Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2025 MDHHS CONTACT: Laina Stebbins, [email protected] Governor Whitmer honors Michigan’s EMS Heroes LANSING, Mich. – To honor the life-saving health care provided by Michigan’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) practitioners every day, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed May 18-24 as EMS Recognition Week in Michigan. “This week, we come together to honor the courageous EMS professionals who work hard, 24/7, to keep us safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “They serve on the frontlines every day, bringing their medical expertise and compassion for people to high-pressure emergency situations. Michiganders everywhere are grateful for their service and sacrifices, and we should celebrate them not only by recognizing them with tributes, but also by having their backs on the job by ensuring they have the pay, benefits, and resources they need to succeed.” EMS practitioners stand ready day and night to help residents in need. They provide critical pre-hospital care to Michigan residents in emergencies and other health care situations, including preventative medicine, follow-up care, other emergent needs and more. The efforts of EMS practitioners help improve the survival and recovery rates of people who experience sudden illness or injury. “Michigan’s EMS professionals are the frontline of emergency care, delivering expertise and compassion when every second counts,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Their dedication saves lives and strengthens the fabric of our communities. This week, and every week, we thank them for answering the call.” “Michigan EMS practitioners take great pride in serving our communities and provide lifesaving pre-hospital care to residents in need,” said John Clayton, president of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services and System Director at MyMichigan EMS in Midland. “Working in EMS is a tough but rewarding career, and EMS Week is a great time to celebrate the important role of our industry and its practitioners.” Michigan is home to 29,367 EMS providers, 804 life support agencies and 4,060 licensed life support vehicles, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Division of EMS and Trauma within the Bureau of Emergency Preparedness, EMS and Systems of Care. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ems. There is always a need for new medics to join this essential field. Michigan residents interested in a career in EMS can get involved or learn more at GotWhatItTakes.org. |
May 18-24 is EMS Recognition Week
