VRSim, in partnership with the University of Saint Joseph, hosted the CT EMS Forum and Tech Demonstration this past February. The forum brought a spotlight to the importance of our essential workers, highlighting the unique career pathways that begin in and intersect with EMS, as well as the emergency medical care aspect that supports and protects everyone.

The event featured a documentary screening of “Honorable but Broken: EMS in Crisis” by filmmaker Bryony Gilbey.

Learn more about the film https://www.honorablebutbroken.org/.

After the screening, a group of panelists discussed themes from the film and how they represented the landscape of local EMS in Connecticut. The diverse collection of voices and perspectives, spanning private and public providers, government officials, and reputed training institutions, echoed the crisis in motion and voiced a need for action.

CT EMS Forum and Tech Demonstration - Panel — L to R: Moderator Brian Shactman, Melissa Osborne, Michael Purcaro, Sen. James Maroney, Trevor Harris, and Kate Coupe during a panel discussion on Emergency Medical Services and some of the challenges faced by the industry on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, at St. Joseph University in West Hartford, CT. Credit: Izetta Asikainen / CTNewsJunkie

“Why does it always take a crisis for government to do something…” “…I think there’s some concrete actions that can be done now, not just talked about.”
– Michael Purcaro, Vernon Town Administrator, Emergency and Risk Management Director

“It just falls on deaf ears… We’re going to continue to run into the red until we can’t anymore, and then the doors will close, and then we’ll see who answers the call.”
– Kate Coupe, Granby Ambulance Association, Paramedic

To listen to the panel discussion, check out the event recording here: https://youtu.be/EHFeZYHPJqI

Complementing the panel discussion was a brief demonstration of an immersive virtual reality training module for CPR and AED training developed by VRSim. The purpose of the demonstration was to show how using practical applications of immersive technology can provide engaging and dynamic training experiences that teach, track, and support professional development. Beyond educational and budgetary advantages, accessible VR technology can facilitate more flexible outreach efforts that bolster career awareness and interest.

VRSim aims to be a part of the solution to the EMS crisis “We’re into the technology, but we are not the answer. These are the people that are the answer” said Matthew Wallace, VRSim’s CEO and President, referring to the panelists and audience members in attendance.

VRNA EMS, VRSim’s latest immersive training module, seeks to alleviate strain by providing accessible, economical, and easy-to-use experiences that can support training, recruitment, and career awareness efforts.

To learn more about VRNA, visit: vrna.net