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REPRINTED FROM THENEXTMAYOR.COMApril 24, 2007 press release, (submitted via e-mail) |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2007
Contact: Kate Philips
215-988-0582
kate@bradyformayor07.com
Congressman Brady Announces Plan to Improve Philadelphia’s Emergency Response System
PHILADELPHIA – Congressman Bob Brady stood outside a fire station at 21st and Markets Streets with the Philadelphia Firefighters Union President Brian McBride today where he announced his plan for improving emergency response in Philadelphia. The Congressman said he was outraged to learn that candidate Tom Knox was fined for illegally advising patients to call their doctors before visiting the emergency room.
“As the seconds tick away during a medical emergency it is important that we have first responders trained as paramedics,” Brady said. “Twice this month I had to phone 911 for one of my family members—I cannot imagine the thoughts running through the minds of a family contemplating whether to follow their instincts or call their doctor.
“We can’t afford to risk lives for the bottom line—that’s why I am proposing that we improve the efficiency of our emergency medical services in Philadelphia.
As Mayor, Brady will imbed medically trained firefighters in each firefighting unit and create a “311” system for non-emergency calls. Currently there are 40 firefighters trained as paramedics who are prohibited from acting as paramedics by fire department regulations. Bob Brady will propose that we loosen the reign on these professionals and train 20 additional firefighters as medics.
“We must also create a 311 system to lessen the burden on our 911 system. This will give our residents more stream-lined access to city services.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: A copy of the Brady Emergency Response Plan is attached. Below are the facts detailing Tom Knox’s record on emergency response.
KNOX INSURANCE COMPANY ILLEGALLY ADVISED PATIENTS TO CALL THEIR DOCTOR BEFORE VISITING THE EMERGENCY ROOM
According to a May 2002 report by the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA), Fidelity Insurance Company was advising customers to call their doctor for permission to seek emergency care. The MIA pointed out that this was a clear violation of Maryland law:
On page three, “When Should You Go To The Emergency Room?”, the statement, “Remember to call your Primary Care Physician for authorization prior to visiting the emergency room or use one of our in-network urgent care centers” violates the prudent layperson law, §19-701(d) of the Health-General Article. [Maryland Insurance Administration, Fidelity Report No. 805-01. Pg. 44]
This and other violations led to a $70,000 fine assessed against Fidelity Insurance. Tom Knox purchased Maryland Fidelity Insurance in 1999 for $3 million. Five years later he sold Maryland Fidelity Insurance to United HealthCare for a net profit of $20 million.
As the next Mayor of Philadelphia Bob Brady will bring hope back to our city by fighting crime, investing in education and creating opportunity for all Philadelphians. www.bobbradyworks.com