Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Freedom House Ambulance Services
Feb 17, 2021
Discover the fascinating history of the Freedom House Ambulance Service, a groundbreaking group of EMTs established in Pittsburgh's Hill District. Learn how they trained local residents to provide essential medical care in underserved neighborhoods during the 1960s. Explore the evolution of CPR training and its cultural significance, while honoring influential figures like Dr. Peter Safar. The transformative legacy of this service reveals both community empowerment and the systemic challenges faced in healthcare.
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Origin of EMTs
- The Freedom House Ambulance Service, started in Pittsburgh's Hill District, was the first to use trained EMTs.
- It staffed its ambulances with young community members and provided life-saving services.
Paramedics: A Revolution in Emergency Care
- The concept of civilian paramedics, trained to perform life-saving procedures in ambulances, was pioneered by Dr. Peter Safar.
- This innovation revolutionized emergency medical care, shifting from simply transporting patients to providing on-the-scene treatment.
From Ragtag to Life-Savers
- George McCary joined Freedom House seeking employment and ended up as a trained paramedic.
- The initial team was diverse, including former drug addicts and veterans, who received extensive training under Dr. Safar.