Position Paper: Old Medics vs. New Medics

[Guest guest]

I suppose I will chime in with some observations now.  Interesting responses by

the way.

Based on my personal observations older medics tend to be better at patient

assessment, more detail oriented, have far better documentation, are more

proficient at skills, and have more pride in their work.  On the other hand we

tend to resist technology and in general are a bit fed up, perhaps burned-out! 

While I personally have tried to re-invent myself repeatedly over the years by

doing everything from rural ems and teaching to clinical settings and

consulting.  I have expressed frustration at the quality of medics entering the

field over the past several years.  Now, I understand some institutions are

providing high-quality education and training, but in general I feel we have

regressed.

As for the new medics it seems they rely to heavily on technology.  I have found

that too many new medics fail to take accurate vital signs or provide

appropriate patient care.  While requirements approach 1200-1400 hours + now

versus 400 some fifteen to twenty years ago, the quality appears to be lacking. 

Technology has made check boxes more common and well-written narratives a thing

of the past, for the most part.  

Now, before people start giving me a lashing, I have had these conversations

with medics in urban and rural settings, flight medics, physicians, nurses and

educators.  Almost without hesitation and seldom disagreeing, the same comments

are made over and over.

Tony , EMT-P