FDNY EMS Plays Key Role in Lifesaving Efforts of the Department
In recent years, the landscape of emergency response has shifted significantly, particularly within the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), where the chief mission has evolved from traditional firefighting to a predominant focus on emergency medical services (EMS). This transformation reflects the complex reality faced by the FDNY today, where approximately 70% to 85% of 911 calls pertain to medical emergencies, including heart attacks, strokes, overdoses, respiratory failures, and psychiatric crises. The recent appointment of Lillian Bonsignore, a veteran of EMS, as the new FDNY commissioner symbolizes a pivotal acknowledgment of this paradigm shift.
Historically, EMS has been underfunded, understaffed, and often overlooked within the department, despite managing the majority of its call volume. This imbalance raises concerns about public safety, as the structural disparities between the firefighting and EMS branches become increasingly evident. Currently, EMS personnel, who are disproportionately women and people of color, make up only a small fraction of the FDNY workforce and a significantly smaller share of its budget. Investment in EMS has lagged behind the rising demand for services, leading to chronic staffing shortages and protracted emergency response times.
The effects of this oversight are far-reaching. The failure to adequately resource EMS influences morale, exacerbates employee attrition, and ultimately impacts the quality of care provided to New Yorkers. A reality where individuals may face life-threatening delays in receiving emergency medical attention is unacceptable, particularly as the system grapples with increased demands for service. The glaring need for reform in the EMS sector is underscored by the acknowledgment that the FDNY’s survival increasingly hinges on effective medical care rather than traditional firefighting prowess.
The role of the FDNY commissioner is critical in navigating this complex environment. The commissioner functions as the chief executive of a vast agency, managing a workforce of approximately 17,000 and overseeing a multibillion-dollar budget. The position is geared toward setting strategic priorities, securing funding, and addressing issues with City Hall, rather than managing on-the-ground fire operations directly. Despite criticisms related to Bonsignore’s background in EMS, it is essential to appreciate that her experience offers valuable insight into the realities of modern emergency response.
Furthermore, the longstanding biases against EMS and the challenges of equitable treatment within the FDNY must be addressed to adapt effectively to contemporary needs. Recognizing the contributions of both EMS and firefighting personnel does not diminish the valor associated with firefighting; rather, it enhances the collective effectiveness of the FDNY. A properly structured and adequately funded EMS unit ultimately benefits all facets of emergency response, promoting a unified approach that prioritizes the health and safety of New Yorkers.
The appointment of Bonsignore marks a pivotal step forward in reshaping perceptions and resources within the FDNY, ensuring that emergency medical responders receive the respect and support they deserve. By recognizing the integral role of EMS in the department and addressing disparities, the FDNY can better meet the challenges of 21st-century emergency care. As the city faces an unprecedented demand for medical services, the importance of strong leadership with a comprehensive understanding of both EMS and fire operations cannot be overstated.
