Summary
Nearly 4.5 million Americans live in “ambulance deserts” — in a medical crisis, they have to wait as long as 25 minutes or more for an emergency medical crew to arrive. Nick Nudell, president of the American Paramedic Association, joins Ali Rogin to discuss what’s causing these shortages and what’s at stake for people in these regions. For a transcript of this story, click here . News wrap alternative : Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.Five Facts
- Who is interviewed for this story, and what is his background?
- What fundraising techniques do communities use for supporting local emergency health services?
- When were emergency health services designated as an essential service?
- How effective was this designation in creating funding for the ambulances?
- Why do some states like North Dakota have ambulance deserts despite having enough ambulances for the state?
Focus Questions
Why do you think other local government programs are often better funded than emergency health services? What do you think should be prioritized? News analysis: Why was an expert who is part of the health industry interviewed instead of one who is part of the government? Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?For More
What students can do: Research how volunteers can get involved to help with emergency health services, such as taking CPR classes. What opportunities for volunteering are available to students? Write a short list and discuss options as a class.STUDENT VIDEO OF THE DAY (February 15, 2018)
This lesson was written by Benjamin Thernstrom, a NewsHour Classroom intern, with editing by Luke Gerwe. Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.
