Amanda Riordan serves as the Vice President of Membership of the American Ambulance Association. She joined AAA as Director of Membership in May of 2015. She has 15+ years of progressive experience in non-profit operations, membership development, marketing, operations, and credentialing.
The American Ambulance Association (AAA) is pleased to announce the release of its new state-level whitepaper, Ground Ambulance Balance Billing: Overview and Recommendations. Developed by a collaborative team of industry experts, this comprehensive resource provides an in-depth examination of the complex regulatory landscape surrounding ground ambulance billing and the ongoing challenges of keeping consumers out of the middle of payment disputes. The whitepaper offers an overview of existing state laws, gaps in current policy, and pragmatic recommendations—including standardized payment methods and consumer protections—that can inform both policymakers and EMS providers nationwide.
By sharing promising practices from around the country and highlighting the recent work of the Ground Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee, Ground Ambulance Balance Billing: Overview and Recommendations underscores the AAA’s commitment to safeguarding patients while supporting fair, sustainable reimbursement for ambulance services. We encourage all EMS stakeholders, insurers, and legislators to review this important paper and join us in shaping policies that protect patients and ensure the ongoing availability of these vital, life-saving services.
Share your insights with fellow EMS leaders surrounded by the charm and excitement of Lexington’s iconic hospitality featuring world-class dining, bourbon, and horseracing. Speaker proposal deadline extended to January 31!
2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show Call for Presentations
Thank you for your interest in speaking at the AAA Annual Conference and Trade Show.
Annual Conference & Trade Show
Sunday, June 22–Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Central Bank Center
Lexington, Kentucky
The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2025. Applicants may submit up to three proposals. Audience involvement is highly encouraged.
Please be advised that participation as a presenter is strictly on a voluntary basis. Up to two speakers per selected session will receive complimentary registration to the conference. However, AAA is unable to pay speaker fees or travel and lodging expenses. Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise with your peers!
EMS Heroes Honored in Washington, DC as 2024 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—This week, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) recognized extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 143 individuals from across the United States were honored as the 2024 Stars at the November 11–13 event.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare safety net. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars received medallions and awards in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, met with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services. In recognition of Veterans Day on November 11, special recognition was afforded to Stars with a military or reserves background.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work around-the-clock to deliver out-of-hospital care when it is needed most.” He continued, “We honor this year’s Stars of Life and thank them for their tireless service to local communities across the nation.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2024 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—This November, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 143 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2024 Stars at the November 11–13 event.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare safety net. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and awards in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services. In recognition of Veterans Day on November 11, special recognition will be afforded to Stars with a military or reserves background.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work around-the-clock to deliver out-of-hospital care when it is needed most.” He continued, “We honor this year’s Stars of Life and thank them for their tireless service to local communities across the nation.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill hotel on November 12, 2024 from 6:30–8:30pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.
# # #
About The American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
Submissions Due September 20 | Submit to ariordan@ambulance.org | Notification of Award on October 15
Overview
The American Ambulance Association (AAA) invites proposals from qualified strategic planning consultants to facilitate the development of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan. The strategic plan will guide AAA’s initiatives from 2025 to 2030, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission: “Caring for People—First.”
AAA is dedicated to safeguarding the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. Our goal is to support and sustain our members as they deliver high-quality, on-demand healthcare to their communities. We are seeking a consultant who can help us refine our strategic vision, address current and future challenges, and enhance our capacity to serve the EMS community.
Scope of Services
The selected consultant will be expected to:
Assessment and Engagement:
Collaborate with AAA’s leadership, staff, and members to understand the organization’s mission, vision, values, and current strategic position.
Conduct interviews, surveys, and workshops to gather input from key stakeholders, including AAA members, board members, customers, regulators, and legislative staff.
Perform a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) or similar exercise to identify the critical areas of focus for the organization.
Strategic Planning Process:
Facilitate a 2-day board strategic planning workshop in January 2025 at a date and location to be determined. The consultant should include a description of their process for collecting information in advance of the workshop, a sample agenda for the workshop, a description of the style and techniques used during facilitation, and the expected date of completion for the final strategic plan.
Develop a comprehensive strategic planning framework that includes clear goals, objectives, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Assist AAA in identifying Critical Success Factors, Objectives, Tactics, Metrics, and the Responsible Party (or similar) for each element of the strategic plan.
Develop a plan to build buy-in from both AAA leaders and the general membership to ensure widespread support and successful implementation of the strategic plan.
Topics to be discussed during the strategic planning process include, but are not limited to:
The future of EMS providers with a sole focus on healthcare.
Positioning AAA as a national leader in healthcare policy.
Enhancing the perception of AAA members and the care they provide by the public and legislators.
Increasing member engagement and delivering meaningful, timely benefits to members.
Growing membership and event revenue.
Building revenue for the association to ensure ongoing financial viability.
Growing and engaging the next generation of mobile healthcare talent in the association and EMS advocacy.
Structure and composition of the AAA Board and committees to support the strategic plan.
Provide regular updates and progress reports to the AAA strategic planning team.
Plan Development:
Draft the strategic plan, incorporating feedback from AAA leadership and members.
Ensure the plan includes actionable strategies, timelines, and resource allocation guidelines to achieve the outlined goals.
Include a plan for building buy-in from AAA leaders and the general membership as part of the overall strategic plan.
Present a final strategic plan to the AAA Board by June 2025 for approval, including a roadmap for implementation and monitoring progress.
Implementation Support:
Offer recommendations for aligning AAA’s resources, operations, and governance structures with the strategic plan.
Provide guidance on communication strategies to ensure that the plan is understood and embraced by all stakeholders.
Include options for continued engagement and support through the first year of implementation.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include the following:
Cover Sheet:
Firm name, contact person, title of contact person, email address, phone number, and website.
Consultant Profile:
A brief description of the consultant or firm, including an overview of experience relevant to strategic planning, particularly in the nonprofit or healthcare sectors.
Organizational structure and bios of key team members who will work on the project.
Approach and Methodology:
A detailed description of the proposed approach to the strategic planning process, including how you will engage stakeholders, conduct assessments, and develop the strategic plan.
An outline of how you will assist AAA in identifying Critical Success Factors, Objectives, Tactics, Metrics, and the Responsible Party for each element of the plan.
A description of your process for collecting information in advance of the 2-day strategic planning workshop, a sample agenda for the workshop, and the expected date of completion for the final strategic plan.
A timeline of key milestones and deliverables.
Experience and References:
Examples of previous strategic planning projects completed for similar organizations, including samples of past work and two references that can speak to your work’s quality and impact.
Budget:
A comprehensive budget proposal, including consultant fees, travel expenses, and any other costs associated with the project. There is not a predetermined maximum cost for this project.
Additional Support:
An outline of any ongoing support or follow-up services that can be provided after the strategic plan is developed.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following scoring rubric:
Max Points
Description
15
Understanding of AAA’s Mission and Needs: Demonstrated understanding of AAA’s challenges, opportunities, and strategic objectives.
10
Expertise in Healthcare Landscape: Knowledge of and experience working with healthcare leaders and entities, as well as a general knowledge of healthcare advocacy and policymaking.
20
Experience and Qualifications: Relevant experience in strategic planning for nonprofits or associations.
20
Approach and Methodology: The soundness and feasibility of the proposed approach to the strategic planning process.
10
Workshop Facilitation: The consultant’s approach to facilitating the 2-day strategic planning workshop, including pre-workshop information collection and a sample agenda.
5
Building Buy-In: The effectiveness of the proposed plan to build buy-in from AAA leaders and the general membership.
10
Budget: A clear, realistic budget that aligns with the scope of work.
10
References: Positive feedback from previous clients on similar projects.
TOTAL: Up to 100 Possible Points
Submission Instructions
Proposals must be submitted electronically by September 20, 2024, 5:00 PM ET, to Amanda Riordan at ariordan@ambulance.org.
AAA looks forward to collaborating with a strategic planning consultant who shares our commitment to advancing the field of mobile healthcare. We appreciate your interest in supporting our mission to “Care for People—First.”
Share your insights with fellow EMS leaders surrounded by the charm and excitement of Lexington’s iconic hospitality featuring world-class dining, bourbon, and horseracing.
2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show Call for Presentations
Thank you for your interest in speaking at the AAA Annual Conference and Trade Show.
Annual Conference & Trade Show
Sunday, June 22–Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Central Bank Center
Lexington, Kentucky
The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2025. Applicants may submit up to three proposals. Audience involvement is highly encouraged.
Please be advised that participation as a presenter is strictly on a voluntary basis. Up to two speakers per selected session will receive complimentary registration to the conference. However, AAA is unable to pay speaker fees or travel and lodging expenses. Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise with your peers!
When I was little, I always thought it was cool that ambulances saved people, but it never occurred to me that there were actual people in the ambulance. When I got a little older and learned about EMS, I obtained my EMT certification as soon as I could at age 16.
What do you love about working in EMS?
It’s something new every day! I get to meet some amazing people. Colleagues quickly become friends.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Do this job because it calls to you. Don’t come into EMS expecting or looking for accolades. It will humble you very quickly. Love your job and do it well. Learn something new every day, and when you think you know everything, it’s time for a new job!
Anything else you’d like to say?
I love this job! It’s demanding, but rewarding. I love being a representation and example of the amazing things that black women can do! Black girl magic is real!
2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show Call for Presentations
Thank you for your interest in speaking at the AAA Annual Conference and Trade Show.
Annual Conference & Trade Show
Sunday, June 22–Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Central Bank Center
Lexington, Kentucky
The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2025. Applicants may submit up to three proposals. Audience involvement is highly encouraged.
Please be advised that participation as a presenter is strictly on a voluntary basis. Up to two speakers per selected session will receive complimentary registration to the conference. However, AAA is unable to pay speaker fees or travel and lodging expenses. Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise with your peers!
Meet Dave Raymond, a dedicated firefighter EMT, and his wife, Kelly, who has been on a courageous four-year quest to find a kidney donor. In December 2023, a ray of hope shone through when Kelly’s uncle, though not a match for her, selflessly donated a kidney on her behalf through the National Kidney Registry’s standard voucher program. While Kelly is still waiting for the perfect match, they are one significant step closer, and Dave and Kelly are feeling blessed by this development.
A Struggle Behind the Scenes
However, behind this hopeful story lies a financial crisis. Despite Dave’s tireless efforts, working multiple jobs, having private medical insurance and Medicare for Kelly, the overwhelming burden of unpaid co-pays and uncovered balances has pushed the Raymond family into a dire financial situation. They now face the imminent threat of losing their home and only vehicle, and Kelly’s health is further compromised as they are unable to schedule specialist appointments due to unpaid balances.
“Dave is working four jobs. We have both private health insurance and Medicare, and the medical bills still keep piling up. I’m on daily dialysis and can’t work. There are no more hours left in the day for Dave to work. I am worried he will lose his health and we’ll lose our home. The stress is overwhelming.” – Kelly Raymond
The Raymond Family’s Sacrifice
Dave and his son, Christopher, share a profound commitment to saving lives as firefighter EMTs. Yet, the harsh reality is that they are unable to save Kelly on their own. The burden of mounting bills has forced them to turn to their community, and their fire service/EMS family for support.
Your Chance to Make a Difference
Now is the time for us to rally together and support these everyday heroes who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Your contribution will not only ease the financial strain on the Raymond family but also allow them to focus on what matters most – Kelly’s health and well-being. Your donation can be the lifeline this family desperately needs.
Kelly’s Medical History of Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Kelly has struggled with medical issues all her life. She has Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes which created many health complications. But one by one, Kelly has overcome and moved on, keeping an incredibly optimistic outlook. In 2013 she lost her leg to diabetes but has adapted very well. In 2020 her kidneys started shutting down rapidly and it was determined that she would need a kidney transplant to live. In the meantime, Kelly is doing dialysis 7 days a week to keep going. It is difficult, but we are grateful that dialysis buys her some time while we search for a donor. Many people have stepped up for Kelly and all but one has been found medically ineligible to donate. Unfortunatley the one approved donor had a major family crisis that put kidney donation on hold indefinitely. With the National Kidney Registry standard voucher, Kelly is now waiting patiently to be matched with a living kidney donor, which will likely happen within the year.
Will you send the Raymond Family a lifeline?
Good news…
Kelly is waiting to be matched with a living kidney donor!
100% of your donation will go to the Raymond family. EMS Gives Life is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
The First Responder Network Authority will be launching the next phase of the FirstNet network in partnership with its network contractor, AT&T. The webcast will unveil major upgrades planned for FirstNet, driven by public safety’s needs.
Register below for the webcast, and join us on February 13 to hear from public safety officials and leaders from the FirstNet Authority and AT&T as they announce enhancements planned for FirstNet.
The American Ambulance Association (AAA) seeks proposals from qualified consulting firms to provide strategic services in the field of ambulance and emergency medical services. The selected firm will work collaboratively with the Association to identify opportunities, analyze state landscapes, develop policy recommendations, and manage the project efficiently.
About the American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first. AAA’s 1500+ organizational members serve cities and counties in all 50 states.
Scope of Services
The consulting firm shall provide the following services:
Planning and Strategy Session: Convene a strategy session with key AAA leaders to prioritize states for research and opportunity development.
State Landscape Research and Analysis: Conduct comprehensive research and analysis for no fewer than ten states, focusing on:
State statutes, regulations, and Medicaid policies for ambulance services.
Medicaid fee schedules for ambulance services.
State policies on balance billing and treatment in place.
Initiatives addressing ambulance workforce shortage, including the use of grants and ARPA funds, with a particular focus on availability or potential availability for non-governmental EMS providers.
Policy Recommendation Development: Collaborate with AAA to develop in-depth state-level policy recommendations on the topics of EMS workforce recruitment and retention, balance billing, and treatment in place.
Whitepaper Development: Write, edit, and publish no fewer than three in-depth whitepapers focused on state-level EMS recruitment and retention, balance billing, and treatment in place policy. The whitepapers should be suitable for use by EMS providers and state level legislators and regulators seeking to identify state EMS policy best practices.
Project Management & Communication: Provide robust project management, including regular client meetings to review goals and progress during the development of policy recommendations and whitepapers. Facilitate regular coordination and progress review calls and monthly written updates.
All deliverables should be received in calendar year 2024.
Fees and Expenses
Proposals must include a detailed fee structure, including hourly rates for various personnel and any applicable prorated fees. A fixed total or capped amount is strongly preferred over uncapped “time and expenses” billing.
Submission Guidelines
Proposals should be submitted by January 31, 2024 to info@ambulance.org with the subject line “State EMS Whitepaper Proposal.” Proposals should include a detailed approach to the scope of services, a proposed timeline for deliverable development, detailed qualifications of the team, and a clear fee structure. Submitters should include examples of past work of similar scope in the broader healthcare field.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the firm’s experience, approach to the project, team qualifications, and cost-effectiveness. Notification will be delivered by February 29, 2024.
I’ve always loved science and medicine. And after losing one of my brothers in a car accident I knew there were no words to express my appreciation for the Paramedics and hospital staff that worked on him. I wanted to pay it forward and be there for people the way the Paramedics were there for my brother.
I know I have no control over the outcomes of the people I care for, but I can show up for my community and try to help in people’s worst moments like so many did for my brother and family.
What do you love about working in EMS?
There is never a day in EMS that is the same as another. There is always more to learn and more to do. It is a very raw, intimate, and humbling experience to be able to meet so many different people in different situations and come together as a team to try and help. This job makes me grateful for my blessings every day.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Make sure you take time for your hobbies and self-care. A work-life balance is crucial. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you have someone you can talk to on the hard days. I have yet to find any other role that compares to this one. This career can be heart-wrenching but it can also be absolutely exhilarating and incredible and not once have I ever felt like it wasn’t worth it.
I had a good friend ask me if I wanted to work on an ambulance with her. I said yes and she said ok you gotta take this class. So I enrolled in an EMT class and fell in love with it from the first day.
What do you love about working in EMS?
I love being able to help people. I love the team environment and the amazing people I get to work with every day. It’s so rewarding to be a part of a team that really makes a difference in the communities we serve.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Do it! I absolutely love coming to work each shift. Work hard and ask all the questions you can in your EMT classes and during your probationary time on the ambulance. It’s the best job in the world!
I started as a volunteer firefighter, just like many other 18-year-old first responders. I was immediately attracted to the fast pace of the work environment and the sense of fulfillment that came along with EMS.
What do you love about working in EMS?
Every work day presents something different. Today, as an EMS leader, I get to influence up-and-coming providers and contribute to the foundation of their success as both professionals and as people.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
EMS is a very dynamic profession. With change comes opportunities for growth and development. Learn and grow every day. You will get out of your career exactly what you put into it.
Being an EMT or Paramedic is fun, challenging, and rewarding all in one. Truly, EMS is one of the absolute best professions.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Countless lives have been saved by the rapid interventions that are being performed in pre-hospital settings. Pre-hospital providers are the safety net of their communities nationwide. Doctors don’t make house calls anymore, but EMTs and Paramedics make them every single day.
EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—Next week, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at a prestigious event November 6–8.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.
In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.
# # #
About The American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—This November, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at the November 6–8 event.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.
In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.
# # #
About The American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
I have always been interested in helping others and fascinated by science. I followed a different career path and studied Biodiversity and Conservation Conservation Biology. After working as an Environmental Educator Educator, Volunteer Coordinator, and becoming a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator, I was approached by a member of my local volunteer ambulance agency. I started volunteering and quickly became an EMT and officer. The more involved I became the more I fell in love with EMS.
What do you love about working in EMS?
What I love about EMS is that there is always something new to learn, always a new situation. I like meeting new people and being able to make an immediate difference.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Ask questions. Make the most of every situation, including interfacility transfers. Go with your gut feelings.
Share your insights with fellow EMS leaders surrounded by the charm and excitement of Lexington’s iconic hospitality featuring world-class dining, bourbon, and horseracing. Speaker proposal deadline extended to January 31!
Tamara Annette Robinson Moss
Will you send the Raymond Family a lifeline?
Michele Bracken
Randy Murry
Brett Zingarelli