JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Brian LaCroix, President/EMS Chief of Allina Health EMS and Ed Racht, MD, Chief Medical Officer for American Medical Response (AMR), were recognized for their commitments to advancing the profession at the 10th annual Pinnacle EMS Leadership Forum.
LaCroix received the Pinnacle EMS Leadership Award which recognizes an outstanding contribution to advancing the EMS profession.
“Brian’s journey into EMS began when he called 911 for help himself,” said Jay Fitch, PhD, founding partner of Fitch & Associates. “Since the day when he experienced EMS firsthand as a patient, Brian has devoted himself to serving the industry that helped him in his time of need. Brian’s quiet leadership, clear vision, and determined perseverance have not only helped strengthen Allina Health EMS, but they’ve helped strengthen the EMS profession as a whole.”
Racht received the first-ever Joseph P. Ornato Award for Clinical Leadership in EMS. The award — named after the professor, medical director for the Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) and researcher from Virginia—will be presented each year to an individual who exemplifies both an unwavering commitment and an innovative approach to advancing clinical leadership in EMS.
“Ed has been a tireless, entertaining and inspirational advocate for improved patient care, as a medical director, writer and speaker,” said Fitch.
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| Dr. Ed Racht presenting at the 2015 Pinnacle EMS Leadership Forum (Image courtesy the Red Flash Group) |
Early is his career, Racht served under Ornato at RAA. “Joe was my mentor and teacher,” said Dr. Racht. “I am honored to be presented this award in his name.”
Pinnacle is a national conference for senior EMS leaders. More than 500 of LaCroix and Racht’s colleagues gave them a standing ovation. Next year Pinnacle will be held in San Antonio, Texas July 18-22.