2023 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2023 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. Each Director will serve a 3-year term beginning January 1, 2024.  Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

Region 1 Director (3 year term)

Mike Addario
Vice President, Operations
Global Medical Response

 

 

 


 

Region 2 Director (3 year term)

Mike Thomas
Director of Government Relations & Safety
Jan-Care Ambulance

 

 

 


Region 3 Director (3 year term)

Kyle Wolber

Director of Logistics
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.

 

 

 


 

Region 4 Director (3 year term)

Tom Fennell
Regulatory Officer
Mayo Clinic Ambulance

 

 

 


Region 5 Director (3 year term)

Jimmy Pierson
President
Medic Ambulance Service

 

 

 

 


Ethics Committee Members (2 year term)

  • Christopher Dell (Region 2)
  • Mike Pieroni (Region 3)
  • Johna Easley (Region 4)
  • Ailyn Risch (Region 5)

 

2022 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2022 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. The term for each position will begin on January 1, 2023. For regions 1 and 3, two directors were chosen due to vacant positions. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

President-Elect

Jamie Pafford-Gresham
Pafford EMS
Hope, AR

 


Treasurer

Julie Rose
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.
Ashtabula, OH

 

 


Secretary

Wayne Jurecki
Bell Ambulance Service, Inc.
Milwaukee, WI

 

 


Region 1 Director – 3 Year Term

Dennis Cataldo
Cataldo Ambulance Service
Somerville, MA

 

 

 

Region 1 Director – 1 Year Term

Mike Addario
Global Medical Response
Baldwinsville, NY

 

 


Region 2 Director – 3 Year Term

Chuck Kearns
Mercy Ambulance Service, Inc
Savannah, GA

 

 


Region 3 Director – 3 Year Term

Tom Tornstrom
Gundersen Health System-Tri-State Ambulance
La Crosse, WI

 

 

Region 3 Director – 1 Year Term

Kyle Wolber
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.
Winfield, IL

 

 


Region 4 Director – 3 Year Term

Allyson Pharr
Acadian Ambulance
Lafayette, LA

 

 


Region 5 Director – 3 Year Term

J.D. Fuiten
Metro West Ambulance
Hillsboro, OR

 

 

 

 


Ethics Committee

Hanan Cohen
Empress EMS
Region 1

 

 

 

Ron Quaranto
Acadian Ambulance
Region 4

2022 AAA Board of Director Nominations Open

Nominations Now Open for AAA Board, More!
View this email in your browser

Nominations Due 6/17 for
Board Candidates, Ethics Committee, and Honorary Members

Board Nominations

Nominations are open for AAA members in good standing who wish to serve the association in one of the following positions:

  • President-Elect
  • Treasurer
  • Secretary
  • Region I Director
    (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI, VT & PR)
  • Region II Director
    (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director 
    (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN, WI)
  • Region IV Director
    (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director
    (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY)

The nomination form must be completed by June 17th to be included in the election.

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as President-Elect, Treasurer-at-Large, or Secretary must meet the following criteria:

1. Be an employee of and the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

6. Have served on the AAA Board within the past five (5) years prior to his or her declaration as a candidate for election as a President-Elect, Treasurer-at-Large, or Secretary.

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as Regional Director must:

1. Be the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

There are no restrictions against an individual running for more than one position in the same election cycle, though no person shall hold more than one position simultaneously.All those who wish to stand for election and believe they are qualified are requested to complete a Nomination Form. Please note that we do not have two separate forms this year- just one form including the nominee info & candidate questionnaire! The form must be completed by June 17, 2022 to be included in the candidate ratification. 

Candidates’ statements and pictures, as well as the position(s) for which they are running for will be listed on the AAA website.

2022 Election Timeline

6/17 | Nominations Close
6/24  | Approval of Candidates by AAA Nominating Committee
6/28  | Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
8/1 | Voting Opens
Election will be paperless. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
9/1 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
9/18 | Election results announced at the Annual Membership Meeting at the AAA Annual Conference in Nashville, TN.

Get Involved!
(Nominations Due 6/17)

About Honorary Membership
AAA accepts written nominations for worthy individuals who have significantly contributed to the accomplishments of the AAA and should therefore be recognized through the granting of Honorary Membership. Honorary Member Form►

About the Ethics Committee
It is the mission of the Ethics Committee to define and distribute guidelines that promote self-imposed high ethical standards for providers of ambulance services. The committee is responsible for hearing complaints and making appropriate recommendations regarding violations of the AAA Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct. Ethics Committee Form►


Complete Board Candidate Form

Complete Honorary Member Form

Complete Ethics Committee Form

Please contact Meghan Winesett at mwinesett@ambulance.org or
(703) 203-9885 with any questions. 

2021 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2021 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. The term for each position will begin on January 1, 2022. In compliance with our updated association bylaws, the candidate who received the most votes in each region will serve a one-time three year term and the candidate with the second most votes will serve a two-year term. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

Region I

Director (3 year term)

Jim O’Connor
Vice President
Empress EMS
White Plains, NY


 

Director (2 year term)

Ron Quaranto
Executive Vice President of Operations
Cataldo Ambulance
Somerville, MA

 

Region II

 

Director (3 year term)

Terence Ramotar
Director of Government Affairs- Southeast Region
Global Medical Response
Tampa, FL

 


 

Director (2 year term)

Mike Thomas
Director of Safety & Government Relations
Jan-Care Ambulance
Beckley, WV

 

Region III

Director (3 year term)

Chris Anderson
Director of Operations
Bell Ambulance, Inc.
Milwaukee, WI

 

 


 

Director (2 year term)

Tom Schmiedeknecht
Director of Operations / President
Professional Med Team
Muskegon, MI

Region IV

 

Director (3 year term)

Angie McLain-Johnson
Chief Compliance and Revenue Officer
Pafford EMS
Edmond, OK

 

 


 

Director (2 year term)

Tom Fennell
Regulatory Officer
Mayo Clinic Ambulance
Rochester, MN

 

Region V

Director (3 year term)

Paul Main
President / General Manager
American Ambulance of Visalia
Visalia, CA

 


Director (2 year term)

Chris Archuleta
CEO
Superior Ambulance Service, Inc
Albuquerque, NM

 

Ethics Committee

Allyson Pharr
Acadian Ambulance

Scott Mickelsen
Bell Ambulance, Inc.

Due 9/13 | AAA Board Candidates, Ethics Committee, & Honorary Members

Nominations Due 9/13 for
Board Candidates, Ethics Committee, and Honorary Members

Board Nominations

In accordance with the Bylaws of the American Ambulance Association, it is time to call for members in good standing that wish to serve the association in one of the following positions:

  • Region I Director
    (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI & VT)
  • Region II Director
    (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director 
    (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN, WI)
  • Region IV Director
    (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director
    (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY)
  • Ethics Committee Member 
    (Open to all regions)

Due to recent bylaws changes, this year’s election will result in ten new Region Directors, two in each region. The candidate with the most votes in each region will serve a one-time, three-year term and the candidate with the second most votes in each region will serve a one-time, two-year term.

AAA Regional Director Qualifications

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as Regional Director must:

  • Be the designated representative of an Active Member of the AAA, in good standing;
  • Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;
  • Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,
  • Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging, and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.
  • Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

Regional Director Nomination Process

Step 1: Nomination Form
Step 2: Candidate Questionnaire

Both forms must be completed by the September 13 deadline!

All those who wish to stand for election and believe they are qualified are requested to complete a Nomination Form as well as answer the Candidate Questionnaire, which describes both their qualifications and reasons for wanting to participate in the leadership of the AAA.

(Please note that the Nomination Form may be completed by any designated contact for an AAA Active member for him or herself, or on behalf of another designated contact at a fellow AAA active member service. The Candidate Questionnaire must be completed by the nominee.)

Candidates’ statements and pictures, as well as the position(s) for which they are running, will be listed on the AAA website.

2021 Election Timeline

8/19 | Nominations Open
9/13 | Nominations Close
9/21  | Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
10/6 | Voting Opens. Election will be paperless. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
10/21 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
11/1 | Election results announced at the AAA membership meeting at the Annual Conference.

About Honorary Membership

AAA accepts written nominations for worthy individuals who have significantly contributed to the accomplishments of the AAA and should therefore be recognized through the granting of Honorary Membership.
Nominate►

About the Ethics Committee

It is the mission of the Ethics Committee to define and distribute guidelines that promote self-imposed high ethical standards for providers of ambulance services. The committee is responsible for hearing complaints and making appropriate recommendations regarding violations of the AAA Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct. Apply to join►

Nominate a Board Candidate

Nominate an Honorary Member

Join the Ethics Committee

Please contact hello@ambulance.org with any questions. 

2020 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2020 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. The term for each position will begin on January 1, 2021. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

Executive Committee

President-Elect

Randy Strozyk
Senior Vice President- Executive Operations
Global Medical Response
Tukwila, WA

 


Treasurer

Julie Rose
Chief Executive Officer
Community Care Ambulance
Ashtabula, OH

 

 


Secretary

Jamie Pafford-Gresham
President and CEO
Pafford Medical Services
Hope, AR

 

 

Region I

Director (2022)

Mike Addario
Vice President of Operations- Northeast
Global Medical Response
Syracuse, NY


 

Alternate Director

Jim O’Connor
Vice President
Empress EMS
White Plains, NY

 

Region II

 

Director (2022)

Chuck Kearns
Chief Executive Officer
Mercy Ambulance Service
Savannah, GA

 


Alternate Director

Terence Ramotar
Director of Government Affairs
Global Medical Response
Tampa, FL

 

Region III

Director (2022)

 

Kim Godden
Vice President- Legal, Government Relations, and Compliance
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.
Elmhurst, IL

 

 


 

Alternate Director

*Vacant due to term limit*

 

Region IV

Director (2022)

Asbel Montes (2 years)
Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives
Acadian Ambulance Service, Inc.
Lafayette, LA

 

Tom Fennell (1 year)
Compliance Officer
Mayo Clinic Ambulance
Rochester, MN

 

 


 

Alternate Director

David Tetrault
Administrator/Chief Executive Officer
St. Francois County Ambulance District
Farmington, MO

 

Region V

Director (2022)


JD Fuiten
Owner & President
Metro West Ambulance Service, Inc.
Hillsboro, OR

 


Alternate Director


Paul Pedersen
Managing Partner
Arizona Ambulance Transport
Sierra Vista, AZ

 

 

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Ethics Committee

Allyn Girard (2022)
Golden Cross Ambulance
Region 1

Moises Segovia (2022)
Life Star EMS
Region 4

 

Senate Passes Economic Stimulus Package Several Provisions Help Ambulance Services!

Moments ago, the U.S. Senate passed an economic stimulus package in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The House is expected to consider the legislation in the next few days. As a result of the efforts of the AAA and our members who are also on the front line of the response to COVID-19, we were able to improve the final package.

The package includes several provisions that will provide urgent financial assistance and resources to ambulance service organizations and our employees. The provisions are consistent with requests made by the AAA, although they target a broader constituency consistent with much of the rest of the stimulus package.

The provisions in the package related to our requests are as follows:

Stimulus Package Provisions

Health Care Provider Provisions

  • $100 Billion Grant Program: Direct funding to public entities, Medicare or Medicaid enrolled suppliers and providers, and for-profit entities and not-for-profit entities as the Secretary may specify to reimburse for health care related expenses or lost revenues that are attributable to coronavirus. Ambulance service suppliers and providers will file applicants for funding with the Department of Health and Human Services.
  • Sequestration Delay: Suspension of the 2% sequestration cut in Medicare funding for ambulance service and other providers and suppliers. The suspension would begin May 1 and end December 31, 2020 with sequestration then extended from 2029 to 2030.
  • Telehealth: Authorizes the Secretary to waive any of the current requirements in statute for telehealth services during the emergency.

Business Provisions

  • Payroll Tax Deferral: Employers including ambulance service organizations starting upon enactment of the legislation will defer payment of their 6.2% share of the payroll tax through December 31, 2020. Half of the tax will be due by the end of 2021 and the second half by the end of 2022.
  • Small Business Loans: Provides $350 billion in loans under the Payment Protection Program for employers including ambulance service organizations with 500 or fewer employees. Loans available up to $10 million per employer.

Emergency Responder Provisions

  • $45 Billion Disaster Relief Fund: Grants made available under the FEMA Public Assistance Program to state and local governments to address the recovery from COVID-19 including reimbursement for medical response, PPE and backfilling positions. The funding highlights the critical need for access by emergency responders to PPE and other resources. For-profit ambulance service organizations would be eligible for funding through their state or local government. If your organization faces an issue with government officials as to eligibility, please provide them the FEMA Fact Sheet: Public Assistance for Ambulance Services which in 2009 the AAA had successfully encouraged FEMA to issue.
  • $3.5 Billion Child Care Grants: Provides funding for childcare programs for essential workers including emergency responders such as paramedics and EMTs.

Not all of the provisions the AAA had advocated for inclusion in the package were addressed in some way. This is likely not the last legislative package that the Congress develops to combat COVID-19 and we will advocate for our provisions to be included in future packages. We will also continue to push these issues through regulatory and other legislative efforts as outlined below.

Regulatory and Additional Legislative Efforts

Coverage of Treatment in Place and Alternative Destination

On March 11, the AAA sent a letter to CMS Administrator Seema Verma asking the agency to wave regulatory restrictions for treatment in place and transport to alternative destinations and for Medicare to cover these services related to potential COVID-19 cases. CMS had initially indicated they do not think they have the authority to wave the restrictions under the 1135 Waiver, but the AAA is continuing to work with CMS to provide payment for these services when provided to Medicare beneficiaries.  A press release from the House Republican leadership suggests that this issue is being addressed.

Employee Tax Credit for EMS Training and Uniforms

While the stimulus package includes reimbursement for training and equipment for first responders, it did not include the specific request for an above-the-line tax credit for paramedics and EMTs for training and uniforms paid by the employee. Earlier this year, AAA representatives had met with staff of Congressman Suozzi (D-NY), who sponsored the tax credit language which passed the House late last year, on how we can press the Senate to consider the provision. The AAA will continue to work with Congressman Suozzi on other opportunities to pursue the tax credit.

Federal Benefits during COVID-19 for All Paramedics and EMTs

Several paramedics and EMTs who worked for private ambulance service organizations lost their lives on September 11, 2001, while responding to the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center. Then-Attorney General John Ashcroft extended Public Safety Officers Benefits (PSOB) to the surviving family members of those paramedics and EMTs. The AAA is sending a letter to Attorney General William Barr asking him to provide the same consideration for paramedics and EMTs responding to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The AAA Will Keep Fighting

We will continue to press the Congress and federal agencies for help to ensure ambulance service organizations and our paramedics and EMTs serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic have the necessary resources and financial assistance to serve their communities.

We greatly appreciate the efforts of all of our members who contacted their members of Congress in support of relief and resources for ambulance services

AAA members can register for our free members-only webinar here

2019 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2019 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

Region I

Director (2021)

Jim Finger
Chief Executive Officer/ Administrator
Regional Ambulance Service
Rutland, VT


 

Alternate Director

Reginald Allen
Chief Executive Officer
CHS Mobile Integrated Health Care
Rochester, NY

 

Region II

Director (2021)

Josef Penner
Executive Director
Mecklenburg EMS Agency – Medic
Charlotte, NC

 


Alternate Director

Terence Ramotar
Regional Director
American Medical Response
Tampa, FL

 

Region III

Director (2021)

Wayne Jurecki
Vice President / Chief Operating Officer
Bell Ambulance Service, Inc.
Milwaukee, WI

 


 

Alternate Director

Tom Tornstrom
Executive Director
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance
La Crosse, WI

 

Region IV

Director (2021)

Jamie Pafford-Gresham
Chief Executive Officer
Pafford Medical Services, Inc.
Hope, AR

 


 

Alternate Director

David Tetrault
Administrator/Chief Executive Officer
St. Francois County Ambulance District
Farmington, MO

 

Region V

Director (2021)

Chris Archuleta
Chief Executive Officer
Superior Ambulance Service, Inc.
Albuquerque, NM


Alternate Director

JD Fuiten
Owner & President
Metro West Ambulance Service, Inc.
Hillsboro, OR

 

2019 AAA Election—Floor Nominations

To All AAA Members,

In accordance with the AAA Bylaws, floor nominations for the Board, Ethics and Honorary Membership positions for the 2019 election will be accepted by the AAA board prior to their approval of the slate of candidates. If you are interested in a position or nominating another member, but have not filled out your nomination form or candidate’s questionnaire, please contact a AAA Board member so they can place your name on the slate prior to the closing of nominations. All floor nominations must be received by 5:00pm Eastern on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. If you have any questions, please contact Maria Bianchi, AAA Executive Director (mbianchi@ambulance.org).

Please follow this link to contact a AAA board member.

Nominations Open – AAA Board of Directors!

Call For Nominations Now Open!

Submit a Nomination

Submit Candidate Questionnaire

In accordance with the Bylaws of the American Ambulance Association, it is time to call for members in good standing that wish to serve on the Board of Directors. The AAA is now seeking candidates for the following positions:
  • Region I Director (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI & VT)
  • Region II Director (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN WI)
  • Region IV Director (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as Regional Director must:

1. Be the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

6. Have served on at least one (1) Association committee within the past five (5) years prior to his or her declaration as a candidate for election as a Director.

There are no restrictions against an individual running for more than one position in the same election cycle, though no person shall hold more than one position simultaneously.

All those who wish to stand for election and believe they are qualified are requested to complete a Nomination Form as well as answer the Candidate Questionnaire which describes both their qualifications and reasons for wanting to participate in the leadership of the AAA.

(Please note that the may Nomination Form be completed by any designated contact employed by a AAA active member for him or herself, or on behalf of another designated contact employed at a fellow AAA active member service. The Candidate Questionnaire must be completed by the nominee.)

Candidates’ statements and pictures, as well as the position(s) for which they are running for will be listed on the AAA website once their candidacy has been certified by the Nominating Committee.

2019 Election Timeline

  • 8/5 | Nominations Open
  • 9/9 | Nominations Close
  • Week of September 16th Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
  • 9/30 | Voting Opens
    Election will be paperless and held online. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
  • 10/25 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
  • 11/5 | Election results announced at the 2019 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

Both forms must be submitted to by Monday, September 9, 2019

Step 1: Nomination Form    Step 2: Candidate Questionnaire

Questions? Please contact acamas@ambulance.org for assistance.

2018 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2018 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

President-Elect

President-Elect (2020)

Shawn Baird
Co-Owner
Woodburn Ambulance Service, Inc.
Woodburn, OR

 

Treasurer

Treasurer (2020)

Julie Rose
CEO/Executive Director; Board Secretary/Treasurer
Community Care Ambulance
Ashtabula, OH

 

Secretary

Secretary (2020)

Randy Strozyk
Executive Vice President
American Medical Response
Seattle, WA

 

Region I

Director (2020)

Mike Addario
Vice President of Operations – New York
American Medical Response
Syracuse, NY


 

Alternate Director

Reginald Allen
Chief Executive Officer
CHS Mobile Integrated Health Care
Rochester, NY

 

Region II

Director (2020)

Chuck Kearns
Chief Executive Officer
Mercy Ambulance Service d/b/a Chatham EMS
Savannah, GA

 


Alternate Director

Terence Ramotar
Regional Director
American Medical Response
Tampa, FL

 

Region III

Director (2020)godden-kim

Kimberly Godden
Vice President, Legal and Corporate Compliance
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.
Elmhurst, IL

 


 

Alternate Director

Tom Tornstrom
Executive Director
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance
La Crosse, WI

 

Region IV

Director (2020)lehman-angie

Angela Lehman
Chief Revenue Officer
Emergency Medical Services Authority
Tulsa, OK

 


 

Alternate Director

Doug Hooten
Chief Executive Officer
MedStar Mobile Healthcare
Fort Worth, TX

 

Region V

Director (2020)

Paul Pedersen
Managing Partner
Arizona Ambulance Transport
Sierra Vista, AZ


Alternate Director 

Rob Lawrence
Chief Operating Officer
Paramedics Plus
San Leandro, CA

 

Nominations Open – AAA Board of Directors!

Call For Nominations Now Open!

Submit a Nomination

Submit Candidate Questionnaire

In accordance with the Bylaws of the American Ambulance Association, it is time to call for members in good standing that wish to serve on the Board of Directors. The AAA is now seeking candidates for the following positions:
  • President-Elect
  • Treasurer-at-Large
  • Secretary
  • Region I Director (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI & VT)
  • Region II Director (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN WI)
  • Region IV Director (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as President-Elect, Treasurer-at-Large, or Secretary must meet the following criteria:

1. Be an employee of and the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

6. Have served on the AAA Board within the past five (5) years prior to his or her declaration as a candidate for election as a President-Elect, Treasurer-at-Large, or Secretary.

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as Regional Director must:

1. Be the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

6. Have served on at least one (1) Association committee within the past five (5) years prior to his or her declaration as a candidate for election as a Director.

There are no restrictions against an individual running for more than one position in the same election cycle, though no person shall hold more than one position simultaneously.

All those who wish to stand for election and believe they are qualified are requested to complete a Nomination Form as well as answer the Candidate Questionnaire which describes both their qualifications and reasons for wanting to participate in the leadership of the AAA.

(Please note that the may Nomination Form be completed by any designated contact employed by a AAA active member for him or herself, or on behalf of another designated contact employed at a fellow AAA active member service. The Candidate Questionnaire must be completed by the nominee.)

Candidates’ statements and pictures, as well as the position(s) for which they are running for will be listed on the AAA website once their candidacy has been certified by the Nominating Committee.

2018 Election Timeline

  • 5/14Nominations Open
  • 6/29 | Nominations Close
  • Week of July 9th | Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
  • 7/30 | Voting Opens
    Election will be paperless and held online. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
  • 8/27 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
  • 9/7 | Election results announced at the 2018 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

Both forms must be submitted to by Friday, June 29, 2018

Step 1: Nomination Form    Step 2: Candidate Questionnaire

Questions? Please contact acamas@ambulance.org for assistance.

2017 AAA Board of Directors Election Results

The winners of the 2017 AAA Board of Directors election are listed below. Please join us in thanking all candidates for their service to the American Ambulance Association.

Region I

Director (2019)

Jim McPartlon
President
Mohawk Ambulance Service

 


 

Alternate Director

Mike Addario
Vice President Operations – New York
American Medical Response

 

Region II

Director (2019)

Josef Penner
Executive Director
MEDIC EMS Agency

 


Alternate Director

Larry Wiersch
Chief Executive Officer
Cetronia Ambulance Corps, Inc.

 

Region III

Director (2019)

Wayne Jurecki
Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
Bell Ambulance, Inc.

 


 

Alternate Director

Tom Tornstrom
Executive Director
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance

 

Region IV

Director (2019)

Alternate Directortetrault-david

David Tetrault
Administrator/ CEO
St. Francois County Ambulance District

 


Alternate Director

Doug Hooten
Chief Executive Officer
MedStar Mobile Healthcare

 

Region V

Director (2019)

Chris Archuleta
CEO
Superior Ambulance Service, Inc.

 


 

Alternate Directorpaul-pedersen

Paul Pedersen
Chris ArchuletaManaging Partner
Arizona Ambulance Transport

 

Ethics Committee

Ethics Committee (2019)

Deb Bode
Billing Manager
Lifeline Ambulance LLC.

Jamie Chebra
Director
JFK EMS

Ken Morris
Executive Vice President
Life EMS Ambulance

James “Jim” Winham
Chief Operating Officer
Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA)

2017 Board of Director Candidates

Election Timeline | Board Candidates | Ethics Committee Candidates

The 2017 AAA Election is going paperless and this year’s election will be held entirely online. Primary contacts of Active Single State and Multi-State Members are permitted by AAA’s bylaws to vote in board elections.

Election Timeline

  • 10/11 | Voting Opens
    Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email from announcement@associationvoting.com. If you have questions about your organization’s voter, please email Aidan Camas at acamas@ambulance.org
  • 11/2 | Voting Closes 11:59pm (Eastern)
  • 11/14 | Election results announced at the 2017 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

Slate of Candidates

Thank you and best of luck to this year’s slate of talented and seasoned board candidates.

Region I (4)

Region I Director—4 Candidates

Region 1

ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, NY, CT, NJ

Mike Addario

Vice President Operations – New York
American Medical Response

Candidate Statement

Thank you for considering me as a director for Region 1. While a relative new-comer to the AAA, I have extensive experience in the EMS industry as a provider, leader and advocate. I firmly believe that we all share the same goal – to serve our communities and customers with excellence in care. However, we strive to do so in a rapidly changing environment that presents growing challenges to our industry. Since the release of “Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society” more than 50 years ago, so much has changed in EMS and in healthcare in general. As we look to the future, our long-term sustainability as an industry will be predicated upon our ability to adapt to this changing environment.The American Ambulance Association, through the participation of its members, is vitally important to our industry as we face these changes. It is my desire to be an advocate for the members in Region 1 as we prepare for the future and work toward the continued evolution of our industry.

History of Career in EMS

I started my career in 1983 after I took my first EMT class at Golden Cross Ambulance Service in Claremont, NH. I began working for Golden Cross as an EMT that year and continued working after I became a paramedic in 1987. I also volunteered for the University of New Hampshire-Durham Ambulance Corps from 1984 to 1986 while attending the University of New Hampshire. In 1988 I began work as a paramedic for Eastern Paramedics in Syracuse, NY. I became a supervisor in 1992 and continued to work in that capacity after Eastern was acquired by Rural/Metro in 1994. I became an operations manager in 1996 and General Manager in 1999. In 2014 I was promoted to Vice President of Operations for New York and remain in that capacity today with AMR. I also have experience as flight paramedic for the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department/University Hospital air-medical program and as paramedic preceptor and board member for the Upstate Medical University’s paramedic program. I currently serve as a member of the United New York Ambulance Network, and served for more than a dozen years on the Central New York Regional Emergency Medical Services Council and Onondaga County Ambulance Board. Within the community, I served as chair of the American Heart Association’s Central New York Chapter in 2006 and in 2013 and as Chair of Leadership Greater Syracuse (LGS) from 2013 to 2015. LGS was founded in 1990 as a partnership between the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, Onondaga Community College and Centerstate CEO with a mission to inspire current and future leaders to make a difference in the community.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Reimbursement (Declining reimbursement and antiquated reimbursement models).
2. Outdated regulatory environment at the federal and many state levels.
3. EMS provider recruitment and retention.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Recognition and promotion of the ambulance industry’s current and future role in the healthcare spectrum, especially as it relates to the role of our EMS professionals. We need to transition away from the paradigm of transportation and focus on our evolving role as a key member of the healthcare community.
2. Payment reform to ensure a long-term, financially sustainable reimbursement model for our industry that is reflective of our changing environment. In concert with payment reform, we should focus on equal access to federal funding opportunities for workforce development. In 2012, total federal funding obligated to healthcare workforce development exceeded $14 billion.
3. Regulatory reform that positions our industry to be able to more readily adapt to our changing role within healthcare so we can continue to bring high quality care to our patients and the communities we serve well into the 21st century. We also need to continue advocating for regulatory reform that leads to a more streamlined focus on fraud, abuse and waste while easing regulatory burdens placed upon ambulance services.


Reginald Allen

CEO
CHS Mobile Integrated Health Care

Candidate Statement

I have enjoyed participating on AAA committees. I currently serve on the Professional Standards Committee, Payment Reform Committee, and represent the AAA on the EMS 3.0 Committee. I have been involved in EMS for the past 35 years, serving in many capacities. I am interested in sharing my experience with fellow members of AAA and serve to support the efforts of the AAA.

History of Career in EMS

I began my EMS service as an Explorer at the Gates Volunteer Ambulance in 1978. In 1980 (when I was 18 years old) I became a medic on the ambulance. At that time advanced first aid was all that was needed to be a medic. I also joined the Volunteer Fire Department in 1980. I attained EMT certification in 1983. I rose through the ranks at Gates Ambulance and served for 5 years as the Chief of Operations. I also rose through the ranks at the Volunteer Fire Department and attained the rank of Battalion Chief. I was working full time in the Safety industry during this time. I also worked part time at Monroe Ambulance, a commercial ambulance service providing 911 emergency service to the City of Rochester, NY. I taught Paramedic classes between 1997 and 2002 at the local Community College and started up a paramedic program at Jefferson Community College in Watertown, NY. I was hired as the Chief of Ontario County Advanced Life Support in 2004 and served in that position until 2007. I was hired as the Chief of Henrietta Ambulance in 2007 and continue my employment. In 2017, Henrietta Ambulance merged with Chili Ambulance and Scottsville Ambulance and our corporation name was changed to CHS Mobile Integrated Health Care and I was named CEO.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Continue to ensure excellence in the ambulance services industry and provide research and educational programs that will have a positive impact on the services to help address the recruitment and retention issues that we in EMS are currently faceing.
2. Recognition of Paramedics and EMTs as a profession and paying a livable wage and agencies as providers.
3. Community Paramedicine or similar programs to help reduce overall health care costs and have patients treated at the most appropriate location, be it home, urgent care, physicians office, ED, etc.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Engagement of the EMS Community. We need a common voice to our communities and legislators to effect change to move our profession forward.
2. Lobby for stabilized and appropriate funding for EMS agencies
3. Recognition as EMS as essential emergency service and recognition as a provider for payors.

 


John Iazzetta

Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
Alert Ambulance Service, Inc.

Candidate Statement

The AAA serves a vital role by advocating and lobbying for essential reforms, educating members and providing even the smallest companies access to industry experts and services. These important things are only accomplished with a guidance, hard work and dedication of a strong Board of Directors. I feel that as the Region I Director I can help the AAA further its mission.

History of Career in EMS

I began as a 17 year old cadet EMT on my local volunteer first aid squad. I got my first paying job as an EMT with a small, private, family owned ambulance service while attending college. In 1997, after getting a job as a Dispatcher at Monoc (New Jersey’s largest EMS provider), I began Paramedic school. After working as a staff Paramedic for quite a few years, I eventually made my way into management. I was Monoc’s ALS Operations Coordinator when I left to become the Director of Operations at Alert Ambulance Service; a large, family owned private company transporting over 100,000 patients a year. A few years later I was promoted into my current position of VP & COO.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Ambulance Payment Reform.
2. Recruitment & Retention of EMTs & Paramedics.
3. Educating the Public as to who we are and what we really do.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Advocating and Lobbying for Ambulance Payment Reform.
2. Facilitating Provider Education through Webinars, Workshops and Conferences.
3. Providing access to services such a HR and Legal advice to even the smallest companies so as to further our industry as a whole.


Jim McPartlon

President
Mohawk Ambulance Service

Candidate Statement

Many challenges continue to occur with Medicare Relief Extensions and Payment Reform which I would like to continue working on. I would like the opportunity to continue to share my experience and vision on the AAA Board of Directors. I would be honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve the AAA members and not only advance our solid foundation, but use the knowledge that I have obtained over 40 years in the ambulance industry to provide unparalleled service to those who depend on us. As a current the AAA Board Director, and former Treasurer, and Past President, I have personally worked with Senator Schumer, his office, and other Congressional Offices to secure Medicare Relief for all of us. I would like the opportunity to continue working on our behalf in an effort to promote additional Medicare Relief, encourage permanent payment reform and, most importantly, be your voice on the significant issues that challenge this vital industry. Your vote for me to represent you on the Board of Directors of the American Ambulance Association will allow me the chance to once again, work on your behalf. If ever you need to reach out to me, please call me at (518) 346-5060. I ask for your vote and support for Region 1 Director.

.History of Career in EMS

I began working on the ambulance in high school, continued through college and became active with the AAA as a member upon graduating college. I have remained actively involved in EMS and it has remained my life’s work.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Reimbursement
2. Employee Recruitment & Retention
3. Management Bench Strength

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Reimbursement for its members
2. Membership Development
3. Educational Sessions.

Region II (2)

Region II Director—2 Candidates

Region 2

PA, WV, MD, VA, NC, SC, GA, FL, DC, DE, MS, AL

Josef Penner

Executive Director
MEDIC EMS Agency

Candidate Statement

The AAA’s advocacy on national reimbursement is critical to success of EMS delivery. Reform of the healthcare systems and payment systems like Medicare must progress with a strategic framework that represents the needs of all members and their communities. We must develop effective programs that help members identify and engage employees into becoming the leaders of tomorrow. The Association cannot be all things for all folks; rather it should aim to convene and connect members to ideas, technical information and competency development to advantage their success in the local marketplace.

History of Career in EMS

Joe Penner is the Executive Director for Medic, the paramedic service for the Charlotte, North Carolina area. He is a Fellow and Board Certified in Healthcare Management by the American College of Healthcare Executives, Board member for the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, Chairman of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Housing Coalition and Charlotte Rotary Board Member. Mr. Penner is an active member of the American Ambulance Association and North Carolina EMS Administrators Association. He holds an MBA from Marquette University, completed training as an Improvement Advisor with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and graduated from the UCLA/Daniel Freeman Hospital School of Paramedics.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Improving reimbursement.
2. Reducing costs and simultaneously improving access and quality.
3. Leveraging access points (like EMS) to connect people to the care they need.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Defending and improving Medicare reimbursement.
2. Educating members to navigate opportunities brought by healthcare reform.
3. Provide / facilitate useful educational opportunities for our members.


Larry Wiersch

Chief Executive Officer
Cetronia Ambulance Corps., Inc.

Candidate Statement

I am proud of my service to EMS and our AAA Board as a Region II Alternate Director. During this time of uncertainty and constant change, I will continue to work hard for our association members to ensure that whatever we do for our industry serves our patients and our dedicated professionals with the very best. We need leadership that understands the need to change, challenges the “status quo” on issues that affect our members. Our members, our patients and our communities deserve national leadership that incorporates meaningful processes that supports healthy debate that achieves outcomes with the best possible results.
I believe that my past involvement with the AAA as a Board member for more than ten years and also on multiple committees including government affairs, professional standards, federal reimbursement and numerous other special work groups gives me insight into methods that work. While we must not dwell in the past, we must learn from it while moving forward into the future. I promise, that I will do my very best to represent our region, our association, our employees and most importantly our life saving mission. I will always promote quality EMS that represents all provider types, support good governance and embrace healthy change that saves more lives and allows us to deliver on our promise of service to our community.

History of Career in EMS

I my career in EMS in 1976 as one of the first crews on newly formed Upper Saucon Ambulance in Center Valley, PA where I volunteered as an advanced first aid certified provider. I progressed to one of the regions first emergency medical technician graduates in 1977 and became a paramedic in 1982 where I served as one of the first paramedics on newly formed South Mountain Area Medic Five in Center Valley Pennsylvania where I also volunteered until moving to a full time EMS career in the mid 1980’s. I have worked for the City of Allentown Paramedics, Upper Bucks Paramedics, and began my career with Cetronia Ambulance Corps in 1982 as a volunteer and later accepting a full time Paramedic Supervisors position in 1989; Director of Operations in 1992 and Chief Executive in 1998, a position that I hold today. I am a 1995 Graduate Cum Laude of Allentown College of Saint Francis DeSales, with a Bachelor in Safety Management and a Certificate in Business Management. I also am a graduate of The University of Maryland Baltimore County Campus with a Master of Science in Emergency Health Services with a GPA of 4.0.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Reimbursement.
2. Strategic Development of alternative revenue streams and sustainability plans.
3. Succession and staff development planning.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Reimbursement.
2. Government Affairs.
3. Professional Standards.

Region III (2)

Region III Director—2 Candidates

Region 3

MI, WI, IL, OH, KY, TN, IN

Wayne Jurecki

Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
Bell Ambulance, Inc.

Candidate Statement

My name is Wayne Jurecki and I am honored to have been elected, and to serve, as Director – Region III of the American Ambulance Association since 2015. I have been involved with the Association since the early 1990’s. Previously I had been a co-chair of the Medicare Regulatory Committee, member of the Strategic Planning Workgroup, and speaker at both the Reimbursement and Annual conferences of the Association.

I am the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Bell Ambulance, Inc. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I have been with Bell for 33 years and started by doing data entry in the Billing Office. During my time at Bell I have worked in the Billing, Accounting, Human Resources, and Information Technology Departments. In 2003 I became Vice President and in 2011 became the Chief Operating Officers. I was instrumental in the drafting and negotiation of several service contracts, including Bell’s involvement in the City of Milwaukee’s 911 system. I have been involved in Bell’s growth from three locations within the City of Milwaukee to nine locations in Southeastern Wisconsin.

I am seeking re-election to the position of Director – Region III of the American Ambulance Association. I feel I can continue to be beneficial to the Association as we attempt to secure long-term reimbursement and regulatory reforms for the ambulance industry.

History of Career in EMS

I am currently a Director – Region III of the American Ambulance Association, and Director on the Catalyst Insurance, Ltd. Board. I have been involved in EMS with Bell Ambulance since 1985. I have worked in the Billing, Accounting, Dispatching, and IT departments over the intervening years. Significant involvement in Bell’s contract negotiations with the City of Milwaukee and Hospital Systems. Ongoing influence on local Ordinance revisions affecting the ambulance industry in the City and County of Milwaukee. Instrumental with the Professional Ambulance Association of Wisconsin’s contract negotiations with the State Division of Health regarding non-emergency transportation services to Medicaid recipients. I have been involved with the AAA for over 20 years.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Sustainability under increasing regularity and fiscal pressures
2. Uncertainty of non-emergency transportation coverage
3. Uncompensated and under-compensated care

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Obtain long-term reimbursement relief
2. Obtain/ensure a consistent industry message
3. Maintain/expand the AAA’s influential position on regulatory issues


Tom Tornstrom

Executive Director
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance

Candidate Statement

I am excited to seek candidacy to represent Region III on the AAA board of directors. My career in EMS began in 1990 as a volunteer EMT for a small town in the Midwest. It didn’t take long as an EMT to change my career goal from law enforcement to EMS and it was the right move for me. I love EMS and will continue to do my part to ensure its healthy future.

Having held numerous positions from EMT, paramedic, technology supervisor, manager, and on to my current role for the past eight years as an executive director has given me a strong understanding of our profession and industry. I’m experienced with rural and urban operational, financial, clinical, and political challenges inherent and unique to our profession. I have a very strong interest in business management processes and the use of technology in working toward better patient outcomes and improved efficiencies.

As an executive board member of the Professional Ambulance Association of Wisconsin (PAAW), I demonstrate my advocacy for our members by being integrally involved in new and exciting legislation which benefit all ambulance service providers in the state. I know first-hand the current struggles our profession faces and realize that we must work hard on many levels to prepare for and shape our future.

As a Region III board representative I will strive to represent our profession and region with professionalism, competence, and optimism. I appreciate your consideration of my candidacy.

History of Career in EMS

1990: EMT – volunteer in Caledonia, MN
1994: Paramedic – full time with Tri-State Ambulance, La Crosse, WI
2006: Supervisor – operations and technology
2008: Operations supervisor
2009: Executive Director (three related companies)

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Proving our worth by adequately improving and proving patient outcomes.
2. Reimbursement levels and their cause/effect.
3. Recruitment and retention.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Reimbursement improvement/sustainability.
2. Promotion of the profession as a career.
3. Greater integration with healthcare.

Region IV (3)

Region IV Director—3 Candidates

Region 4

KS, OK, TX, LA, AR, IA, MN, MO, SD, ND, NE

Daniel Gillespie

Dan-imageRegional President
Allegiance Mobile Health of Texas

Candidate Statement

As an active member of the AAA, I am proud to have previously served on the board as alternate director for region 4, and currently serve on the Non-Emergency Task Force. I believe strongly in the work that the AAA does on behalf of EMS in America. I will continue to personally support the collective efforts of our industry in both monetary, and time commitments. As we progress thru a new legislative cycle it is imperative that our message is heard loud and clear by our leaders in D.C. We must also stay focused on operational issues plaguing our industry such as paramedic shortages and limited access to educational systems in our rural areas that produce new medics and EMT’s. If chosen, I will continue to work diligently along side the AAA leadership to protect the fabric of our industry and to further the advancement of the EMS profession.

History of Career in EMS

EMT – Wayne Township Fire Department Indianapolis, IN
Director of Public Relations – Care Ambulance Service. Indianapolis, IN
EMS/Critical Care Transport Program Manager – St. Vincent Hospital. Indianapolis, IN.
Indiana Division General Manager – Rural/Metro Ambulance
Executive Director – Gateway Ambulance. St. Louis, MO.
Vice President of Operations – Allegiance Ambulance. Corpus Christi, TX.
Regional President – Allegiance Mobile Health. South/Central Texas

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Funding and Reimbursement.
2. Heavily regulated by multiple agencies with conflicting rules.
3. Staffing shortages and difficulty in recruiting due to pay limitations from the above mentioned issues.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. We MUST become recognized as a provider with CMS to further our profession. We will continue to be limited in both scope and in reimbursement options as long as we are a supplier.
2. We must work to get reimbursed by CMS at a level that meets or exceeds our cost to operate.
3. We need to work closely with the current presidential administration to begin eliminating the efficiency crushing regulations and reform our payment structure.


Douglas Hooten

Chief Executive Officer
MedStar Mobile Healthcare

Candidate Statement

America’s healthcare system is dramatically changing. Healthcare finance reform has created a dramatically new environment for all types of providers, including ambulance providers. The leadership of the American Ambulance Association needs to prepare its members to navigate this new environment. MedStar Mobile Healthcare has successfully capitalized on this new environment and if re-elected, I will continue to assist the members of the Association thrive in this new environment.

Working with local and national officials, too often I hear their frustrations about the complexity of the financial models of industry. We must help our membership and industry enhance our financial acumen and economic agility to test new payment models. At MedStar, we have done exactly that – testing several new payment models, with more to be tested in the near future. We also hear from our external partners that the ambulance industry as very fragmented messages within the DC beltway and with large national payers. One of my goals will be to help bring external message clarity to the profession.

Our customer’s expectations are changing – most notably, the desire to carefully shift from volume-to-value based economic models. Our industry leadership is currently ill prepared to make this shift, primarily because we have not taught them how. Having worked diligently with numerous external partners on demonstrating, and getting paid based on the value we bring, as your Region IV representative, one of my goals will be to help facilitate educational opportunities based on value-based payment models to the AAA members.

History of Career in EMS

My EMS career began at the age of 18 working for my mother in her small ambulance service in south Texas as an EMT. Those humble beginnings led to a passion for the ambulance industry. In my early career, I worked as a Paramedic and Supervisor for the Montgomery County Hospital District in Central Texas. From there, my career took me through numerous senior management roles at Rural/Metro in Texas, Ohio, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. I then served as the Executive Director for the Kansas City, MO Public Utility Model (MAST) before accepting the position Senior Vice-President for Domestic Operations at AMR. I came home to MedStar in 2011 as their Chief Executive Officer.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Transitioning from fee for service to outcome-based payment models.
2. The changing expectations of current customers and entrance of new customers for our services into the market.
3. Demonstrating “value” of our service delivery model, or changing the model to demonstrate value.

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Making the temporary Medicare Add-Ons permanent.
2. Changing our payment focus away from simply Fee For Service payment to types of value-based payment model that pays us for the care we provide rather than the transport we supply.
3. Collaborating on unified key messages with other associations about the value the ambulance industry brings to our patients, our community and our payers.


David Tetrault

Administrator/ CEO
St. Francois County Ambulance District

Candidate Statement

As I run for the AAA Board of Directors Region 4 seat, I’m asking for your vote to continue our work bringing EMS forward. Let me be your voice on Capitol Hill as we continue to fight for both small, rural services as well as larger and urban providers. I will follow through, surface and address concerns within the region, and serve the needs of ambulance services across our nation to the very best of my ability.

I’ve served in EMS for more than 27 years, and have demonstrated my committed to EMS advocacy through attendance at hundreds of meetings and volunteering thousands of hours as a director and chair at both the state and national level.

As past president of the Missouri Emergency Medical Services Association and other positions I have been responsible for assisting and participating in planning, preparation, and execution of our annual meetings and workshops. I have also been instrumental in internal audits and the recommendation and implementation of financial procedures for MEMSA. I was a principal player in starting EMS day at the State Capital more than 10 years ago and am still actively involved in legislative activities and initiatives.

I am presently Chair of the AAA’s Membership Committee, in addition to Alternate Director for Region 4. I am also a proud past AAA Region 4 Director.

Given the opportunity, I will use all of my experience, skills, and abilities to drive results for YOUR ambulance service.

History of Career in EMS

BSB/M
Critical Care Paramedic University of Baltimore Maryland Provider
Experienced Provider, Instructor American Heart Association Instructor
ACLS Instructor, Regional Faculty American Heart Association
BCLS Instructor, Regional Faculty American Heart Association
PALS Instructor, Regional Faculty American Heart Association
ITLS Instructor, Affiliate Faculty-MO International Trauma Life Support
EPC Instructor National Association of EMT
AMLS, Instructor National association of EMT
PEPP ALS Course Coordinator American Academy of Pediatrics
Pediatric ITLS Instructor International Trauma Life Support
Advanced Stroke Life Support University of Miami Miller School Provider
Ambulance Strike TEAM/Task Force Leader

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Healthcare Reform, Medicare and Medicaid issues with understanding EMS
2. Making sure that EMS, stays in front and continues to be recognized in this country as part of the 3 first responders and held in the same light, strength and representation as Police and Fire.
3. Standardization across the country and less fragmentation among EMS providers

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Education, training, focused work on reimbursement for Ambulance services throughout the country
2. Communications to its members and growing strength in numbers and voices across the country
3. Moving EMS forward and continuing to make our voices heard loud and clear, and that we are here to stay. Keeping up with all the healthcare changes and reforming EMS for the future.

Region V (2)

Region V Director—2 Candidates

Region 5

AZ, CA, NV, UT, OR, ID, WY, MT, WA, HI, AK, NM, CO

Chris Archuleta

CEO
Superior Ambulance Service, Inc.

Candidate Statement

Last year I was voted to represent you in Region V as an Alternate to the Board of Directors. This has been a great experience working with the AAA Board of Directors. As a Director I’ve seen how much the Board of Directors are involved with issues that affect our industry, and how important it is to have active and members on the Board that are well versed with our industry.

In the past year we discussed changes and upcoming changes within our industry that affect us daily; changes in Federal regulations such as reimbursement, increased audits, and CMS expecting more and more from us as providers. Although we as an industry all feel the effects of the demands being placed upon us, I see that many of us as medium and small providers will have a difficult time trying to stay compliant while trying to stay fiscally viable. Many of us as small and medium providers live and operate within the communities we serve, and because we’re vested to our communities, we’re so entrenched and obligated to our communities that we don’t always have the time to voice our concerns to those handing down regulations that will affect our business. Therefore it’s important that we have someone representing us, someone who knows how these regulations will affect us. My concern is your concern, as many of the ambulance services in this country are small and medium sized services, and just like you, I have everyday concerns as I too am a medium sized provider, that when new regulations are handed down upon us, I wonder and worry how it will effect my business.

As your Director I want to involve myself as much as possible in voicing the concerns of our industry and how some regulation changes can affect the ambulance industry, and how the effects can impact the smaller and medium services. As I indicated above, I was elected last year as an alternate which gave me the experience to continue forward as a Director. This year I’m seeking your vote so that I can continue in representing you as a Director for Region V. Thank you for your consideration.

History of Career in EMS

I was an EMT and a paramedic between 1977 and 1986 while in the fire department, and prior to my becoming a fire investigator in the department. My role in EMS was limited until my deciding to go back into EMS in 1994 when I purchased the ambulance company I currently operate. The company I own started as a small privately owned service in NM to one of the larger private and territorial services in NM.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. The repeal and/or changes regarding the ACA
2. Medicare / Medicaid reimbursement
3. The lack of private sector paramedics available for employment

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. CMS regulatory issues and Medicare reimbursement
2. Legislative representation in Congress regarding the repeal or modification of the ACA
3. AAA increases in membership recruitment


Paul Pedersen

paul-pedersenManaging Partner
Arizona Ambulance Transport

Candidate Statement

I have served on the board for almost a year. I know first hand the good work the association does. I have had occasion to advocate with legislators for Medicare reform. The AAA’s work in advocating for members helps to create an environment in which we members can provide the professional services our patients deserve. The AAA offers an excellent array of services to members.

History of Career in EMS

Area General Manager for Southern Arizona, Rural/Metro Corp.
Co-founder, co-owner, Arizona Ambulance Transport.

Paul Pedersen is a graduate of the University of Arizona and holds a masters degree from St. Mary’s College of California. Pedersen is a 20 year veteran of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department in Tucson, retiring as a lieutenant. He retired as a lieutenant colonel from the U.S. Army Reserve. Pedersen has worked in the private sector managing the installation of public safety radio communications systems. He was the director of Clackamas County Oregon Communications Department and was general manager of Southern Arizona for the Rural/Metro Corporation. He has held board positions with the Red Cross in Tucson, Minneapolis and Portland, Oregon. He has also served as an instructor for numerous law enforcement training courses as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Top 3 Issues in Emergency Healthcare

1. Reimbursement/funding
2. Changing healthcare systems/delivery
3. Recruitment & retention

Top 3 Priorities for AAA

1. Reimbursement/funding
2. Be a viable and recognized player in healthcare (and the changes therein)
3. Market member benefits

Ethics Committee Candidates

Thank you to the following candidates for the AAA Ethics Committee. Voters may select up to four.

  • Deb Bode – Lifeline Ambulance LLC.
  • Jamie Chebra – JFK EMS
  • Ken Morris – Life EMS Ambulance
  • Michael Pieroni – MedEx Ambulance Service
  • Jim Winham – Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA)

Questions? Please contact acamas@ambulance.org for assistance.

2017 AAA Election Calendar

2017 Election Timeline

  • 8/31Nominations Close
  • 9/14 | Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
  • 10/11 | Voting Opens
    Election will be paperless and held online. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
  • 11/2 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
  • 11/14 | Election results announced at the 2017 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

Meet the Candidates

The AAA’s 2017 Election will be for the following positions:
  • Region I Director (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI & VT)
  • Region II Director (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN WI)
  • Region IV Director (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY)
  • Ethics Committee

 

 

Questions? Please contact acamas@ambulance.org for assistance.

Board of Director Nominations – Now Open!

Call For Nominations Now Open!

Submit a Nomination

Submit Candidate Questionnaire

In accordance with the Bylaws of the American Ambulance Association, it is time to call for members in good standing that wish to serve on the Board of Directors. The AAA is now seeking candidates for the following positions:
  • Region I Director (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI & VT)
  • Region II Director (AL, DE, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, VA, WV)
  • Region III Director (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, TN WI)
  • Region IV Director (AR, IA, KS, LA, MN, MO, OK, ND, NE, SD, TX)
  • Region V Director (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY

Individuals who wish to be considered for an elected position as Regional Director must:

1. Be the designated representative of an Active member of the AAA, in good standing;

2. Be ready to devote time and effort to matters which concern the Board of Directors and to actively participate in all Board activities;

3. Be prepared to assist other AAA members with concerns and problems which relate to the ambulance industry and the workings of the AAA; and,

4. Understand that these positions provide no compensation for time or reimbursement for expenses. All travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging and food are the responsibility of the individual and/or the sponsoring organization.

5. Be willing to comply with all governance policies of the association including, Conflict of Interest, Standards of Conduct, and Board Confidentiality, Public Comment and Lobbying Agreement (PDF).

6. Have served on at least one (1) Association committee within the past five (5) years prior to his or her declaration as a candidate for election as a Director.

There are no restrictions against an individual running for more than one position in the same election cycle, though no person shall hold more than one position simultaneously.

All those who wish to stand for election and believe they are qualified are requested to complete a Nomination Form as well as answer the Candidate Questionnaire which describes both their qualifications and reasons for wanting to participate in the leadership of the AAA.

(Please note that the may Nomination Form be completed by any designated contact for an AAA active member for him or herself, or on behalf of another designated contact at a fellow AAA active member service. The Candidate Questionnaire must be completed by the nominee.)

Candidates’ statements and pictures, as well as the position(s) for which they are running for will be listed on the AAA website.

2017 Election Timeline

  • 8/31Nominations Close
  • 9/14 | Approval of Candidates by AAA Board of Directors
  • 10/3 | Voting Opens
    Election will be paperless and held online. Ballots will be delivered to AAA Active Member primary contacts via email.
  • 11/2 | Voting Closes 11:59pm
  • 11/14 | Election results announced at the 2017 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

Both forms must be submitted to by Thursday, August 31, 2017

Step 1: Nomination Form    Step 2: Candidate Questionnaire

Questions? Please contact acamas@ambulance.org for assistance.

Free Post-Election Analysis Webinar for Members

Post-Election Analysis Webinar – Thursday, November 17th, 2:00pm EST

post-election-analysis

The recent elections resulted with Republicans taking control of the White House and retaining a majority in the House and Senate. In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, we will see a major shift from the policy positions of the current administration. It is likely that there will be immediate efforts toward the repeal, amendment, and replacement of the Affordable Care Act as well as tax reform and infrastructure improvement. Join us for this free webinar, and hear former Members of Congress Bill Paxon (R-NY) and Vic Fazio (D-CA), whom both served in their respective party leadership, give their analysis of the elections and of where the new Administration and Congress go from here.

Register Now

Unable to Attend?

No problem! All webinars will be recorded and available to stream On-Demand. Register now and watch on your own time!

Questions?

Please contact Colleen Crowley at ccrowley@ambulance.org.

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