Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2022 MDHHS CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, [email protected]
Governor Whitmer honors Michigan’s EMS heroes by LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is honoring Michigan’s EMS Heroes for their lifesaving work on the front lines of the pandemic by proclaiming May 15-21 as EMS Recognition Week. “Michigan’s EMS Heroes step up to serve our communities every day,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “During EMS Recognition Week, let’s thank our local heroes for always being there when we need it most and helping our neighbors, family, and friends. We must also recommit ourselves to having their backs through our actions, which is why I proposed awarding $50 million in hero pay to first responders throughout the state in my budget for next year. I will work with anyone to get these bonuses enacted and deliver for our first responders in both my words and actions.” Michigan EMS providers deliver highly skilled pre-hospital care to residents in need during emergencies. Their work improves survival and recovery rates of people with sudden illnesses and injuries. “Michigan EMS professionals play a critical role in keeping our residents safe and healthy,” said Jason MacDonald, president of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services and vice president of administration at Medstar Ambulance. “We are extremely proud of the work we do, being there for those in-need of medical assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is tough but rewarding work and we greatly appreciate the recognition during EMS week.” EMS fills critical health care gaps by providing important out-of-hospital care, including preventative medicine, follow-up care and access to telemedicine. EMS agencies have played an essential role during the pandemic, reducing hospital stays by treating COVID-19 patients at home when possible. Michigan is home to more than 28,700 EMS providers, 812 life support agencies and nearly 4,000 licensed life support vehicles, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of EMS, Trauma and Preparedness. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ems. |
Whitmer Proclaims May 15-21 as EMS Recognition Week
