LOS ANGELES — A new documentary is in the works to honor the late James O. Page, the visionary often referred to as “the father of modern EMS.”
“This Life, After All,” produced by Individually Wrapped Films in partnership with Los Angeles County Fire Museum Association and several EMS-focused organizations and filmmakers, will explore Page’s role in shaping modern EMS — from his leadership in launching paramedic programs in the early 1970s to his influence on how emergency care is delivered, perceived and valued today. Filmmakers aim to introduce Page’s groundbreaking contributions to a new generation while reigniting appreciation among seasoned EMS professionals.
A force behind the profession
Page’s influence on emergency medical services runs deep. As a battalion chief with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, he oversaw the rollout of paramedics in 1969, at a time when the role was still met with skepticism. Not long after, he caught the attention of Jack Webb, the producer behind Dragnet, who was seeking inspiration for a new TV series. The result was “Emergency!” — a show that brought paramedics into the homes and hearts of Americans and fueled a nationwide surge in EMS careers.
| RELATED: Steve Buscemi, ‘Emergency!’ stars team up to spotlight paramedics in new documentary
Beyond Hollywood, Page’s impact continued to grow. He became a fire chief, a state EMS director, a practicing attorney, and a prolific writer and speaker. In 1980, he co-founded JEMS, a publication that helped shape the national EMS conversation for decades. He was also president of the Los Angeles County Fire Museum at the time of his passing in 2004 from sudden cardiac arrest.
A storyteller takes the helm
Director Mark Jacobs, a veteran filmmaker and journalist, has been tapped to lead the production. Jacobs has a rich background in directing and producing documentaries, television series, and broadcast news, with credits including “Jesse’s Story,” “Changing Faces” and “Kitchen Nightmares.” He is a member of the Directors Guild of America and the Society of Camera Operators.
“This film means a lot to me,” Jacobs said. “Jim Page didn’t just help build the framework for EMS; he gave the gift of life to people he’d never meet, simply because he believed every life matters.”
| MORE: From 73 to 33 minutes: How Sacramento reinvented patient offload times
Jacobs said Page’s story is one of purpose, passion and persistence: “We take emergency care for granted now, but it wasn’t always there. Page was a force — driven, kind, relentless in his vision. His story is one that can’t be lost to time.”
Honoring a legacy, inspiring the future
Executive producer Janet Smith, who has worked in EMS communications for more than three decades, said Jacobs’ storytelling skills make him the right person to bring Page’s legacy to life.
“Mark’s career has been defined by a passion for crafting compelling narratives and leading creative teams to success,” Smith said. “He ensures that every story is told with accuracy and impact.”
The film, set to release in late 2025, will serve as a historical reflection, but also as a call to remember the roots of EMS — and the individuals who shaped its course.
To watch the trailer, click here.
