Dozens sign online petition targeting MEDIC's response time

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Every second matters when you call 911.

Now, an online petition claims there are times when there isn’t even an ambulance available to respond right away.

"Over the years, I've had to call (the Mecklenburg EMS Agency) several times,” said Pat Cotham, Mecklenburg County commissioner. “I know the importance of someone getting there quickly."

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That’s why Cotham was alarmed to hear about the petition addressed to city and county leaders. It contains scathing details about MEDIC operations and is written by someone claiming to have inside information about the department.

Some of the most alarming claims are low and stagnant wages, and low staffing resulting in employee fatigue. The petition says, almost daily, there are times when no ambulance is available to respond to 911 calls. It also says poor system status management has extended response times to life-threatening calls.

"It's public safety, and we should be treating public servants with respect whether pay, vacation hours or anything. I think it's a valid complaint and (the) commission should listen to them,” said Christine Nelson Rotko, a Mecklenburg County resident.

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In response, MEDIC said staffing is not an issue.

Leaders said MEDIC continues to exceed response time compliance targets for life-threatening calls.

It also said staffing levels are currently on target. It said shifts that extend beyond schedule are an unfortunate reality in emergency management services and something they work to minimize on an ongoing basis.

Regarding the petition, MEDIC Executive Director Joe Penner said in a statement, “Medic leadership is deeply committed to providing the most enjoyable and rewarding work environment possible. EMS is difficult work, especially in an urban environment, and we are fortunate to work with the very best in the business.

"Everything at MEDIC is not perfect, and we work each and every day to find ways to improve what this agency has to offer the 600 plus people who work here. Concerns that are raised to leadership are taken very seriously and addressed as possible. It is regrettable when someone feels an anonymous online posting is the pathway to solve problems. I encourage those responsible to reach out to agency leadership and engage in meaningful dialogue so we can build bridges instead of tearing them down.”

Cotham said she hadn’t heard any of the complaints listed in the petition before.

Nearly three dozen people have signed the petition.

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