Mitchell Medics EMS team shares firsthand experiences
Mitchell Medics EMS supervisor James Vance (right) looks on as his team quickly but carefully loads an injured motor vehicle driver onto an ambulance amid heavy afternoon traffic. (MNJ)
The Mitchell Medics EMS team gets a call about a car wreck on a major highway in Mitchell County.
Immediately, Mitchell Medics EMT and operations supervisor James Vance and his pair of helpers are off, speeding toward the scene.
With every second counting, the crew gets to the scene as quickly as possible, slowing at intersections to pass safely before resuming speed.
For Vance, it’s just another day on the job.
“Evil will flourish when good people do nothing,” he likes to say.
At the scene, the trio gets to work, with each person playing a vital role in helping the injured driver. One draws blood while another calms the driver down. A third makes sure to jot down all of the patient’s vitals and information.
The paramedic teams have to make split-second decisions about how to treat and where to send patients. Through experience and training, they’ve honed their skills.
Mitchell Medics paramedics go through continued training each year. Mitchell Medics has four ambulances and a quick reaction vehicle. Every unit is equipped with state-of-the-art lifesaving equipment.
If needed, ambulances can serve as mobile, short-term intensive care units.
Shortly after getting the injured driver to the right area for treatment, the team gets another call— this one with stakes a bit lower.
It’s a patient having problems with his blood sugar level. While not as pressing as a car accident, Vance and his team handle it with the same compassion.
“Not all calls from 911 are emergencies,” Vance said. “But if you need help, dial 911.”
Calls for EMS flow through the Mitchell County 911 Communications Center. When appropriate, local dispatchers notify EMS.
Most calls are for breathing problems, accidents, chest pain and stroke, Vance said.
Mitchell Medics has served the county as its EMS provider for nearly a year. Bryant Reid serves as director.