AMR crew on leave after forcing man from ambulance in Rochester

Robert Bell, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read

American Medical Response has released new details regarding its internal investigation into the Nov. 30 incident where a Rochester man was made to leave an AMR ambulance, collapsed on the sidewalk and was left unattended for more than two minutes by EMTs and police on the scene.

In a statement released Friday afternoon, AMR said it extends its "deepest condolences to the family of the patient involved in the event."

According to the private ambulance company, AMR contacted the New York State Department of Health Bureau of EMS and Trauma Systems for a formal investigation within 24 hours of reviewing the city's body camera video footage of the incident.

All involved AMR employees were interviewed on Jan. 16. The crew involved in the Nov. 30 incident are on administrative leave pending the outcome of all investigations.

AMR has been informed that the investigation may take up to 90 days and says they are maintaining a direct line of communication with city leadership. The City of Rochester is also conducting an investigation.

Investigation into AMR ambulance incident in Rochester NY

AMR says it's working with Service Employees International Union Local 200 to ensure a comprehensive investigative process, adhering to all guidelines stipulated in the collective bargaining agreement.

The company's national patient safety team is conducting a detailed review of the event and is evaluating operational protocols, policies, procedures, training and human factors. The review began on Jan. 17.

"At its conclusion, we will promptly implement the necessary changes," AMR said. "We remain unwavering in our commitment to the Rochester community and are focused on continuous improvement to provide the highest quality of care and support for all those we serve."

AMR's current four-year contract with the city of Rochester expires Nov. 30, 2024.

Contact Robert Bell at: rlbell@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter: @byrobbell & Instagram: @byrobbell. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: AMR crew on leave after removing man from ambulance in Rochester NY