MAYOR SHARON TUCKER'S OP-ED ON THREE RIVERS AMBULANCE AUTHORITY

July 24, 2024 - The op-ed below from Mayor Sharon Tucker appeared in The Journal Gazette on July 24, 2024.

Nothing is more important than ensuring that the residents of the city of Fort Wayne are safe and have access to effective and efficient emergency medical care from Three Rivers Ambulance Authority (TRAA) and the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD).

For many years, Fort Wayne and Allen County have been part of an interlocal agreement to provide emergency medical services to the public. Over time, the process has changed and become more complex due to several factors.

In recent days, a few members of City Council and the Allen County Board of Commissioners have publicly stated their respective views on the TRAA staffing situation and are differing on what should or shouldn't happen moving forward. It is evident that emergency medical services will not be the same going forward as in days of old.

Since becoming mayor on April 23, my leadership team and I have been working diligently on the TRAA staffing situation. We recognize that TRAA has been experiencing challenges with staffing, and because of that, response times have suffered. In addition, the creation of the fire districts outside of city limits has taken away professionals from TRAA and the FWFD. But, through these difficult circumstances, TRAA and the FWFD continue to improve their ability to meet the needs of our community.

Our job is to make sure that emergency services to the public continue and are enhanced moving forward in a manner that protects taxpayers. Residents can take comfort in knowing that TRAA and the FWFD have a strong commitment to saving lives. It's also important for the public to know that my administration is seeking a solution that is right for Fort Wayne, and that we're willing to work with the Allen County Board of Commissioners to find ways for all systems of emergency care to work together for the greater good.

Action steps that I'm leading:

*TRAA's executive director and board of directors have been asked to contract with traveling EMS personnel to reduce the burden of overtime and stress on the TRAA staff and avoid burnout.

*TRAA should seek to hire a trainer to assist with the onboarding of new employees to create a seamless transition into the organization.

*We have been in conversations with all involved parties. My leadership team and I will continue to have dialogue with City Council and the Allen County Board of Commissioners to reach a resolution that will result in the public being as safe as possible and receiving excellent services.

We know that a redesign of the current EMS model is a top priority. It will take research, due diligence, and time. Any potential changes must also undergo rigorous testing to ensure we protect lives and look out for the best interest of taxpayers.

Reimagining EMS delivery in Fort Wayne will require open dialogue, collaboration, building trust, being willing to make appropriate concessions, and making difficult decisions. By working together, we will be a stronger and more united community that's focused on people and how we can better serve the public.