Reactivity vs Productivity

Reactivity vs. Productivity: Two Words That Can Change the Outcome

Two words—reactivity and productivity—can determine the outcome of critical events. At Eagle Med Solutions, our guiding phrase is “Change the Outcome.” It is more than a slogan; it is the foundation of our training and operational philosophy.

Globally, we continue to see an increase in active-shooter incidents and mass-casualty events—not only involving firearms, but also knives, vehicles, and other readily available means. Despite this reality, too many companies, schools, and agencies remain reactive rather than productive in their preparedness.

How often have we heard:

• “It won’t happen here.”

• “We’re a peaceful community.”

Unfortunately, those assumptions no longer align with the world we live in.

When I first began teaching CPR and First Aid, most of my students were educators—training that was once required to maintain employment. Over time, many of those requirements disappeared. Meanwhile, school-related violence has continued to increase.

Preparedness cannot be limited to normal school hours or to times when a School Resource Officer or nurse is present. The recent event at Brown University occurred after hours—proving once again that emergencies do not follow schedules.

Preparedness must extend beyond policies and plans. It requires capability.

We need to have honest discussions about being productive, not merely reactive. Medical training should be available to anyone willing to learn. I have long believed that everyone benefits from some level of medical education.

Ask the hard questions:

• How quickly can care be rendered in your office or school?

• Where is the nearest medical kit—and what’s in it?

• Does your community have an active response team?

• Are tactical or operational medics available, and how long until they arrive?

In Kenya, I helped develop the Advanced Care Practitioner Program based on multiple after-action reports and direct input from responders and victims. The goal was simple: empower officers to initiate lifesaving care immediately after controlling the threat. The program is still growing, but it is working. Graduates are applying their skills in real situations and passing that knowledge on to others—exactly as intended.

This is what productive preparedness looks like.

Let’s continue these conversations. Let’s move from complacency to capability. From reaction to readiness. And most importantly, let’s ensure we are doing everything possible to change the outcome—before the next incident forces us to ask “What if?”