DC’s medical director announces his departure. Dr. James Augustine cites health reasons for his resignation.
Dr. James Augustine has announced his resignation as medical director for the DC Fire & EMS Department after 17-months working for the department. Dr. Augustine is citing health and wellness reasons for his departure. Sources tell STATter911.com the climate in the DC area is not beneficial to a medical condition afflicting Dr. Augustine.
James Augustine was hand picked by Chief Dennis Rubin. The men worked together closely when Rubin was fire chief in Atlanta, Georgia.
In a press release announcing the departure, Chief Dennis Rubin is quoted as saying, “The citizens of the District have directly benefited from the work of Dr. Augustine. Our world class EMS system is testimony to his leadership and innovation. He is the real deal. He will be missed.”
Augustine joined the department in July, 2008 and became acting director a month later when Dr. Michael Williams suddenly resigned. Dr. Augustine was officially confirmed by the City Council one-year-ago.
The resignation of Dr. Augustine is another set back for Chief Rubin’s efforts to change the culture of EMS in the District of Columbia. Two weeks ago, the EMS training director and administrator were let go by Dr. Augustine. This is at least the third change in leadership in EMS training since Chief Rubin took over the department in April, 2007.
According to the press release, Chief Rubin believes that Augustine “has formed a lasting foundation for which we can build our future course”. Dr. Augustine is expected to leave at the end of the year.
Read DC Fire & EMS Department press release and background on Dr. Augustine
