The author was being a total dick in that other story so his conclusion was incorrect.
At the very least its very impolite to hang around and gaggle at a police investigation or someone getting aid from the EMS. At that point you are only getting in the way.
I've never personally gotten assistance from a US Embassy but I know people who have and they were genuinely helpful.
Good reading material, but I'm probably going to call the embassy (and 911).