AMR just short of Multnomah County's compliance standards after new ambulance model
Last summer, the county settled its dispute with AMR. By August 15, to allow some ambulances to operate with one paramedic and one EMT, instead of requiring all of them to have two paramedics.
New law restricts out-of-state armed forces from WA
The move aimed to ease the impact of a national paramedic shortage and improve response times.
Since then, AMR has hired over 45 new paramedics, with with anticipated graduation dates in 2025 and early 2026.
AMR is also implementing a new program to bring the BIPOC community into a career in EMS. They're offering 8 diversity scholarships in 2025 that will support communities of color with fully paid tuition for both EMT and paramedic school and guaranteed jobs when they graduate.
But despite these efforts, the county says AMR still hasn't met the 90% response time requirement in any month.
AMR says it's meeting 15 out of 16 compliance metrics — with response time being the only one still falling short.
'Currently we sit at 88% and change,' said Rob McDonald, AMR's regional manager for Oregon. 'What we know in our industry is making up 27% is difficult, but what we also know is making up the last 2% is also difficult. We're pretty confident that all data points to we should have this thing done.'
At its worst, AMR was only reaching 911 calls .
Some weeks, there were 20 to 30 hours where no ambulances were available — a situation known as 'Level 0.'
Look up! Lyrid meteor shower to peak over Portland
In recent months, that's changed. Level 0 time is now down to just minutes per week, and in late March, it was eliminated entirely.
'We now have the power to mitigate burnout and fatigue,' McDonald said
At its worst crews were running 10-12 calls in a 12-hour period. That's now dropped down to 5-7 calls, which AMR said is a much more manageable workload for their employees.
'We're encouraged by the upward trend by AMR, however AMR hasn't quite reached response time compliance,' said Dr. Richard Bruno, Multnomah County Health Officer. 'While this is a bridge to meet those response times, it's also a bridge time for AMR to grow their workforce and get back to their core contract.'
What Dr. Bruno means by that is that allowing the hybrid model is only meant to be temporary until the paramedic shortage in the country and county eases.
AMR has accrued $8 million in fines for missing performance targets — none of which have been paid yet. They can reduce that amount, but only if they meet all compliance metrics, including the 90% response time.
The next official update is set for August, when the county will review year-over-year progress. At that point, they'll have to decide whether to continue, modify or terminate the settlement agreement
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News24
a day ago
- News24
128 pupils discharged from hospital after food poisoning scare at Eastern Cape school
Gobizizwe Agricultural School pupils were hospitalised in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape for suspected food poisoning on Wednesday. They presented symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, seizures, and abdominal pains after having rice and tinned fish for lunch. Most of them have since been discharged, according to the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Most of the 131 Gobizizwe Agricultural School pupils who were hospitalised in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape for suspected food poisoning on Wednesday afternoon have been discharged. Emergency medical services (EMS) officials were called when the pupils fell ill shortly after receiving a meal from the school nutrition programme. According to Eastern Cape Department of Health spokesperson Siyanda Manana, the pupils had rice and tinned fish for lunch. He said they presented symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, seizures, and abdominal pains. Seven ambulances, three patient transport vehicles, three EMS rescue vehicles and a helicopter were dispatched, Manana added. READ | 214 children hospitalised after suspected food poisoning at Free State school's matric study camp 'The EMS brigade was partnered by the SAPS, OR Tambo Disaster Management, OR Tambo environmental health practitioners and Department of Education officials.' The pupils were treated at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha General Hospital and Ngangelizwe Community Health Centre. Initially, the department said the affected pupils were 70, but the number increased to 131 on Wednesday evening. Providing an update on Thursday morning, Manana said 128 of the pupils have since been discharged. 'Currently, there is one student who is admitted at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital while the other two are being monitored at Mthatha Regional Hospital and are being rehydrated.'
Business Upturn
4 days ago
- Business Upturn
ECHO India Launches Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh
ECHO India, a non-profit trust working for health system strengthening through capacity building, today launched an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. Business Wire India ECHO India, a non-profit trust working for health system strengthening through capacity building, today launched an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. The three-year pilot will be implemented in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh, engaging 400 healthcare professionals from tertiary care centres to strengthen capacity in rational antibiotic use and infection prevention. The program was inaugurated at the National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC) today. Antimicrobial resistance is recognised as one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, with the misuse and overuse of antibiotics accelerating the emergence of resistant pathogens. The program will use ECHO's proven hub-and-spoke model to mentor healthcare workers, guide clinical practice, and develop a cadre of master trainers capable of leading large-scale stewardship efforts. The event was attended by distinguished health experts, including Maj. Gen. (Dr) Atul Kotwal, Executive Director, National Health Systems Resource Centre; Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, President, Infection Control Academy of India; Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, President, Delhi Society for Promotion of Rational Use of Drugs (DPSRUD); Dr. Nusrat Shafiq, Professor Clinical Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) and Dr. Anuj Sharma, Technical Lead, World Health Organization India, along with technical experts and state health teams from Andhra Pradesh and Punjab. Maj. Gen. (Dr) Atul Kotwal, Executive Director, NHSRC , observed, 'Antimicrobial resistance is eroding the very tools that modern medicine depends on, threatening our ability to treat even common infections. We need a response that is both immediate and sustainable. The ECHO Model has proven its ability to build capacity at scale in a cost-effective way. It is the right platform to equip our healthcare professionals with the skills and judgement to use antibiotics responsibly, strengthen clinical governance, and protect public health for future generations.' Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, President, Delhi Society for Promotion of Rational Use of Drugs, highlighted the importance of an integrated approach, noting, 'Antimicrobial stewardship cannot function in isolation. It must work hand in hand with infection prevention and control, surveillance, and rational drug use policies. Only when these elements are integrated into routine practice can we create a health system resilient to the growing threat of drug resistance.' Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. (Col) Kumud Rai, Chairperson and Managing Trustee, ECHO India, said, 'If we are to win the fight against antimicrobial resistance, we must act now and act collectively. We are grateful to carry forth this mission with our partners in Andhra Pradesh and Punjab, working alongside such proven institutions of excellence in public health. This program is a crucial step towards building stewardship capacity, and our vision is to see similar initiatives reach every part of the country so that no community is left without access to the right knowledge and practice.' The purpose of the event was to bring together national and state health leaders, technical experts, and program partners to align strategies for implementing the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. While discussions covered resistance levels, stewardship frameworks, and curricula for clinical staff, state teams shared challenges and explored mentorship models to develop trainer networks. Together, these efforts reflect a shared mission to embed sustainable stewardship practices that protect the effectiveness of antibiotics and contribute to stronger health outcomes in the years ahead. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India. Business Upturn take no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Elle
05-08-2025
- Elle
These Eczema Moisturizers Deliver Quick, Visible Results
If you struggle with eczema flare-ups, you know just how crucial it is to find a nourishing, steroid-free cream—one that can calm the itch and help restore your compromised skin barrier. I've spent more nights than I can count chasing relief from relentless irritation, only to discover that none of the moisturizers in my stash made a meaningful difference. But once I did find the right treatments, the relief was nothing short of life-changing. Eczema often manifests as dry, itchy patches that appear red and scaly. During flare-ups, discomfort can intensify, leaving the skin raw or sensitive to the touch. Its causes are complex, tied to immune and environmental triggers, but understanding the condition is the first step toward effective care. Because eczema creams can vary significantly in their formulations, it's often challenging to determine which ingredients are actually doing the heavy lifting. We turned to Dr. Hallie McDonald, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of ERLY Skincare, to spotlight the best over-the-counter moisturizers that consistently come to the rescue. With extensive experience treating everything from eczema and acne to psoriasis, alopecia, and skin cancer, Dr. McDonald knows exactly what to look for (and what to avoid) when it comes to tackling this stubborn skin condition. 'When managing eczema flare-ups, I generally recommend moisturizers that are rich in hyaluronic acid, ceramide, and niacinamide,' says Dr. McDonald. 'These ingredients help restore the skin, reduce inflammation, and replenish moisture.' She also notes that product texture plays a vital role: 'Ointments and thick creams tend to be more effective than lotions because they form a stronger barrier on the skin. Vaseline or Aquaphor can be particularly helpful for eczema on the hands and feet.' When asked which skin care brands Dr. McDonald trusts most for managing eczema, she emphasized the importance of clinical integrity and gentle ingredients. 'I consistently trust and recommend CeraVe, Eucerin, ERLY, Vanicream, and Aveeno,' she explains. 'These brands are committed to hypoallergenic, clinically backed formulations, and they reliably deliver fragrance-free, therapeutic-grade products. I find them to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet effective for long-term eczema management.' After testing countless brands and taking into account the clinical guidance of Dr. Hallie McDonald, I've narrowed it down to the top 10 dermatologist-approved products that provide reliable relief during a flare-up. This cream, backed by the National Eczema Association, is one of my top choices for managing minor flare-ups on my face. I apply it to dry patches a few times a day for effective relief from irritation and itching. With no fragrances or parabens, it's gentle and works perfectly for sensitive skin. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter Size: 6.76 fl oz An Amazon reviewer says: 'This stuff is a miracle! A steroid cream can help with immediate itching, but after about six hours, you need something that actually solves the problem, and this does exactly that. I ended up using it to treat the same areas I had initially tried addressing with a moisturizing steroid cream: on my face, behind my ears, and in my armpits. It completely relieves both the itch and the rash.' Anyone who has dealt with eczema knows this classic cream is a must-have in the medicine cabinet. The generous size means you don't have to use it sparingly, and it's a reliable, affordable option that you can always keep stocked. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3, licochalcone Size: 8 oz An Amazon reviewer says: 'This lotion has soothed away the itching and cracked skin, so my skin feels like skin again. It's a nice and thick lotion which makes my hands feel pampered, and the oatmeal has really reduced what was quite severe itching.' If you're looking for a daily cream with a non-greasy formula and long-lasting hydration, this dermatologist-approved moisturizer is a great choice. It's suitable for both face and body, making it ideal for those who prefer a simple skin care routine. Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, petrolatum Size: 16 oz An Ulta reviewer says: 'Finding a moisturizer is hellish for me. They either leave me oily and breaking out, or I have to sit on the bathroom floor for ten minutes waiting for my face to stop burning. This is the only moisturizer I have ever found that doesn't produce these results. It is also very cheap—lots of bang for your buck.' Aveeno is known for its gentle formulas that quickly soothe irritated skin, and this deeply nourishing cream includes colloidal oatmeal for fast-acting relief. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3 Size: 7.3 oz An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is probably one of the best eczema lotions on the market. I had terrible Eczema in my T-zone on my face, and this was the only product out there that got it under control for me. The cream is nice and thick; it goes on smoothly and evenly.' This night moisturizer from ERLY, a skin care brand founded by Dr. Hallie McDonald, is a silky, soothing cream formulated for sensitive skin. Add it to your nighttime routine to wake up with skin that feels deeply hydrated and refreshed. Key ingredients: Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, biotin, peptides Size: 1.7 fl oz An Erly reviewer says: 'I am in my 60's and have had a very difficult time with dry skin. My dermatologist recommended so many products that did not work due to reactions to the chemicals. I have not had a single problem using this and am so thankful!' Ideal for sensitive skin, this moisturizing cream is free from harsh ingredients, and gentle enough for daily use to keep skin soft and smooth. Key ingredients: Petrolatum, sorbitol An Amazon reviewer says: 'I'm still stunned by how amazing this cream is. When I came across this and read the reviews, I decided to try it. It's very moisturizing, and it does not leave your skin looking or feeling greasy. It absorbs very nicely into the skin.' This intensely nourishing treatment from Murad combines ground cherry blend to calm itch and irritation, while colloidal oatmeal delivers fast, lasting relief. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ground cherry blend An Amazon reviewer says: 'This product is pricey but it works like a dream to sooth delicate skin and keep irritation away. I will always keep it on hand.' I like to keep a calming balm in my purse for emergencies, and this one has saved me more times than I can count. The pump application makes it quick and easy to use. Just dab it on your hands during winter outings or apply it all over for quick relief. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide complex, a blend of lipids, peptides and vitamins Size: 1.7 oz An Amazon reviewer says: 'Basic moisturizers either haven't worked well on my facial eczema or made my skin react. This actually works. It's a little pricey, but easy to use sparingly.' Key ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glacial glycoprotein An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is hands down one of the best moisturizers I've used. It's super lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated all day. I love that it doesn't feel greasy and works well under makeup. A little goes a long way, and it's gentle enough for sensitive skin. Worth every penny!' This rich, occlusive treatment is a must-have for severely dry, irritated skin. It delivers deep hydration while shielding compromised skin from itch and further discomfort. Key ingredients: Aloe vera, squalene, bisabolol, petrolatum A SkinCeuticals reviewer says: 'I've been using this Hydra Balm for two years now and absolutely love it-I couldn't live without it! It helps care for my dry skin, especially in areas around my face and lips. I would highly recommend this product; it lasts a long time as well.' Keep this in your bag for on-the-go relief when hands or feet feel painfully dry or on the verge of cracking. I also use it on my elbows when they're especially irritated. This ultra-hydrating cream absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft, soothed, and comfortable all day. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, lipids, peptides, vitamins Size: 3 fl oz A Sephora reviewer says: 'The only hand cream that actually improved my eczema! I no longer have to use steroid creams to soothe any flare-ups. In cold and dry climates, my hands usually crack and bleed, regardless of the non-steroidal product I use. After using this cream for 3-4 days, my eczema improved significantly. I'm no longer embarrassed about my hands.' For a soothing treatment that targets itch, try Avène's Calming Relief Balm. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides, it helps calm irritation, strengthen the skin barrier, and replenish essential lipids. Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, ad-rsyl Size: 3.3 fl oz An Amazon reviewer says: 'During the winter months, I always have trouble with dry, itchy patches on my hands. Using a product free of dyes and fragrances is essential to my well-being. This Avène lotion fits my needs nicely. In my opinion, the thickness falls between that of a lotion and a cream. It both calms and hydrates my needy skin. I like that it came with a safety seal over the opening and that the squeezable container is just the right size to carry in my handbag.' Dr. Hallie McDonald is a board-certified dermatologist based in Texas, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of skin conditions. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, commerce writer Laura Tarafa consulted dermatologists to identify the best moisturizers for eczema. Drawing on expert clinical guidance and hands-on testing of several products, she curated a list of top recommendations.
