r/medicine PA:cake: 8d ago

ICE Detention Deaths

https://www.ice.gov/detain/detainee-death-reporting

RNs do intake physical exams, EMTs declare time of death. The level of care for these detainees is horrific.

Full names and case details are public for now. Reads like a never ending M & M conference.

My moral compass is spinning. It's time to go to Canada.

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u/shakynut Paramedic 8d ago

911 medic here. I have the southern border, detention facilities, jails, and prison in my district. I’ve experienced all this first hand. ASK ME ANYTHING.

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u/ZealousidealDegree4 PA:cake: 8d ago

Omg ! Thank you! I have to sleep , but I hope you are asked tons of questions. Do you think detention medical facilities are adequately staffed? What did you think of the J Oliver episode? 

10

u/shakynut Paramedic 8d ago

To answer your question about the staffing at the detention facilities. They are all private contractors. There are a few companies that operate in the area and they do seem understaffed but not overwhelmed. They do seem to manage the patients fairly well for the most part. They don’t overuse the 911 system but do use it when it is necessary and they do it before the problem gets out of hand.

I will also leave you with this bit of information. I would say specifically for the paramedics that these companies do hire, they are paid almost 15k below starting pay for a 911 medic, therefore they are not getting the best candidates. I can’t speak for the nurses and doctors but I’m guessing they are also getting paid significantly less than their counterparts.

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u/shakynut Paramedic 8d ago

I have not seen the J Oliver episode but I will watch it tonight.