We’re providing members of our Southern Tier Child Advocacy Center Multidisciplinary Team with structured peer reviews of the forensic interviews they conduct. Forensic interviews are used to gather evidence from children who have suffered physical or sexual abuse. This will enable us to maintain our accreditation with National Children’s Alliance and ensure we’re providing best-practice, trauma-informed care to child victims assisted by the center. Linda Cordisco-Steele, M.Ed., LPC, Senior Trainer and Curriculum Chair at National Children’s Alliance will facilitate the peer-review program. Linda is a nationally recognized expert on forensic interview techniques. I’m very glad we’re able to bring world-class trainings and services to our rural community to assist professionals involved in our programs.
I’m very happy to report that the Regional Paramedic Training Program started Monday. We have 25 EMS providers in the class, 11 attending in Olean and 14 attending in Jamestown. This program uses distance-learning technology which enables students to attend the class at locations near their home communities. Following student and faculty recommendations during our last Regional Paramedic Program, we’ve extended the course from 12 to 14 months. I attended the State EMS Council meeting in Albany this week and there was discussion about possibly expanding our Regional Paramedic Program. If possible, that would be great. This innovative class gives EMS providers who have full-time jobs in other professions the flexibility to achieve certification as paramedics and protect their communities.