Elevating EMS Education: Insights and Innovations from Industry Leaders

Dr. Ted Lee discusses education as part of EMS Week. The discussion features Dr. Shira Schlesinger, Dr. Navin Ariyaprakai and Dr. Maia Dorsett

They highlight the importance of transitioning from traditional, time-based training to a more dynamic and critical-thinking-focused curriculum that fosters professional growth and clinical judgment among EMS providers.

The conversation touches on the value of accreditation, the role of preceptor training, and the increasing demand for lifelong learning within the field.

Celebrating Emergency Medical Services: Insights on EMS Recognition Day

JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel talks with Dr. Thomas Lardaro to discuss the critical role of emergency medical services in our communities. Celebrating EMS Recognition Day, Dr. Lardaro reflects on the profound responsibilities and challenges faced by EMS professionals both in urban and rural settings. He highlights the importance of public understanding regarding the unique pressures faced by first responders and the need for meaningful recognition beyond traditional celebrations.

Advocating for EMS: Shaping the Future of Prehospital Care

Dr. Ted Lee talks with Dr. Nick Cozzi, Dr. David Tan and Henry Lewis. They talk about the importance of grassroots advocacy, exploring how every EMS provider serves as an ambassador for the profession.

By sharing their stories and building relationships at local and federal levels, they emphasize the need for a unified voice to promote essential changes in legislation and funding. The panelists highlight the evolving landscape of EMS, driven by innovative care strategies and partnerships that enhance patient outcomes.

Dr. Ted Lee looks at the impact and importance of Save a Life Day for EMS Week. Featuring expert guests Dr. Matt Levy and Corey Richter, the discussion underscores the critical role of community engagement in prehospital emergency medicine.

Both leaders share their extensive backgrounds in EMS and emphasize the necessity of equipping citizens with essential skills to respond effectively in emergencies, such as performing CPR, managing bleeding and advocating for blood donation initiatives.

They highlight that by fostering a proactive culture of preparedness, communities can significantly improve health outcomes and save lives.

Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Luke Estes, manager of Prisma Health's Mobile Integrated Health Program, to explore the transformative role of community paramedics in prehospital medicine. Dennis shares his journey from a young aspiring EMT in Missouri to leading a groundbreaking health initiative in South Carolina. The program, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2019, addresses various social determinants of health, aiming to reduce hospital readmissions and enhance patient care access. With a footprint spanning 18 counties—primarily rural—this initiative adapts to meet diverse community needs, breaking down barriers to healthcare through education and resource connection.

In this episode of the JEMS Report, Dr. Ted Lee convenes a panel of pediatric emergency medicine experts to discuss the significance of EMS Week 2025 and the critical EMS for Children program. The panel, featuring Dr. Ann M. Dietrich, Dr. Kathleen Adelgais and Dr. Lindsay Jaeger, highlights the essential role of EMS professionals in providing pre-hospital care for pediatric patients, particularly in emergency situations. With less than 10% of EMS calls involving children, the discussion sheds light on the urgency of enhancing pediatric readiness within EMS agencies. The doctors emphasize the wealth of resources available through the Pediatric Readiness Project, designed to fortify preparation and education for emergency providers. This episode serves as a vital reminder of the commitment to better serve our youngest patients and the importance of collaboration in advancing pediatric emergency care.

Dr. Ted Lee talks with Dr. Douglas Kupas and Dr. Joanne Piccininni on the topic of EMS safety during EMS Week 2025. With decades of experience in EMS, both guests highlight the significance of prioritizing safety within the EMS community, stressing that awareness and proactive measures can prevent injuries and fatalities. They discuss the need for a cultural shift in EMS, focusing on safety practices such as seatbelt usage and risk awareness. The conversation also reflects on the tragic loss of colleagues in the line of duty, reinforcing the essential nature of mentoring and supporting new practitioners.

In this episode of the JEMS Report, Dr. Ted Lee sits down with Shaun Gladney, executive director of the Bryant Gladney Foundation, a nonprofit established in memory of his father, a dedicated paramedic and educator who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. The foundation's mission is to empower future EMS providers through scholarships for paramedic education and innovative educational offerings. Sean shares his father’s impressive legacy in the field, emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and mentorship in pre-hospital medicine. The conversation also unveils the foundation’s initiatives, including the upcoming All Star EMS Conference and its growing scholarship program aimed at fostering exceptional talent in emergency medical services.