WKBW
ERIE, Pa. — Paramedics, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, physicians, nurses, educators, administrators and other members of local Emergency Medical Services teams were honored for their efforts in providing immediate and lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rates of those who experience severe injuries or sudden illnesses.
Erie County Executive Chris Collins said, “The members of Emergency Medical Services teams deserve to be commended for their bravery and courage, as they are always willing to put their lives on the line for others. It is my honor to present this proclamation to EMS representatives here today, though we cannot thank them enough for their consistent efforts.”
“Erie County is fortunate to have highly skilled emergency medical service providers who are extremely dedicated to their mission,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Anthony Billittier. “These people allow us to be confident in times of emergency in our community, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together with these workers.”
Emergency Services Commissioner Greg Skibitsky said, “Approximately two-thirds of all emergency medical services providers are volunteers, which says a lot about the people in our community. Whether they are career or volunteer responders, we are fortunate to have this talented group of first responders reacting to emergency situations all over Erie County every single day. I am proud to work with these courageous individuals on a daily basis, and am pleased that they provided this opportunity to be honored.”
Emergency Medical Services providers engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills.
Americans benefit daily from the knowledge and skills of these highly trained individuals and, injury prevention and the appropriate use of the EMS system will help reduce national health care costs.
Reprinted with permission from WBKW.