NEW YORK 鈥� The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) celebrated a historic milestone Tuesday, marking 50 years of paramedicine in the city with the premiere of its latest film, 鈥淎n Extraordinary Measure.鈥�
The 30-minute documentary, presented by the FDNY Foundation and the FDNY Pro Film Board, highlights the evolution of EMS in New York City since the first paramedics took the field five decades ago, the department stated in a .
Through interviews with FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields and members of the inaugural paramedic class, the film explores how advancements in technology and training have shaped modern pre-hospital care.
鈥淭his film is a look back at the storied history of emergency medicine in New York City 鈥� 50 years since the first class of paramedics began emergency medicine, pre-hospital care,鈥� Tucker said. 鈥淚t has changed rather significantly. Technology has changed, equipment has changed. ... All of it is very different today than it was five decades ago. ... But what hasn鈥檛 changed are the people, the dedicated people of this department who put their lives on the line in service of others 鈥� the men and women who are very highly trained and for whom empathy, care and quick thinking are second nature.鈥�
鈥淧ower in medicine has evolved from basic emergency response to a specialized profession that plays pivotal roles in saving lives and improving patient outcomes,鈥� Fields said. 鈥淩eflecting on the journey of power in medicine in New York City, we cannot overlook the significant advancements brought about. ... As we commemorate this milestone, it鈥檚 essential to recognize the dedicated work of paramedics, emergency medical technicians and healthcare professionals who have been at the forefront of emergency medical care in our city.鈥�
In conjunction with the film premiere, the FDNY announced the establishment of the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award 鈥� An Extraordinary Medal. This new honor, to be awarded annually at the FDNY Medal Day ceremony, will recognize a paramedic who has demonstrated outstanding lifesaving skills and service.
Proceeds from 鈥淎n Extraordinary Measure鈥� will support the FDNY Foundation鈥檚 lifesaving mission. The film is available for viewing at .
