Facts & Fallacies
MYTH: In the case of a serious medical emergency, it’s better to call 911.
FACT: GERMS ambulances hold the same certification level as BLS units dispatched by 911, and because they
service a smaller area than DC Fire & EMS, their response time is much more rapid. Every member of
GERMS holds valid national certification as an Emergency Medical Technician – Basic.
MYTH: You will magically remember the number to call GERMS when you need it.
FACT: You won’t. No one plans to call GERMS until they actually need to, so be prepared and plug the number into your
phone. (202) 687-HELP (4357).
MYTH: Calling GERMS is expensive.
FACT: There are no charges for services rendered by GERMS. On average, ambulances dispatched through 911 will
charge from $400-$800 for transportation to the hospital, but transport and all services provided by GERMS
are free.
MYTH: Everyone will know if you call GERMS.
FACT: GERMS members will never disclose any information concerning patient identity or medical condition due to
patient confidentiality laws.
MYTH: GERMS only responds to students on campus.
FACT: Anyone can call GERMS whether or not they are affiliated with the university. In addition to the Georgetown
campus, GERMS responds to the neighborhoods of West Georgetown, Burleith, and Foxhall. There are typically 20-30
calls per year from Georgetown residents and businesses.
MYTH: Alcohol-related emergencies are the most common type of call.
FACT: In recent years, less than 9% of GERMS calls are for severe alcohol intoxication.
In the past year, GERMS has received patients suffering from cardiac arrest, respiratory distress,
injuries sustained from motor vehicle collisions, severe allergic reactions, diabetic emergencies,
behavioral emergencies, large falls, and assaults. The most common type of calls are sports-related
injuries.
MYTH: Most of GERMs members are pre-med.
FACT: Only about half of members have aspirations in the medical field. The current Vice President is actually an Operations and Information Management major in the MSB.
In the past few years, graduates have gone on to Georgetown and NYU law schools, Wall Street financial firms, and other top occupations.
MYTH: GERMS are paid.
FACT: All members of GERMS work entirely as volunteers.
For additional questions, contact the Director of Public Relations, Chris Santostephano.
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