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2024 AAA Legislative Awards

Written by Meghan Winesett on . Posted in Awards, Legislative, Legislative Awards, News, Press, Stars of Life.

The American Ambulance Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 AAA Legislative Awards. Each Member of Congress is being recognized for their strong advocacy for emergency medical services and their ongoing dedication to ambulance services across the United States. In addition to our two Legislator of the Year Awards and 25 Legislative Recognition Awards, the American Ambulance Association has named their first-ever EMS Legacy Award Winner. This award is reserved for a Members of Congress who made a substantial impact on the EMS industry during their tenure in the U.S. Congress.

2024 EMS Legacy Award

Senator Debbie Stabenow (MI)

2024 AAA Legislators of the Year

Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-3)
Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-1)

2024 AAA Legislative Recognition Award Recipients

Senators

  • Senator Jon Tester (MT)
  • Senator Katherine Cortez Masto (NV)
  • Senator Susan Collins (ME)
  • Senator Bill Cassidy (LA)
  • Senator Patty Murray (WA)
  • Senator Jerry Moran (KS)
  • Senator John Boozman (AR)
  • Senator Shelley Moore Capito (WV)
  • Senator Peter Welch (VT)

Representatives

  • Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-7)
  • Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-2)
  • Congressman Buddy Carter (GA-1)
  • Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20)
  • Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-3)
  • Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-1)
  • Congressman Michael Guest (MS-3)
  • Congressman Michael Bost (IL-12)
  • Congresswoman Carol Miller (WV-1)
  • Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13)
  • Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16)
  • Congressman Kelly Armstrong (ND- At Large)
  • Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5)
  • Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37)
  • Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15)
  • Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT- At Large)

 

Senator Stabenow Receives Inaugural EMS Legacy Award

Written by Meghan Winesett on . Posted in Cost Data Collection, Legislative, Legislative Awards, Medicare, Press.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tristan North
tnorth@ambulance.org
October 10, 2024

 

Senator Debbie Stabenow Receives Inaugural EMS Legacy Award from the American Ambulance Association

 

Washington, D.C. — Senator Debbie Stabenow has been honored with the first-ever annual EMS Legacy Award by the American Ambulance Association (AAA) for her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to emergency medical services (EMS) during her distinguished tenure in the United States Senate.

The award recognizes Senator Stabenow’s significant contributions to the EMS community, particularly her role in introducing and championing critical legislation. Notably, she was instrumental in the creation of the Ground Ambulance Cost Data Collection System, which enhances transparency and supports the sustainability of ground ambulance services across the nation. Additionally, Senator Stabenow’s efforts led to the successful extension of Medicare Ambulance Add-On payments for five years, a vital support mechanism that helps ensure reliable emergency medical care for Medicare beneficiaries.

The EMS Legacy Award underscores the critical importance of legislative support for emergency medical services, highlighting Senator Stabenow’s role in elevating these issues on the national stage. Her advocacy ensures that EMS providers have the resources and support needed to deliver high-quality care.

About the American Ambulance Association:
The American Ambulance Association is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the interests of ambulance service providers and the patients they serve. With a mission to advance the profession and improve patient care, the AAA provides resources, education, and support to its members and the EMS community.

Congressman Mike Bost Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

Written by Tristan North on . Posted in Legislative, Legislative Awards, Press, Veterans Affairs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tristan North
tnorth@ambulance.org
October 10, 2024

Congressman Mike Bost Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

from the American Ambulance Association

 

Washington, D.C. — The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has awarded Mike Bost (IL) a 2024 AAA Legislative Recognition Award in recognition of his leadership in ensuring veterans continue to have access to emergency 9-1-1 and interfacility ground ambulance services.

Congressman Bost introduced the bipartisan VA Emergency Transportation Access Act (S. 2757, H.R. 6433) to direct the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to further analyze the impact of the VA Final Rule on Special Modes of Transportation and create an advisory committee to evaluate future reimbursement rates for ambulance services.

The Rule as it stands would reimburse ambulance service providers below the costs of providing medical and transport services. S. 2757 would help ensure that ambulance service providers throughout Kansas and the country do not face further cuts to VA reimbursement which would limit their ability to provide lifesaving emergency medical services to our nation’s veterans.

Due to the efforts of Congressman Bost and a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives, the VA has recently stated it will delay implementation of the Final Rule for four years which would provide time to determine more fair and adequate payment rates for ambulance services.

“We greatly appreciate the leadership of Congressman Moran in ensuring that our veterans and entire communities will continue to have access to vital ground ambulance service,” said AAA President, Randy Strozyk. “His perseverance paid off with the VA recognizing the need to delay implementation of the final rule to provide more time to address concerns that the new payment system could adversely affect ambulance access for veterans.”

The American Ambulance Association will be presenting Congressman Bost with his Legislative Recognition Award this November at the AAA Annual Stars of Life Event, which honors emergency medical services professionals from around the nation who have gone above and beyond in service to their communities.

Congressman Ryan Zinke Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

Written by Tristan North on . Posted in Legislative, Legislative Awards, Press, Veterans Affairs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tristan North
tnorth@ambulance.org
October 10, 2024

Congressman Ryan Zinke Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

from the American Ambulance Association

 

Washington, D.C. — The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has awarded Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT) a 2024 AAA Legislative Recognition Award in recognition of his leadership in ensuring veterans continue to have access to emergency 9-1-1 and interfacility ground ambulance services.

Congressman Zinke has led efforts to restrict the ability of the Department of Veterans Affairs to implement its Final Rule on Special Modes of Transportation which would reimburse ambulance service providers below the costs of providing medical and transport services to our veterans. Congressman Zinke has supported efforts to instead create an advisory committee to evaluate future VA reimbursement rates for ambulance services.

Due to the efforts of Congressman Zinke and a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives, the VA has recently stated it will delay implementation of the Final Rule for four years which would provide time to determine more fair and adequate payment rates for ambulance services.

“We thank Congressman Zinke for his dedication and perseverance to ensuring that our veterans and entire communities will continue to have access to vital ground ambulance service,” said AAA President, Randy Strozyk.

The American Ambulance Association will be presenting Congressman Zinke with his Legislative Recognition Award this November at the AAA Annual Stars of Life Event, which honors emergency medical services professionals from around the nation who have gone above and beyond in service to their communities.

Senator Jerry Moran Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

Written by Tristan North on . Posted in Legislative, Legislative Awards, News, Press, Veterans Affairs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tristan North
tnorth@ambulance.org
October 8, 2024

Senator Jerry Moran Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

from the American Ambulance Association

Washington, D.C. — The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has awarded Jerry Moran (KS) a 2024 AAA Legislative Recognition Award in recognition of his leadership in ensuring veterans continue to have access to emergency 9-1-1 and interfacility ground ambulance services.

Senator Moran introduced with a bipartisan group of Senators the VA Emergency Transportation Access Act (S. 2757, H.R. 6433) to direct the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to further analyze the impact of the VA Final Rule on Special Modes of Transportation and create an advisory committee to evaluate future reimbursement rates for ambulance services.

The Rule as it stands would reimburse ambulance service providers below the costs of providing medical and transport services. S. 2757 would help ensure that ambulance service providers throughout Kansas and the country do not face further cuts to VA reimbursement which would limit their ability to provide lifesaving emergency medical services to our nation’s veterans.

Due to the efforts of Senator Moran and a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives, the VA has recently stated it will delay implementation of the Final Rule for four years which would provide time to determine more fair and adequate payment rates for ambulance services.

“We greatly appreciate the leadership of Senator Moran in ensuring that our veterans and entire communities will continue to have access to vital ground ambulance service,” said AAA President, Randy Strozyk. “His perseverance paid off with the VA recognizing the need to delay implementation of the final rule to provide more time to address concerns that the new payment system could adversely affect ambulance access for veterans.”

The American Ambulance Association will be presenting Senator Moran with his Legislative Recognition Award this November at the AAA Annual Stars of Life Event, which honors emergency medical services professionals from around the nation who have gone above and beyond in service to their communities.

Senator Jon Tester Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

Written by Tristan North on . Posted in Legislative Awards, Press, Stars of Life, Veterans Affairs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tristan North
tnorth@ambulance.org
October 7, 2024

Senator Jon Tester Honored with Legislative Recognition Award

from the American Ambulance Association

Washington, D.C. — The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has awarded Senator Jon Tester (MT) a 2024 AAA Legislative Recognition Award in recognition of his leadership in ensuring veterans continue to have access to emergency 9-1-1 and interfacility ground ambulance services.

Senator Tester introduced with a bipartisan group of Senators the VA Emergency Transportation Access Act (S. 2757, H.R. 6433) to direct the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to further analyze the impact of the VA Final Rule on Special Modes of Transportation and create an advisory committee to evaluate future reimbursement rates for ambulance services.

The Rule as it stands would reimburse ambulance service providers below the costs of providing medical and transport services. S. 2757 would help ensure that ambulance service providers throughout Montana and the country do not face further cuts to VA reimbursement which would limit their ability to provide lifesaving emergency medical services to our nation’s veterans.

Due to the efforts of Senator Tester and a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives, the VA has recently stated it will delay implementation of the Final Rule for four years which would provide time to determine more fair and adequate payment rates for ambulance services.

“Senator Tester’s leadership on this issue has been instrumental in advancing our mission to preserve emergency medical services for veterans and entire communities,” said AAA President, Randy Strozyk. “His dedication to supporting our nation’s heroes exemplifies the kind of leadership we need to ensure that all veterans have access to timely and efficient emergency care.”

The American Ambulance Association will be presenting Senator Jon Tester with his Legislative Recognition Award this November at the AAA Annual Stars of Life Event, which honors emergency medical services professionals from around the nation who have gone above and beyond in service to their communitie

Press Release: Congressman Brad Finstad Honored as Legislator of the Year

Written by Meghan Winesett on . Posted in Legislative Awards, News, Uncategorized.

Press Contact
Tristan North
Senior Vice President
American Ambulance Association
tnorth@ambulance.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Congressman Brad Finstad Honored as 2024 Legislator of the Year by the American Ambulance Association

Washington, D.C. — September 23, 2024 — Congressman Brad Finstad, representing Minnesota’s 1st District, has been named the 2024 Legislator of the Year by the American Ambulance Association (AAA) in recognition of his exceptional leadership in tackling the pressing workforce challenges faced by the emergency medical services (EMS) industry.

As the EMS community confronts a serious shortage of qualified personnel, Congressman Finstad has emerged as a crucial champion for effective solutions. His leadership on H.R. 6433, the PARA-EMT Act, marks a significant advancement in efforts to attract and retain EMS professionals nationwide.

The PARA-EMT Act seeks to establish an EMS Workforce Grant aimed at recruiting, training, and retaining EMS professionals. It also includes a provision to assist combat medics with first response experience in their transition to the civilian workforce and directs the Department of Labor and the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct a study on the EMS workforce shortage and the necessary training and education to meet the evolving demands of the pre-hospital industry over the next decade.

Congressman Finstad’s leadership and commitment exemplify his dedication to sustaining a robust future for emergency medical services and to serving our nation’s veterans.

“Congressman Finstad’s devotion to the EMS workforce is vital to not only our industry, but to all of America’s communities,” stated AAA President Randy Strozyk. “His leadership has established a foundation for policies that will help mitigate the workforce crisis, ensuring our communities receive the critical care they require.”

The American Ambulance Association is proud to present the Legislator of the Year Award to Congressman Brad Finstad for his efforts on behalf of the EMS industry.

The award will be presented at the AAA Stars of Life event in Washington, D.C., on November 12th.

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About AAA

The American Ambulance Association represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation. The AAA was formed in response to the need for improvements in medical transportation and emergency medical services. AAA views pre-hospital care not only as a public service, but also as an essential part of the total public health care system.

Press Release: Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez Honored as Legislator of the Year

Written by Meghan Winesett on . Posted in Legislative Awards, News, Press, Reimbursement.

Press Contact
Tristan North
Senior Vice President
American Ambulance Association
tnorth@ambulance.org

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez Awarded 2024 Legislator of the Year by the American Ambulance Association

Washington, D.C. — September 23, 2024 — Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has been recognized as the 2024 Legislator of the Year by the American Ambulance Association (AAA) for her outstanding leadership in addressing the critical workforce shortage facing the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) industry.

In a time when the EMS sector grapples with a significant shortage of qualified personnel, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez has emerged as a vital advocate for meaningful change. Her introduction of the H.R. 6433, the PARA-EMT Act, has been a pivotal step in advancing solutions to recruit and retain EMS professionals across the nation.

“Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez’s commitment to the EMS workforce is not just commendable; it is essential,” said AAA President Randy Strozyk. “Her leadership has laid the groundwork for policies that will help alleviate the workforce crisis, ensuring that our communities receive the emergency care they deserve.”

The PARA-EMT Act aims to create an EMS Workforce Grant to help recruit, train, and retain EMS professionals and tasks the Department of Labor and Department of Health and Human Services with creating a study of the EMS workforce shortage and the training and education needed to meet the demands of the pre-hospital industry over the next decade. Additionally, the legislation includes a provision to assist combat medics with first response experience in transitioning into the civilian workforce.

Introduction of this legislation reflects the Congresswoman’s dedication not only to securing a strong future for emergency medical services to meet the needs of  our communities, but also her dedication to serving our nation’s veterans.

The American Ambulance Association is honored to award our Legislator of the Year Award to Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a true advocate of emergency medical services.

The award will be presented at the AAA Stars of Life event in Washington, D.C. on November 12th.

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About AAA

The American Ambulance Association represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation. The AAA was formed in response to the need for improvements in medical transportation and emergency medical services. AAA views pre-hospital care not only as a public service, but also as an essential part of the total public health care system.

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2023 AAA Legislative Awards

Written by Meghan Winesett on . Posted in Awards, Legislative, Legislative Awards, News, Press, Stars of Life.

The American Ambulance Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2023 AAA Legislative Awards. Each Member of Congress is being recognized for their strong advocacy for emergency medical services and their ongoing dedication to ambulance services across the United States.

2023 AAA Legislators of the Year

Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D (LA)
Senator Jon Tester (MT)

2023 AAA Legislative Recognition Award Recipients

Senators

  • Senator Cortez Masto (NV)
  • Senator Collins (ME)
  • Senator Stabenow (MI)
  • Senator Schumer (NY)
  • Senator Lujan (NM)
  • Senator Kaine (VA)
  • Senator Murkowski (AK)
  • Senator Tuberville (AL)
  • Senator Murray (WA)
  • Senator Moran (KS)
  • Senator Boozman (AR)

Representatives

  • Congressman Blumenauer (OR-3)
  • Congresswoman Kelly (IL-2)
  • Congresswoman Sewell (AL-7)
  • Congressman Wenstrup (OH-2)
  • Congressman Carter (GA-1)
  • Congressman Tonko (NY-20)
  • Congressman Davis (IL-7)
  • Congresswoman Perez (WA-3)
  • Congressman Finstad (MN-1)
  • Congressman Pence (IN-6)
  • Congressman Kim (NJ-3)
  • Congresswoman Clark (MA-5)
  • Congressman Zinke (MT-1)
  • Congressman Guest (MS-3)
  • Congresswoman Hoyle (OR-4)
  • Congressman Bost (IL-12)
  • Congressman Alford (MO-4)

 

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