Will there be a Virginia EMS Symposium next year?
OEMS is currently evaluating all spending in order to ensure that our focus is on our core activity of carrying out essential programs that ensure a comprehensive, coordinated EMS system in the Commonwealth.
If I had planned to attend the Symposium to attain my needed Continuing Education (CE) hours and now I will not be able to certify in time for my renewal, are there options?
Yes, there are still many educational opportunities available, including:
- VectorSolutions – A free online continuing education learning platform: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/education-certification/provider-resources/vectorsolutions-online-continuing-education/.
- Additional online education resources: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/education-certification/provider-resources/web-based-continuing-education/
- Regional EMS Councils’ sponsored education courses: vaems.org
- EMS Training Course Locator: https://vdhems.vdh.virginia.gov/emsapps/f?p=200:4
- Agencies and organizationally sponsored courses, including those offered by hospitals and other public safety organizations.
If you find that you will not be able to attain the needed hours in time for your renewal, you may request a variance to the expiration date of your certification. The link to apply for the variance is located at: https://vdhems.vdh.virginia.gov/emsapps/f?p=LCR:EXCEPTION
How will registrants be reimbursed for their registration fees?
Symposium participants who have registered for this year’s event will be refunded full registration fees. The administrative fee for cancellation of registration will be waived. OEMS will be working directly with registrants, faculty, and vendors on reimbursements. Contact Accreditation, Certification and Education Division Director Debbie Akers at emstechasst@vdh.virginia.gov for specific questions about your registration reimbursement.
How long will it take to receive the registration reimbursement?
Reimbursement for registration payments should occur no later than September 22, 2023.
How will hotel deposits paid through the registration process be reimbursed?
Deposits made to the three host hotels (Norfolk Waterside Marriott, Sheraton Waterside Norfolk and Hilton Norfolk The Main) will be refunded to the credit card used when confirming the original reservation. Please reach out to the host hotel regarding your hotel reservation cancellation and deposit refund
What if I scheduled my hotel separately from Symposium registration?
If you handled your hotel reservation personally with any of the three host hotels or other area hotels, you are responsible for your cancellation. Please reach out directly to the hotel to cancel your reservation.
How will the 2023 Governor’s EMS Award winners be recognized?
We are still considering an alternative plan for recognizing the 2023 Governor’s EMS Award winners.
How will instructor reimbursement occur?
For questions about instructor reimbursements, contact Accreditation, Certification and Education Division Director Debbie Akers at emstechasst@vdh.virginia.gov.
How will vendors and sponsors be reimbursed?
For questions about vendor reimbursements, contact Vendor Hall Manager Marcia Pescitani, marcia@vaems.org, 804-750-0816.
For questions about sponsorship reimbursements, contact Fiscal Agent Sandi McGrath at sshort@vaems.org.