Business World |
March 2015
262
EDUCATION
The prevalence of technology in the compa-
ny – from the medical team to the aviation
portion is now being adopted and adapted
to fit into AlStar EMS’ education program.
Started in 2012, AlStar has created a com-
bined paramedic education program via dis-
tance learning technology and a wi-fi con-
nection, truly embracing interconnectivity.
“We’ve created a regional approach to grow-
ing paramedics,” Wilson said. “In this region
before the program, students had to drive
to Buffalo or Erie, which is 75 miles in each
direction, two nights a week. We were hav-
ing a real issue finding paramedics to put on
those helicopters and in ambulances, and
now we’re able to grow them locally with
one voice and combined resources.”
“This is piloting the future of EMS educa-
tion, not just in our region, but the state, so
it’s really exciting,” Wilson continued. “Not
only are we seeing growth in paramedics and
the providers, but the resources provide new,
critical opportunities for work in different
positions. Students are able to keep their
costs down while getting a better education.”
Pinpointing local markets has paid off. With
42 volunteer fire departments in Chautau-
qua County and 30 in Cattaraugus County,
the program’s focus remains hometown de-
