AUGUSTA, Maine – Last week Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash appointed Scott Dow of Caribou to the Legislature’s newly-formed Blue Ribbon Commission to study the emergency medical services in the state. Dow is a professional firefighter paramedic for the Caribou Fire and Ambulance Department and serves as president of Caribou Professional Firefighters Local 5191.
“Scott Dow is someone who has dedicated himself to public service as a firefighter and paramedic serving Caribou” said Jackson. “His experience will bring great perspective to the Blue Ribbon Commission as it begins the work of making recommendations to the Legislature. He knows the importance of having excellent EMS providers on the scene in moments of crisis because he’s lived it. I am grateful for his willingness to serve on this Commission and look forward to hearing their recommendations.”
The Commission is tasked with examining the structure, support and delivery of emergency medical services in Maine. Dow will fill the role of a volunteer or employed EMS personnel representing a town of fewer than 10,000 people. The Commission will examine all aspects of emergency medical services, including workforce development, training, compensation, worker retention, costs, reimbursement rates, organization, and local and state support.
The Commission is authorized to hold six meetings, and will report their findings and suggestions to the Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety in December.
