“Always the first to get off the vehicle and the last to return”,but after 24 years on the road “I leave for what hasn’t been,isn’t and will never be”. The association Nobody Tocchi Ippocrate tells the story of its colleague from the ASL Napoli 1 centro: “Who, among the new generations, will ever get into an ambulance?”
“I’m leaving 118, I’m leaving a job as an ASL employee, I’m resigning.” And “I do it, with great regret – those who know me know this - for what has not been, for what is not, for what unfortunately will never be”. There is a lot of bitterness in the farewell of a doctor from 118 of the ASL Napoli 1 Centro, entrusted to a message to colleagues on Whatsapp, words that the association Nobody Tocchi Ippocrate (NtI) reports on Facebook.After “24 years of an honorable career ‘on the road'”, we read, the white coat abandons the position of first level medical director and moves on to general medicine. Yesterday his last shift in the ambulance, the final farewell and the saddest consideration: “No one cares about us”.
“I can proudly say – he writes – that I gave everything I could, always the first to get out of the ambulance, the last to return.This job has given me unimaginable satisfactions, I have experienced very strong and extremely gratifying emotions, but I also had to endure bitter disappointments.” Statements that “leave colleagues astonished”, comments Manuel Ruggiero, president of Nti. “And now? He’s leaving too. What will remain of this Neapolitan 118? Who,of the new generations,will get into an ambulance?”,asks Ruggiero.
“Too many question marks – he observes – in a healthcare system that shoudl provide certainties. But there is only one truth” and it all lies in that farewell: ”No one cares about 118. But when drama happens, it is indeed the only number that the user knows and composes us so apparently useless, but indispensable simultaneously occurring”. From Ruggiero a goodbye and a question to the institutions: “Hello my friend. Dear Campania Region, is all this right?”.
What are the main factors contributing to the dissatisfaction among emergency medical services workers in Italy?
Title: A Farewell from the frontlines: An Interview on the Challenges Facing Emergency Medical services in Italy
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. With growing concerns regarding the state of emergency medical services, your recent article on the resignation of a doctor from the ASL Napoli 1 Centro captures this serious issue. Can you explain the context behind his decision to leave?
Expert: Absolutely. The doctor’s departure after 24 years highlights a deep-seated dissatisfaction within the emergency medical services sector, specifically the 118 emergency service in Naples.His farewell message expresses a feeling of regret for what has not materialized in terms of support and recognition for EMS workers. This resignation is emblematic of a larger issue we’re seeing across the healthcare system,where many dedicated professionals feel overlooked and under-appreciated.
Interviewer: You mentioned that he wrote, “No one cares about us.” What does this sentiment reveal about the current state of emergency medical services in Italy?
Expert: This sentiment underscores a meaningful crisis within the healthcare system. Emergency medical services, particularly in regions like Campania, are operating under immense pressure with inadequate resources and support. The doctor’s reflections indicate not just personal disappointment but also a systemic failure to adequately support those on the frontline during emergencies. It raises critical questions about the sustainability of emergency services if younger generations are deterred from joining due to the perceived lack of value and recognition.
Interviewer: There is a concern expressed by Manuel Ruggiero, president of Nobody tocchi Ippocrate, regarding the future of these services. What do you believe will happen if current trends continue?
Expert: If we continue on this trajectory without meaningful change,we could face a serious shortage of qualified emergency medical professionals. The question of who will step into these roles looms large. If young potential recruits see veterans expressing resignation and disappointment,they may be dissuaded from pursuing careers in emergency medicine. This could ultimately jeopardize the quality of care delivered during critical situations.
Interviewer: The article mentions the emotional aspect of working in EMS. What are some of the pressures that EMS workers face, and how do these contribute to burnout?
Expert: EMS workers experience a unique blend of physical and emotional stressors. They’re often first responders to traumatic incidents, which can lead to psychological strain. Continuous exposure to high-stakes environments,paired with inadequate emotional support and resources,can exacerbate feelings of burnout. Notably, the rewards are often overshadowed by disappointments, as highlighted in the doctor’s farewell.
Interviewer: in light of these challenges, what practical steps can be taken by institutions to improve conditions for EMS workers?
Expert: Institutions must prioritize the well-being of EMS personnel. This includes providing adequate resources, fostering a supportive work surroundings, and recognizing the contributions of these professionals both publicly and within the organizational structure. Training and professional advancement opportunities are also crucial, alongside establishing programs that assist with mental health.Ultimately, creating a culture that values and supports EMS workers is essential for retention and recruitment.
Interviewer: As we conclude, what message do you hope resonates with our readers about the current landscape of emergency medical services?
Expert: I hope readers understand the critical role that EMS services play in our communities. They truly are the unsung heroes who step up when we are at our most vulnerable. by raising awareness about their struggles, we can advocate for a more sustainable and supportive system that recognizes their invaluable service. It is indeed imperative that we engage with local and regional government to ensure that the voices of those on the frontlines are heard and acted upon.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that immediate attention is required to support our emergency medical services to ensure they can continue providing essential care.
Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s a vital conversation that we must continue.
