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Author: Amanda Riordan

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.

EMS Gives Life | EMT Dave and Wife Kelly Need Your Help

Dave and Kelly’s Inspiring Journey

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.

Donate to the Raymonds

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!

The need…

The Raymond family’s financial situation is dire!

We Need to Raise $20,000

  • $5,000 will avoid repossession of their car
  • $10,000 will remove the risk of home foreclosure
  • $5,000 will cover unpaid medical bills

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.

Webcast | Evolving FirstNet for America’s First Responders

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024 | 10:30 a.m. ET

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.

Register

RFP | State EMS Policy Whitepaper & Strategic Consulting

Request for Proposal

State EMS Policy Whitepaper Development & Strategic Consulting Services

Download PDF

Overview and Objectives

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.

 

 

EMS Profiles | Meet Maryam Boyd

Maryam Boyd
Paramedic Crew Chief
Mecklenburg EMS Agency (Medic 911)
Charlotte, NC

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How did you come to be in EMS?

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.

Anything else you’d like to say?

Regardless of the outcome, what you do matters.

 

EMS Profiles | Meet Michele Bracken

Michele Bracken
Training Officer
Wendover Ambulance
West Wendover, NV

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How did you come to be in EMS?

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!

EMS Profiles | Meet Randy Murry

Randy Murry
Director of Mississippi Operations
Pafford Medical Services
Clarksdale, MS
Randy Murry is a 2023 EMSNext honoree.

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How did you come to be in EMS?

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.

 

 

Release | EMS Heroes Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amanda Riordan
703-615-4492
ariordan@ambulance.org

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:

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.

Release | EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amanda Riordan
703-615-4492
ariordan@ambulance.org

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:

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 Profiles | Meet Elissa Schilmeister

Elissa Schilmeister
Paramedic
Westchester EMS
Chappaqua, New York

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How did you come to be in EMS?

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.

EMS Profiles | Meet Brett Zingarelli

Brett Zingarelli
Lieutenant
Saint Francis EMS
Wilmington, Delaware

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How did you come to be in EMS?

My grandfather passed away from cancer when I was 12 and I wanted to find a way to help people. EMS was the first way I found to help at a young age.

What do you love about working in EMS?

Every day is different. No matter what happens I know that I’ve affected someone’s life for the better when the shift is over.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

There is no other feeling in this world like helping other people. If you come in and do your best every day is rewarding.

Anything else you’d like to say?

There is a place for everyone in EMS. Follow your passions and you will find the career rewarding.

EMS Profiles | Meet Rosetta Scott

Rosetta Scott, NREMT
Emergency Medical Technician
Saint Francis Hospital EMS
Wilmington, Delaware

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How did you come to be in EMS?

My father suffered a heart attack at home and as I waited for 911, it felt like forever. I decided I never again wanted to be without the knowledge of how to help others.

What do you like about working in EMS?

I love the opportunity to interact with diversity in our communities. It is an honor to help people of various populations.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

My advice to future EMS professionals is to be easy with yourself and continue to ask questions. Never stop learning, even after you earn your certification.

EMS Profiles | Meet Jarlicia Islandriana Scott

Jarlicia Islandriana Scott
Paramedic
Pafford Emergency Medical Services
Clarksdale, MS

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How did you come to be in EMS?

I found myself searching for a career in the healthcare field and discovered a local EMT training program. I didn’t know much about EMS at the time I applied. As I got deeper into it, I became more and more interested.  I enrolled in the Paramedic program to further my career and continue my education.

What do you love about working in EMS?

What I love about working in EMS is the thrill and the excitement—the whole experience. I love the fact that I can tell people outside of the profession that I’m a Paramedic.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

Treat each and every patient as if they were your family member.

Anything else you’d like to say?

EMS is a fun and challenging career. It has its moments but every call makes you greater. My primary goal is to provide patients with excellent pre-hospital care.

EMS Profiles | Meet Jameson Fernandez

Jameson Fernandez
Emergency Medical Technician
Cataldo Ambulance
Somerville, Massachusetts

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How did you come to be in EMS?

The light and sirens going by first caught my attention as a young child. That love only grew as I got older. I would watch and ask for all things that had to do with first responding. I loved it all, and imagined serving as police, fire or EMS when I got older. Over time during these growing years I eliminated fire and law enforcement as just not for me. EMS was the winner across the board.

I found myself at the age where I asked, ‘Self, what do you want to do?’ and, ‘What is the career of my dreams?’

The answer was EMS.

What do you love about working in EMS?

What I love about EMS is there is literally never a dull moment! Nothing day is the same, no call will ever be the same. EMS and standing orders are always evolving and trending up. We are always there when you need us.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

My advice is to go for it! Buckle up and enjoy one of the most rewarding career paths that can simply not be duplicated in other professions.

I recommend EMS for the skillset development. It hits such a wide variety of life lessons in just one shift. As an EMT, you’ll see the do’s and don’ts to life as a whole, and it gives you the ability to help people from the community.

You are continually educated and truly the sky is the limit in emergency medical services. Being an EMT opens so many doors in so many directions in the medical field. You can start EMS like me from fleet maintenance, where I learned about the vehicles, to a chair car, to communications and dispatch, to the road as an emergency first responder, and then on to an EMT certification. The future is full of next steps, and I’ve already done a lot. You can even get your advanced EMT, then your Paramedic then do a bridge program and go into nursing. The possibilities are endless and attainable.

Anything else you’d like to say?

EMS is the way to go. Get started!

PBS NewsHour | The No Surprises Act left out ground ambulances. Here’s what’s happening now

 

Read the full article

2023 Stars of Life Nominations Are OPEN!

Honor YOUR Stars in Washington, DC

The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.

Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.

Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.

Nominate a Star of Life
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023
Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DCNominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.

Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?

All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:

  • State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
  • Employee of the year
  • On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
  • Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
  • Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
  • Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission

Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.

2023 Registration Rates

Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.

  • Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.  No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Recognize Women Living Legends

Vanguards honor women leaders with 35+ years of extraordinary service to mobile healthcare.Nominate a Vanguard!››
Download 2023 Photo Slide PDF››

Know a Rising Advocacy Leader?

Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.

Learn More››

Facebook
Twitter
Link
LinkedIn
Copyright © 2023 American Ambulance Association, All rights reserved.

2023 Stars of Life Nominations Are OPEN!

Honor YOUR Stars in Washington, DC

The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.

Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.

Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.

Nominate a Star of Life
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023
Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DC

Nominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.

Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?

All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:

  • State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
  • Employee of the year
  • On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
  • Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
  • Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
  • Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission

Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.

2023 Registration Rates

Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.

  • Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.  No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Recognize Women Living Legends

Vanguards honor women leaders with 35+ years of extraordinary service to mobile healthcare.Nominate a Vanguard!››
Download 2023 Photo Slide PDF››

Know a Rising Advocacy Leader?

Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.

Learn More››

Facebook
Twitter
Link
LinkedIn
Copyright © 2023 American Ambulance Association, All rights reserved.

2024 EMSNext Nominations Now Open!

EMSNext Nominations Due January 1, 2024!

Know a wonderful rising leader you’d like to recognize as the future of EMS? Nominations are open for EMSNext (formerly Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40)!

Selection Process & Criteria

2023 EMSNext Honorees

Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in the nomination form below. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date and future promise.

Please note that nominees must be under 40 in the year of nomination OR from a diverse background. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.

EMSNext Program Description

EMSNext is a recognition and development program of the American Ambulance Association. The goal of this program is to recognize up-and-coming leaders within EMS and support them in building their networks and leadership skills and encouraging them to get involved in the next level of EMS leadership. This program is a way for organizations to fully engage their rising leaders through company-sponsored travel and participation in additional learning and networking events throughout the year. Program participation includes:

    • Complimentary conference registration for the 2024 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow (April 22-24 in Nashville, Tennessee)
    • Recognition of the EMSNext recipients during the Conference
    • Mentor pairing and additional professional development opportunities
    • Encouraged to attend AAA Board Meetings throughout the year
    • Encouraged to attend another AAA event with our leaders in 2024

AAA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Updated in August 2022

Caring for People—Together.
The American Ambulance Association board and its members are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to every patient regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and/or on the basis of differing ability. We dedicate time, thought, and resources to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the Emergency Medical Services workforce and leadership. Together, we save and sustain the lives of community members.

2024 Vanguard Nominations Open Through January 1

Nominations Are Due January 1, 2024!

Recognize woman leaders with at least 35 years of service in EMS! Nominations are open for the second annual American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards! The Vanguards honor those who blazed the trail for fellow women EMS professionals.

The Vanguards are presented in collaboration with our colleagues from Women in Emergency Services (WiES), a newly-founded organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women’s careers in the emergency services industry through empowerment, networking, mentorship, and education.

2023 American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards

Selection Process & Criteria

To submit a 2024 Vanguard nomination, please complete the form below before January 1, 2024.

Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in their nomination form. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date.

Please note that nominees must be women with 35+ years of service in the EMS industry. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.

Recognition

Honorees will be recognized at the American Ambulance Association President’s Reception award ceremony, and will be recognized on the AAA and WiEMS websites and social media platforms. Winners will also receive complimentary registration to the AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show.

2024 AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show
Gaylord Opryland
April 22–24, 2024
Nashville, TN

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