Reverberations from Resignation EMS Paramedic Brad Jones
Turmoil in Hinsdale County’s Emergency Medical Service culminated last Thursday, April 9, with strongly-worded letters and social media post from Chief Paramedic Brad Jones announcing his resignation effective immediately.Jones, who worked with Hinsdale EMS for 5.5 years, starting with a volunteer position in 2020, was a well-known seasonal presence in Lake City who worked hand-in-hand with the local corps of Emergency Medical Technicians. He also worked closely with EMS Director Katherine Heidt and Western Slope Regional Medical Director Dr. Avery MacKenzie.As an extension of Dr. MacKenzie’s credentials, Hinsdale EMTs are allowed to provide medical care to patients and operate the county’s ambulance system.In the wake of Chief Paramedic Jones’ resignation last week, Dr. MacKenzie has now reduced the scope of local EMTs’ medical purvue from ALS — providing Advanced Life Support — to BLS, Basic Life Support.The change from ALS to BLS, according to EMS Director Heidt, also carries with it a significant reduction in the amount of medication which EMTs are allowed to administer. Heidt adds that the change in procedure results in “considerable impacts to everyone who lives and visits here.”Jones’ April 9 resignation comes in the immediate wake of a short special Hinsdale County Commissioners’ meeting last
