Author: Lauren Cantley
This year, we celebrated the 49th anniversary of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week. EMS Week was originally authorized by President Gerald Ford on November 4, 1974, for the week of November 3rd–10th. Starting in 1992, EMS Week moved to the third week of May. This week of appreciation is hosted by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) in partnership with the National Associations of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) and has historically been used as a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of EMS providers, as well as educate the general public on the impact of EMS in their communities. Generally, leadership of EMS agencies, hospitals, and representatives from local or state legislature utilize this week to recognize EMS personnel through various events such as cook-outs, giveaways, and public recognition.
The theme for 2023 was “EMS: Where Emergency Care Begins,” with the daily themes listed below:
- Sunday – Health, Wellness and Resilience Day
- Monday – EMS Education Day
- Tuesday – Safety Tuesday
- Wednesday – EMS for Children Day
- Thursday – Save-A-Life Day (CPR & Stop the Bleed)
- Friday – EMS Recognition Day
While EMS Week is an opportune time to reach out to your local EMS providers, appreciation can be shown any day of the year. Take a moment to thank someone you know in the EMS line of work!
