Joseph Jay Fitch

His body of work, spanning nearly 30 years, includes the development and implementation of original operational and strategic solutions for both individual EMS organizations as well as the broader systems in which they operate.  Dr. Fitch’s knowledge of the industry and his expertise in organizational development is built on real-world experience. He was among the first paramedics trained in the U.S. and was named EMS Director in St. Louis at the age of 24. He was responsible for the operational implementation of the public utility model EMS system in Kansas City and served as president of a large private ambulance service. Since creating Fitch & Associates, he has personally led numerous, complex projects reflecting the entire public safety spectrum, with results that have transformed emergency care for those communities.

From these varied experiences, Dr. Fitch learned to value the many perspectives—from patient to emergency provider to public official—that go into creating an exemplary EMS program. Since 1984, he and the consulting team at Fitch & Associates have worked with small and large organizations in 49 U.S. states and throughout the world, helping make sense of their current situations and providing a path toward greater success. In recent years, additional business entities under the MedServ name have been created to meet evolving client needs.

With a doctorate degree in Organizational Psychology, Dr. Fitch is in demand as an author and speaker. He is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at The George Washington University, and previously held academic appointments at the University of Kansas and Royal Roads University (Canada).  Dr. Fitch has written and spoken extensively about EMS, contributing hundreds of articles and seminars to enhance the profession. He was the lead author for the highly regarded textbook Beyond the Street: A Handbook for EMS Leadership and Management and was the editor of Prehospital Care Administration, the popular collection of essays and case studies currently in its second edition. In addition, Dr. Fitch serves as President of the Board of Directors for a municipal fire district in suburban Kansas City and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He serves on the Editorial Board of JEMS, Journal of Emergency Medical Services, and holds the CHC designation from the American Association of Healthcare Consultants.