Fresno lost a giant with the death of Dr. Gene Carsen, hailed as the “father” of emergency medical services.
Dr. Carsen died suddenly in his sleep on Saturday, March 4, according to family friends.
Until his death, he led a busy life and was often seen taking morning walks with his wife, Pam, in his northwest Fresno neighborhood. His hobbies included sailing, kayaking, skiing, woodworking, reading and traveling.
A pioneer in emergency medicine
Dr. Cullen was the director of the UCSF Fresno Emergency Program for nearly 23 years, for which the university’s Gene W. Kallsen, MD, Endowed Chair in Emergency Medicine is named.
“With over 300 alumni, 12 residents and 40 faculty members a year, Dr. Kallsen has created a special place here,” said former Emergency Medical Director Dr. Jim Comes. .
“Jean was a wonderful human being and a doctor. We will miss him.” makes it very good.”
Dr. Carsen chaired the first statewide organization of EMS Directors and helped develop the original EMS policies and protocols. Many of these form the basis of today’s guidelines. He also led efforts to improve ambulance response times in Fresno County.
Carlsen once said of a desperate emergency room-trained resident at a Community Regional Medical Center: Obviously, by definition they are green as grass. They are the heroes of my heart when they walk out the door four years after him. ”
Watch: Healthcare Hero Dr. Gene Carsen
early life
Dr. Carsen served on the board of the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust. his biography Describes his childhood and early interest in medicine.
Dr. Carsen has enjoyed sailing trips to the British Virgin Islands, Greek Islands, SF Bay, Tahiti and Puget Sound. (San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust)
“Gene grew up raising cows, pigs, sheep, horses and chickens in rural Minnesota. Give birth to lambs, calves and piglets and prevent the sow from lying on the piglets.
“Medical school showed Gene that there are more diseases and afflictions than can be eradicated. But the opportunities are everywhere.”
Dr. Carsen graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1969 and graduated from the university’s medical school in 1972. He came to Fresno in 1977 after completing an internship at the Harbourview Medical Center at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, UCSF where he completed his training at Fresno. 1979.
That same year, the American Board of Emergency Medicine was approved, preparing Dr. Kallsen to play a pivotal role in his profession throughout his career.
“Standing on the shoulders of Doc Karsen”
When Dr. Carsen worked his last shift on Dec. 28, 2018, Rep. Jim Costa presented him with a congressional resolution.
“We stand on the shoulders of leaders like Doc Carsen,” Costa said.
Dr. Carlsen is survived by his wife, Pam Carlsen. his daughter Leslie Williams and his husband John. his daughter Laura Boyd and his husband Jeff. and five grandchildren.
A gift in honor of Dr. Carlsen can be given to Jean W. Carlsen, M.D., Ph.D., Endowed Chair of Emergency Medicine. http://makegift.ucsf.edu/kallsen
