 2019
The State Emergency Operations Center will activate to Level One on Thursday, July 11th at 6:00 a.m. This will be a full activation.
Alliance staff and leadership are closely monitoring the Gulf as well as river and levee levels. We have initiated both leadership and staff calls, communicated with ESF-8 contract contacts, and are communicating with and collecting information from our surge sub-contractors.
We will begin sharing information as it becomes available, but we askthat you monitor your e-mails closely. We apologize in advance for any repeat/redundant messages you may receive from us.
Should you need to contact us, please call the Alliance Emergency Response dedicated line at 225-678-4091 in lieu of the office line as this line will be manned 24/7.
July 10, 2019
Hurricane Barry: A Test of Preparation
As Hurricane Barry made its way through the Gulf of Mexico, the Louisiana (Rural) Ambulance Alliance (LAA/LRAA) team was hard at work hoping for the best, yet preparing for the worst. The LAA/LRAA team recalled the information presented in the recent Hurricane Season Preparedness Workshop as a guide to success.
Days prior to the activation of a State of Emergency, the Alliance initiated leadership and staff calls, communicated with Emergency Support Function (ESF)-8 contract contacts and communicated and gathered information from surge subcontractors, primarily under the leadership of Emergency Response Coordinator, Rob Daughdril and LAA/LRAA CEO, Donna Newchurch.
“My word for this experience is ‘opportunity’,” said Donna Newchurch, LAA/LRAA CEO. “With Barry looming and promising but not quite delivering a devesting blow, we had several opportunities and seized them all!” With reference to the establishment of an Emergency Operations Center, maintaining communication with leadership, staff, subcontractors and more, the Alliance truly displayed how important preparedness is in the work it does.
LAA/LRAA subcontractors throughout the state of Louisiana pledged over 50 EMS units and response teams were ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. “The one opportunity that was lacking, the opportunity to respond, was surely not missed,” added Newchurch. “We will keep our fingers crossed that we continue to miss the response opportunity for the rest of Hurricane Season.”
Hurricane Barry is one of several predicted storms for the 2019 Hurricane Season and the Alliance will continue to take a proactive approach to each.
July 15, 2019
Rural Community Ambulance Agency Transformation Self-Assessment and Resources Now Available!
We are pleased to announce the availability a new EMS resource from the Technical Assistance and Services Center (TASC), a program of the National Rural Health Resource Center. This resource was supported by the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy and coordinated by TASC. Please widely share this resource with rural ambulance agencies and partners as appropriate.
This resource helps ambulance agency leaders in rural America assess their agency’s readiness to transform to the level of care that is a people-centered and rewards positive patient outcomes through value-based payment. It provides assistance to rural ambulance agency leaders in succeeding with moving from volume to value in their agency’s culture and operations.
Rural Community Ambulance Agency Transformation consists of a self-assessment and associated resource collections in the areas of the Critical Access Hospital Blueprint for Performance Excellence, adapted specifically for rural ambulance agencies, from the Baldrige Excellence Framework for Health Care. Leaders are encouraged to complete the assessment periodically to monitor their progress and receive updated resources to guide their continued journey. The self-assessment and resource collections Include:
July 15, 2019
Asset of the Month – July 2019
The Centurion 12500 Gas Generator is a highly demanded asset for standby power solutions. Its portable functioning allows it to be conveniently placed on a Disaster Response Trailer.
LRAA has one of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description of it.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
July 17, 2019
National Literature on Safe Transport of Children
The hope of Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is to give Louisiana’s EMS agencies a starting point for resources to develop protocols and policies in their operations. The agencies who are already ahead of the game can review the information and get reassurance that they are doing the right thing!
NHTSA Safe Transport of Children in Ground Ambulances – This site hosts a few links to resources specific to transporting children in ambulances. One of the links in the article is the 2012 NHTSA Best-Practice Recommendations for Transporting Children in Ground Ambulances.
That is a worthwhile read, as it addresses transporting children who are patients or passengers (perhaps of parents who may be the patient).
NASEMSO Safe Transport of Children by EMS: Interim Guidance – This is a quick, valuable read that acknowledges a lack of research on the topic of safe transport of pediatric patients; however, it also addresses the need for a unified voice on the topic while research is ongoing. This guidance is endorsed by private parties, universities, federal partners, and state officials.
The State of Pediatric Transport: EMS World – This is an easy read about EMS agencies adopting a culture of safety. There are infographics about safely transporting pediatric patients. **EMSC does not endorse or have an opinion about any of the named pediatric restraint systems in this brochure.
American Academy of Pediatric Policy Statement: Equipment for Ambulances – This is a wonderful resource for EMS agencies to utilize when developing pediatric patient care protocols and equipment lists. Under the heading “I. Injury-Prevention Equipment” it states “all individuals in an ambulance need to be restrained.” This is bullet number 1 in that heading.
August 2, 2019
Alliance Membership Meeting: July 2019
Quarterly Membership Meetings for the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) are key resources for over 60 EMS providers, throughout the state of Louisiana, who are members. The summer meeting was hosted at the Bossier Civic Center in Bossier, Louisiana, and, like previous meetings, covered Alliance business and a variety of topics related to the EMS industry.
There’s lots of planning that goes into a successful meeting. “Preparing for a membership meeting begins months in advance,” said Yvette LeBlanc, LAA’s Administrative Assistant. “In fact, our team works together to make meetings successful by reserving the venue, contracting caters, securing meeting sponsors, and gathering the materials for the packets and agendas.” Yvette takes a lead role in ensuring arrangements are made for each meeting.
Among the July 2019 meeting’s presenters was Asbel Montes, Vice President of Government Relations and Reimbursement of Acadian Companies, who discussed the ET3 Model which included the new eligibility criteria for participation, the application process for participation, the revised rates to be paid under the model, performance requirements and more. In addition, LAA/LRAA staff presented on assets, communications and marketing, surge response and more. Megan Hedges, LAA Consortium Director for End the Epidemic Louisiana, updated meeting attendees by stating, “We are working on our Needs Assessment, Strategic Plan, Workforce Plan and Sustainability Plan.” Hedges joined the Alliance staff earlier this year and is making progress with the End the Epidemic partnership and grant.
“As a volunteer of my local fire department for a number of years, I have an appreciation and understanding of how important the Alliance’s role is in the rural areas of our state,” added LeBlanc. “Alliance Membership Meetings ensure that the providers are informed and prepared to act in many different capacities throughout Louisiana.”
Special Thanks to the Meeting Sponsors:
LAA’s 2019 Membership Meetings:
November 13, 2019: Chateau St. Denis – Natchitoches, LA
Register here for the next Alliance Membership Meeting.
August 6, 2019
Office Holiday Closing: Labor Day
Happy Labor Day from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following day in observance of Labor Day:
Monday, September 2, 2019
For questions, contact Yvette at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
August 23, 2019
Asset of the Month – September 2019
Traffic Safety Cones are invaluable for traffic safety and control during emergency responses. The 18-inch cones are easy to stack and carry during a transport.
LRAA has several of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
September 6, 2019
Louisiana Opioid Action Summit Strategizes Implementation
Early September called for attention to the opioid epidemic affecting the state at the 2019 Louisiana Opioid Action Summit. The three-day event, which drew over 300 registered guests to the Harbor Center in Slidell, LA, featured a host of dynamic presenters from various industries and backgrounds with one common goal – to direct strategies in local communities for community response, healthcare and public health.
“With the work that I’ve done with End the Epidemic Louisiana, the Opioid Action Summit assured us that we are on the right path,” said Megan Hedges, Consortium Director – End the Epidemic Louisiana. “While we’ve been focused on prevention, planning and education, other associations have been focused on implementation. Education is a big factor in prevention and the support of those suffering from the disease of addiction aids in their recovery and sobriety.”
Breakout sessions covered topics like Social Determinants of Addiction, Successful Interventions with First Responders and Law Enforcement, Addressing Shame and Stigma in Addiction, Utilization of Peers in Recovery and Treatment Engagement and lots more.
“The facilitators really understood the importance of unifying the community’s work in addressing the opioid epidemic. By first creating a common ground and then exploring each of the respective topics in depth, the summit was an exchange of knowledge,” added Verinique Bailey, Communications and Marketing Manager. “Not only were the breakout sessions informative, but they were backed with real data, real facts and real testimonies.”
The event challenged its attendees to spring into action using the resources provided and pushed for a hopeful improvement in statistics by as early as next year.
September 9, 2019
EMS Drug Shortage Procedure and Acknowledgement Memorandum
The drug shortage issue has not been resolved and EMS providers are still dealing with drug shortages on a daily basis throughout the state. This important acknowledgement and procedure memorandum makes it possible for providers of the state to deliver essential services while dealing with a lack of available medications.
September 13, 2019
Accepting Applications: Digital Media and Graphic Design Intern
Recently, the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance announced its plans to hire a Digital Media and Graphic Design Intern under the direction of the Communications and Marketing Manager, Verinique Bailey. The internship descripion is below and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Digital Media and Graphic Design Intern Job Description
Please submit application requirements to communications@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
August 7, 2019
Asset of the Month – August 2019
The Portable Motorola XTS 2500/5000 Radios are key assets for communicating during disaster response. The handheld radios conveniently connect first responders who need reliable means of communication during an emergency response.
LRAA has over 100 of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
August 7, 2019
GOHSEP and ESF17 held a conference call at 2pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2019.
Threat:
Ransomware attack in schools – Morehouse, Sabine, Tangipahoa, E. Carroll.
Background:
“ESF17” is a newly created ESF to coordinate actions and communications with parishes and state agencies related to cyber-attacks.
Highlights:
LSP Cyber Crime Unit (CCU) – collected evidence from 28 computers in last 96 hours; identified 8 networks that have been infected. Will continue to extract Indicators of Compromise.
DOE – all schools still scheduled to open on time. Map on slide 6 identifies which parishes have completed assessments. State Assistance allocated in the following parishes: Morehouse, Ouachita, Tangipahoa, and Sabine. Sabine has been completed. The end-game is to get folks to the purple (issues resolved).
There are 6 phases identified as a Critical IT Task List for school districts (slide 7) 47 schools have completed all phases receiving “Carbon Black” = finished. 14 schools are in various phases of 2-5. There are a total of 69 Parish School districts.
Indicators of Compromise include the following:
· Traffic to or from Pastebin.com (104.20.209.21) in the previous two weeks
· Any Anti-Virus hits for either Trickbot or Emotet
· New Accounts created with elevated privileges
· Outbound web traffic to ports 445, 447, 449, or 8082
· Outbound and Inbound traffic to ports 5985 or 16993
· Unusual remote connections either through RDP, LogMeIn, or TeamViewer
· Installed services with unusual names/created scheduled tasks with unusual names or paths
· Unusual files in user’s roaming directories
· Advapi32.dll process being used as a hook for Explorer.exe
· The presence of ad_driver.sys in \\C\Users\ADMINI~1\AppData\Local\Temp\1\
· Creation of new user accounts with broad privileges
· Odd processes such as svchost.exe tied to open ports, including port 80
ASPR TRACIE has identified resources for Cybersecurity Checklists for Healthcare Facilities:
View the Update:
UFOUO_LA-SAFE_CCU_Ryuk_Indicators_Update-080719[2].pdf
Request:
Infected organizations are encouraged to not pay a ransom to criminal actors. Organizations who believe they have observed the following Indicators of Compromise should contact the fusion center at 1-800-434-8007 or lafusion.center@la.gov.
August 8, 2019
Passing the Torch: A New Board President
“Thank you, guys, for all of the support that ya’ll have given this board,” said Gary Peters, Louisiana (Rural) Ambulance Alliance (LAA/LRAA) Immediate Past President, as he recalled his time in the role. Peters’ resignation from his role as president was announced at the Alliance Membership Meeting in late July, as he graciously passed the torch to then LAA/LRAA Vice-President, Jeff Watson.
The Alliance Board of Directors serves an important role in leadership and decision making in the organization. The team, comprised of a very diverse group of professionals in the EMS industry, commits themselves to achieving the organization’s mission of advocating for and promoting emergency medical transport and more in the state of Louisiana.
Newly installed Board President, Watson, added, “I look forward to continuing to work with the staff and board to move the organization forward in a positive direction for the providers in our state.” He continues, “I know we have a great leader in Donna and she will continue to provide us with the vision our organization needs moving forward.”
With much respect to Peters’ success as the president, Alliance members celebrated the transition and were happy to learn that while Peters no longer holds the title of president, he will still be a resource to the board and the organization as a whole.
Elections will be held later this year for the positions of president, vice-president, member-at-large and secretary.
August 15, 2019
Roundtable Report: DEA 360 Strategy, End the Epidemic and S.A.F.E Initiative
“Opioid addiction has reached a wide-ranging demographic in the New Orleans area, and the number of agencies, organizations and providers looking to address the problem is also increasing,” explained Natalie Chandler, Editor – New Orleans CityBusiness. “CityBusiness held a roundtable July 22 with eight professionals on the local and state level who discussed the challenges of addressing substance abuse disorders…”
September 18, 2019
After Action Review: Hurricane Dorian
Earlier this week, our team gathered at our Baton Rouge office for an After-Action Review (AAR) of Louisiana Ambulance Alliance’s (LAA) deployment to Florida to assist with Hurricane Dorian relief. AARs give our team an opportunity to thoroughly discuss surge events from start to finish and are key in reflecting on strengths and opportunities for improvement.
“After Action Reviews are important because they allow us to sit down and evaluate what we did well and what we need to improve upon,” explained Rob Daughdril, LAA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.
The meeting covered unit registration, demobilization, assets and supplies, support staff and communication. “We are looking forward to improving our operating procedures based on past experiences,” added Donna Newchurch, LAA CEO.
LAA prides itself on timely and effective response and AARs ensure the organization continues to exceed expectations. As the 2019 Hurricane Season continues, LAA remains on standby.
September 20, 2019
Asset of the Month – October 2019
With a Satellite Communication System installed on its roof, the 2006 Forest River-Salem 29’ Bumper Pull Trailer is a hot commodity. Its inside features four bunk beds, a dinette/bed, a queen-sized sofa bed, a bathroom, a kitchenette and a toy hauler/exam room area. The four tires and hitch are perfect for mobility during an emergency response.
LRAA has one of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
October 4, 2019
National Teen Driver Safety Week: October 20-26, 2019
This week – and every week, parents should have conversations with their teens about the important rules they need ot follow to stay safe behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.
The rules address the greatest dangers for teen drivers:
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distracted driving (texting while driving)
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impaired driving (alcohol and drugs)
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inconsistent or no seat belt use
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number of passengers
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speeding
1. Parents: October 20-26, 2019, is National Teen Driver Safety Week, a great time to talk with your teen driver about the importance of safe driving. In fact, you can keep the conversation going all year long!
2. Parents, it doesn’t matter whether your teen drives a car, pickup truck, or SUV — the rules of the road stay the same no matter what. Talk to them about driving safety during National Teen Driver Safety Week.
3. Drugs and alcohol, inconsistent seat belt use, distracted driving, speeding, and extra passengers are contributing factors to teen driver vehicle crashes. Parents, it’s so important to talk to your teen about these dangers during National Teen Driver Safety Week, and every day thereafter.
4. In 2017, there were 2,247 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver. Parents, it’s your job to initiate an ongoing discussion about driving safety with your teen driver, not just during National Teen Driver Safety Week, but every day thereafter.
5. Parents, your teens are too young to buy or consume alcohol, but some still find a way: In 2017, 15% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes had been drinking.
6. Seat belts are a simple way to stay safe in any vehicle. Parents, remind your teen driver to buckle up — every trip, every time — and to make sure their passengers do, too.
7. Safe driving requires 100% attention, so remind your teen driver to keep distractions out of the vehicle. In 2017, 9% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were distracted at the time of the crash.
8. Speeding is especially deadly for teen drivers: In 2017, 27% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the crash. Parents, remind your teen to slow down and obey the posted speed limits.
9. Parents, enforce a passenger maximum for your teen driver: Research shows the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of passengers in a car.
10. Parents, teach your teen driver to be a safe driver during National Teen Driver Safety Week, and every day thereafter. If they can’t handle the rules of the road, they can’t handle the keys to the car.
October 22, 2019
Office Holiday Closings: Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Thanksgiving:
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Thursday, November 28, 2019
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Friday, November 29, 2019
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For questions, contact Yvette LeBlanc at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
November 18, 2019
Alliance Membership Meeting: November 2019
When Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) members entered the final meeting of 2019, they were greeted with a holiday celebration, inclusive of décor and gifts – making it one of most exciting and festive meetings ever. As usual, quarterly Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Membership Meetings are key in connecting members to key news, resources and more from LAA/LRAA and the EMS industry as a whole. While this quarter’s celebration did not shy away from business such as Ambulance Standards, grants and communications, the themed holiday meeting invited everyone in attendance to celebrate a successful end to the 2019 year.
As announced by Verinique Bailey, LAA’s Communications and Marketing Manager, “In 2020, LAA will celebrate the organization’s 25thAnniversary!” And with 25 years of “Speaking with One Unified Voice” for EMS providers in the state of Louisiana, LAA has lots to commemorate. “With a successful first year of implementing the Communications and Marketing Campaign, LAA has received over 15,500 views on its website and nearly tripled its social media engagement,” added Bailey. “That alone is enough of a reason to celebrate and in year 25, we will ensure LAA’s communications and marketing reflect the greatness that the organization has achieved through the years!”
LAA’s staff is already at work planning the 2020 Alliance Membership Meetings. “I’m looking forward to hosting one of next year’s meetings at the new St. Gabriel office,” explained Administrator, Yvette LeBlanc. “This meeting, like most, had such a varied attendance and was extremely informative. I’m already excited for next year!”
Happy Holidays from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Special Thanks to the Meeting Sponsors:
Ferno, Insight Billing Corporation
2020 Membership Meetings:
March 04, 2020: The Wesley Center – Woodworth, LA
May 20, 2020: Baton Rouge EMS – Baton Rouge, LA
August 19, 2020: Bossier Civic Center – Bossier, LA
November 4, 2020: Louisiana Ambulance Alliance – St. Gabriel, LA
Register here for the next Alliance Membership Meeting.
November 19, 2019
“What’s Up With… Our Communications and Marketing Manager?”
As our “What’s Up With…?” article series continues, we spoke with our Communications and Marketing Manager, Verinique Bailey, and learned how she successfully manages all of LAA/LRAA’s communications and marketing.
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
I begin each and every day with a to-do list! In fact, I’ve already made my to-do list for the remainder of 2019. My day-to-day role includes managing various communications and marketing tasks such as developing content for the company-wide newsletter, social media and website; designing graphics, flyers and video content – which I’m so excited to have Rebecca Varmall, our Digital Media and Graphic Design Intern, to assist with; ordering marketing materials such as first aid kits, ink pens, lapel pins, shirts and more; connecting and communicating with LAA/LRAA members through email, phone and in-person; and collaborating with the staff and board about projects and updates.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
The biggest project that I just completed was the Communications and Marketing Audit. About a year ago, I developed and launched the Communications and Marketing Campaign, inclusive strategies for branding (Brand Book), marketing, Alliance Weekly Newsletters, social media, the website and more. I understood that this campaign, being the first of its kind for LAA/LRAA, would need to be audited after a year to determine strengths and opportunities and to measure whether or not it met intended goals. The audit proved that the alliance surpassed intended goals by achieving over 15,500 website views and nearly tripling social media engagement. As a result, one of my current projects includes developing additional ways to top the campaign’s achievements and implementing new ideas to increase engagement.
An additional project that I am working on is the leading the planning committee for the 2020 National EMS Week in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health and EMS for Children. I’ve been managing our meetings for the last couple of months and we are planning what we hope will be the largest and most impactful National EMS Week in the state of Louisiana’s history, as we will host events throughout various regions of the state (Baton Rouge, Bossier City, Lake Charles, St. Gabriel and St. Tammany). I’m excited to lead the planning committee’s efforts in ensuring that the week of events is successful.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
In my role as Communications and Marketing Manager, I literally connect and collaborate with all LAA/LRAA stakeholders weekly. Whether it’s simply the Alliance Weekly Newsletter where I communicate staff updates, provider spotlights, industry insights and upcoming events or whether its emails or phone calls to discuss relevant projects or tasks, I am always connecting and collaborating with other staff members, the Alliance board and providers.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
In the coming months, I am most looking forward to implementing a new communications and marketing sub-campaign to commemorate LAA/LRAA’s 25thAnniversary. Established in 1995, LAA/LRAA has accomplished so much in this quarter of a century and I am looking forward to recognizing those efforts through various communications and marketing projects.
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5. Is there anything additional that you’d like to share?
I am grateful to be trusted with such autonomy and inventiveness in my position. When I started here, over a year ago, LAA had never hired a communications and marketing professional and thus I was charged with creating the organization’s entire communications and marketing plans from scratch. With a little help from Kinetix with the development of LAA/LRAA’s newest logos and website design, I curated the entire campaign based on goals that the board previously established and by researching and determining the organization’s communications and marketing needs. To have been responsible for the success of our communications and marketing, long before I was in my position for a year, has been one of my most proud professional achievements. I am thankful to LAA/LRAA for the opportunity to be creative and entrusted with such large and innovative tasks and I am so excited to see what the future holds.
About the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance
The Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) is a diverse group of EMS providers who promote emergency medical transport as a distinct concern in Louisiana; serve as a forum for a unified voice for healthcare providers, public officials, healthcare workers, educators and consumers working to improve emergency medical transport in Louisiana; provide a forum for the exchange and distribution of ideas and information related to the improvement of emergency medical transport; serve as an advocate for emergency medical transport, promoting improved health status and improvements to the health system for residents of Louisiana; and encourage the development of appropriate health resources for Louisiana.
To learn more about LAA, visit www.LouisianaAmbulanceAlliance.org. For up-to-date information, news and updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
November 22, 2019
“What’s Up With… Our Policy Director?”
As our “What’s Up With…?” article series continues, we caught up with our Policy Director, Curry Landry, to gain insight on about the ins and outs of his role in overseeing LAA/LRAA policies and more.
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
As the LAA Policy Director, my day to day functions are usually focused on identifying and addressing policy, legal and reimbursement issues affecting LAA members. Daily activities that I perform include, but are not limited to, giving legal opinions on policies to members, reviewing contracts, working with state agencies and legislators on policy issues, and working with insurance companies to alleviate reimbursement issues.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
I am working on the LAA legislative agenda and slate for the 2020 legislative session. This session should be interesting being that a large number (more than 30%) of legislators are new to their positions at the capitol due to term limits. With so much turnover in the legislature, it is important to form relationships early. Forming relationships with legislators is made easier by the LAA members because they usually have working and/or personal relationships with local elected officials.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
My role is deeply intertwined with the providers and the board. They have a wealth of knowledge about EMS, politics and business, which is a valuable asset for my job. I ask providers and board members for advice all of the time. I bounce ideas (policies, legislation, etc.) off them, and they let me know how the EMS community will be affected. I communicate with members daily because policy, legal and reimbursement issues are always evolving and ongoing.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
It sounds funny to say it, but I am looking forward to the 2020 legislative session. It is a lot of work, but at the end of the day, it is worth it.
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5. Is there anything additional that you’d like to share?
I would just like to say how thankful I am to work for a great group of businesses and individuals. It gives me a great sense of pride that the EMS providers of Louisiana trust me with their policy, legal and reimbursement issues.
November 26, 2019
The 2019 EMS World Expo was a convention for EMS providers, vendors and personnel from all corners of the globe who gathered in New Orleans, Louisiana, for a week to exchange ideas and information about topics and products related to the EMS industry.
Fortunately, five Louisiana Ambulance Alliance’s (LAA) staff members and several LAA providers attended. With over 5,000 total attendees, the possibilities to connect were endless. LAA participated as an exhibitor and distributed hundreds of marketing materials to attendees.
Session topics ranged from Data and Technology to Comparing Prehospital Scores, and with a tour of the Level 1 Norman E. McSwain, Jr., MD Spirit of Charity Trauma Center at the University Medical Center, our staff gained insight to the crucial partnership between EMS and hospitals. “As an employee who does not respond to calls or work in the field very often, the tour of the trauma center gave me insight to exactly what is involved in every role from first responders to hospital personnel,” explained Megan Hedges, LAA Consortium Director.
“If you have never attended an EMS World Expo, don’t miss the next one,” urged Rob Daughdril, LAA Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. “It is truly a professional and educational experience.”
The 2020 EMS World Expo is scheduled for September 14-18, 2020, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
October 25, 2019
“What’s Up With… Our Administrator?”
In our most recent “What’s Up With…?” we spoke with our Administrator, Yvette LeBlanc, to learn more about her role in LAA/LRAA and the exciting projects she’s working on. Administration is the glue that holds LAA/LRAA together and Yvette described just how she does it!
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
My day-to-day duties range from Secretary, Bookkeeper, Banker, House Mother, Gofer and all-around general firefighter putting out “fires” as needed in our Napoleonville Office. There is a lot of autonomy in our office and it is refreshing to be trusted by Donna to get the job done. Recently, I acted as an Apple Developer as we reorganized the LRAA App renewal.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
The biggest projects I am working on currently are the reimbursements for Hurricane Dorian. Since starting with LAA, this is the first deployment that I have been actively involved with. The second project I’m managing is our upcoming Alliance Membership Meeting on November 13, 2019, in Natchitoches, Louisiana. I am anticipating the meeting to be a learning experience and I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know more members and providers.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
My role connects and collaborates with other staff members by making sure reservations and registrations for classes and events and/or hotels are booked and by handling any other daily activities and/or gathering needed information such as policies, invoices, payroll and/or managing archives for ongoing projects. I primarily work with Megan Hedges (Consortium Director), Seth Breaux (Asset Manager) and Donna Newchurch Landry (CEO) in our Napoleonville office. I am in contact with Verinique Bailey (Communications and Marketing Manager) and Curry Landry (Policy Director) as needed. Evon Smith (ACE4EMS Director) and Rob Daughdril (Emergency Preparedness Coordinator) are remote employees and I always enjoy working with them to help move the organization forward. My involvement with board members and providers is limited to correspondence by mail, email and telephone when exchanging information. Since I am not out in the field for deployments, I have limited engagement with the providers and I mostly partner with them after deployment for reimbursement purposes.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
As stated previously, I am looking forward to the Alliance Membership Meeting in November, but I am especially excited for our move into the new facility located in St. Gabriel. This is an exciting time for LAA and I am proud to be able to say I belong to an organization that helps so many citizens, businesses, providers, EMTs, Paramedics, EMRs, Emergency Responders and Firefighters statewide. Living in a rural area and having a husband that has been a member of our volunteer fire department for more than 25 years, serving in the capacity of Chief for 12 years, I have lots of insight to the roles of some of our members as well as providers that reside in the outermost rural parishes of our state. The information that I have acquired in my tenure as a “volunteer wife” has proven to be invaluable to my understanding the purpose of LAA.
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5. Is there anything additional that you’d like to share?
I told a family member the other day that this is the best job I have ever had! I get to work with people with similar beliefs in service to and for the fellow man. Service is a calling and not everyone has that call. I feel privileged to say I work for Louisiana Ambulance Alliance.
About the Louisiana Ambulance Alliance
The Louisiana Ambulance Alliance (LAA) is a diverse group of EMS providers who promote emergency medical transport as a distinct concern in Louisiana; serve as a forum for a unified voice for healthcare providers, public officials, healthcare workers, educators and consumers working to improve emergency medical transport in Louisiana; provide a forum for the exchange and distribution of ideas and information related to the improvement of emergency medical transport; serve as an advocate for emergency medical transport, promoting improved health status and improvements to the health system for residents of Louisiana; and encourage the development of appropriate health resources for Louisiana.
To learn more about LAA, visit www.LouisianaAmbulanceAlliance.org. For up-to-date information, news and updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
October 29, 2019
“What’s Up With… Our Consortium Director?”
In our most recent “What’s Up With…?” we spoke with our Consortium Director, Megan Hedges, to learn more about her role in the Louisiana Rural Ambulance Alliance and the exciting projects she’s working on. The LRAA consortium fulfills many state grant obligations and we took time to learn just how Megan manages it all.
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
I normally spend my days working on revisions of the information originally submitted for the End the Epidemic Louisiana grant, while also making time to complete attachments for the current grant application. Some days, educational webinars are my primary focus.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
My biggest projects are the End the Epidemic Louisiana grant deliverables and the grant application attachments for the next grant LRAA plans to pursue. The End the Epidemic Louisiana deliverables were previously submitted but are being revised to ensure all required elements are included. Researching information for the future grant and combining the attachments together with accurate information are the projects that take most of my time.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
I communicate educational information to providers that they may not have previously been aware of. Being in an administrative position allows me to be privileged to new opioid epidemic statistics, which are collected from individuals who work and conduct research in the field. LRAA providers submit the data that they collect, and it is analyzed and used to produce information to give administrative staff an overview of the past, present and future regarding the opioid epidemic. Providers feel comfortable communicating their experiences and needs to me and I serve them by partnering with organizations in the industry that can contribute to their needs.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
I am looking forward to the end of construction at the new building in St. Gabriel and moving to that office. I am looking forward to continuing the work that has already been achieved for the End the Epidemic Louisiana and I am anxious to finish the application for the next grant and I hope that LRAA will be awarded that grant to aid in the End the Epidemic work we have already achieved.
November 5, 2019
Asset of the Month – November 2019 Generac XP8000E Watt Portable Generator
LRAA’s Generac XP8000E Watt Portable Generator is a rollable, gas operated machine that can be conveniently placed on disaster response trailers. The generator is a key asset in power outages related to natural disasters or other occurrences and is easy to transport.
LRAA has five of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
November 7, 2019
“What’s Up With… Our Emergency Preparedness Coordinator?”
This week, we caught up with our Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Rob Daughdril, as we continued our “What’s Up With…?” article series.
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
As a part time employee, my days and duties vary from completing paperwork after a deployment to developing planning documents and policies and procedures as it relates to Emergency Preparedness.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
My biggest project is developing and coordinating all the information we need to gather and organizing documents during a deployment. It can be extensive.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
The best thing about LRAA/LAA is its team members. We work well together, know our jobs and pull together whenever a need arises.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
During off hurricane season, we have time to catch up and get things done and things are not in a rush.
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5. Is there anything additional that you’d like to share?
I’ve been with LRAA since its inception and I have always been very impressed with the goals and actions. The Alliance has done many things that other organizations only dream about.
December 9, 2019
Asset of the Month – December 2019
LRAA’s Satellite Communications Systems are installed on disaster command trailers and are key assets in communicating during emergencies. The satellite system includes a TracStar .96 meter auto-acquire antenna, an iDirect 3100 satellite modern, a TracStarmeter auto-acquire antenna, a TracStar controller and a Linksys ATA to convert analog phone lines to IP.
LRAA has five of these products available. View our full Asset Catalog here for more information and for a full description.
Disclaimer: Each of LRAA’s assets are available to lease to Louisiana Ambulance Alliance Providers upon the completion of a lease check list and lease request form found here. Contact us by phone at 985-513-3593 or by email at assetmanager@louisianaambulancealliance.org.
December 11, 2019
Office Holiday Closings: Christmas
Merry Christmas from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of Christmas:
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Tuesday, December 24, 2019
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Wednesday, December 25, 2019
For questions, contact Yvette LeBlanc at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
December 18, 2019
Office Holiday Closings: New Year’s
Happy New Year from LAA, LRAA and ACE4EMS!
Our offices will be closed on the following days in observance of New Year’s:
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Tuesday, December 31, 2019
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Wednesday, January 1, 2020
For questions, contact Yvette LeBlanc at admin@newchurchassoc.com.
December 26, 2019
We took a moment to catch up with our CEO, Donna Newchurch, in our “What’s Up With…?” article series, as she described her role in leading the organization.
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1. Describe your day-to-day role.
It is my responsibility to ensure the programs and staff of the Alliance are responsive to the needs of the members of the Alliance. I work every day to ensure that the output of the Alliance staff is timely and driven by our members.
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2. What is the biggest project that you’re working on?
In my position, there is no one project that I can identify as my biggest project. As I am responsible for all aspects of the organization, my biggest project is ensuring all projects are effective in terms of cost and product.
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3. How does your role connect and collaborate with other staff members, board and providers?
Since my role is driven by the members and providers, my interaction with them is key to our success. In turn, implementation of programs to address the members’ needs requires board member approval and staff dedication. Thus, my role gives me the opportunity to collaborate with our staff, board and members. It is truly an honor to work with such a broad aspect of committed and amazing individuals.
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4. What are you most looking forward to in the coming months?
As we move into 2020, I look forward to working with the members to identify and address their priorities as well as working with staff to implement programs to address those priorities.