summaryIn this episode of A Duty to Act, host Jennifer Darling speaks with Mike Hilley, a retiring administrator and paramedic with over 30 years of experience in emergency medical services. Mike shares his journey from the Coast Guard to becoming a firefighter and paramedic, discussing the challenges and rewards of his career. He reflects on the evolution of EMS, the importance of community service, and the future of paramedicine in addressing modern healthcare challenges. This conversation explores the integration of community health into emergency medical services (EMS), the evolving career pathways for paramedics, and innovative approaches to address the opioid crisis through medication-assisted treatment. The discussion highlights the importance of building a behavioral health campus to provide comprehensive care and the significance of leadership in EMS.

takeaways

• Mike Hilley has over 30 years of experience in EMS.
• His career began in the Coast Guard, where he was encouraged to serve his community.
• He transitioned from the Coast Guard to the fire department in Juneau, Alaska.
• Mike's early experiences included volunteering in hospitals and fire departments.
• He became a paramedic after completing a program in King County.
• Mike worked for nearly 28 years at the Redmond Fire Department before becoming EMS Director in Bellingham.
• He emphasizes the importance of data in improving EMS systems.
• Mike's education includes a master's degree in health sciences managing emergency services.
• He discusses the challenges EMS faces with modern issues like behavioral health and the opioid crisis.
• Mike hopes to influence the future of EMS through technology and community engagement. Community health integration is essential for effective EMS.
• Paramedics need diverse career pathways to maintain engagement.
• Innovative mobile health programs can address community needs.
• The opioid crisis requires urgent and multifaceted responses.
• Medication-assisted treatment is a critical tool in emergency care.
• Behavioral health resources are vital for comprehensive patient care.
• Leadership in EMS can drive positive change in communities.
• Grants and funding are crucial for developing health programs.
• Overcoming barriers to wellness is a community effort.
• Reflecting on a career in EMS highlights the importance of service.