Joscelyn :
I think this is a fantastic idea. Fire, EMS, and PD should be working together rather than operating in silos or at odds—especially on scene where timely collaboration can literally save lives. Side note: I was literally discussing this just last night with a friend, questioning why law enforcement has the authority to 5150 someone, but we as paramedics do not. Paramedics are trained to assess mental and medical conditions, and in many cases, we are the first to see the severity of a situation.
Ideally, there should be a collaborative discussion on scene, with both a LEO and a paramedic signing off. This could ensure that both medical necessity and public safety are balanced, and it would empower EMS to have a voice in critical behavioral health decisions. It’s a chance to shift the narrative from “who has authority” to “how can we best serve the patient?”
If implemented widely, this could reduce unnecessary escalation, improve patient outcomes, and foster mutual respect between agencies. It’s time we start viewing behavioral emergencies not as law enforcement problems or medical problems alone, but as community problems that require a team-based response.
2025-10-07 03:37:25