Mattia Vassalli: from the desire to help to professionalism in pre-hospital emergency care
- sureVIVE
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
Work in emergency rescue is built on readiness, expertise and the ability to face situations that can change from one moment to the next. The story of Mattia Vassalli, today a professional at the Mendrisiotto Ambulance Service, shows how a vocation can arise unexpectedly and grow into a career.
A life between base and interventions
Mattia Vassalli has been part of SAM as a professional since 2018, after starting as a volunteer in 2011. His daily routine takes place mainly at the base, with shifts of 8 or 12 hours, always ready to depart as soon as an alarm is received. Each mission begins with the acceptance of the call by one of the two crew members, while the other takes the driver’s seat to quickly reach the scene.
During the journey, the rescuers discuss possible strategies based on the information received. This allows them to arrive well prepared, especially when trauma or delicate clinical situations are suspected.
Protocols, expertise and rapid decisions
Every intervention is a balance between protocols and the ability to assess the real situation. Mattia Vassalli highlights the role of delegated medical acts, clinical tools that are regularly updated according to international guidelines and cantonal medical directives. Thanks to these guidelines, the team can act quickly, administer medication when necessary and choose the hospital best suited to the patient.
The emotional challenges of the job
Alongside technical skills, the role of a rescuer requires great emotional strength. Mattia Vassalli explains that some situations are particularly challenging: dealing with family members during critical moments, pediatric missions and, above all, experiences that leave a lasting mark.
He especially recalls one intervention he will never forget:
“The first resuscitation attempt… on an eight-year-old pediatric patient… that is something I will probably remember for the rest of my life.”
These are tough moments that are part of the profession and often contribute to personal and professional growth.
A path that began almost by chance
Mattia Vassalli’s journey is not linear. After school, he begins training as an automation technician, far removed from the healthcare world. At the same time, he joins emergency services as a volunteer, gradually moving closer to a different field.
He later works in a nursing home, initially out of necessity, but it is there that a genuine interest in care emerges. He completes training as a healthcare assistant, continues to nursing school and, thanks to his volunteer experience, gains access to training as a professional paramedic. From that point on, he has never stopped.
Beyond interventions: data, analysis and innovation
In addition to his operational role, Mattia Vassalli is also responsible for data analysis in the clinical area. This responsibility combines his interest in information technology with the growing need for data to improve procedures, safety and service quality.
He describes this aspect of his work as follows:
“I am responsible for data analysis… partly because I enjoy working with computers… and partly because of my background.”
With the launch of a new project in the research and development area, his contribution will expand even further.
A professional shaped by experience and the will to keep moving forward
The story of Mattia Vassalli shows that there is no single path to a profession. His journey is made up of attempts, changes of direction, a passion discovered in the field and continuous growth. Today, he is a professional paramedic who combines clinical expertise, operational skills and an interest in innovation.
An example of how pre-hospital emergency care is a profession built as much on technical competence as on humanity.
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