Author: marianhunter

Dear EMS Professional,

During EMS week, we recognize and honor the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to emergency medical services across our state. This week provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the commitment, compassion and professionalism you bring to your community every day.

This year’s EMS week theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” reflects the collaborative spirit that defines this profession and the clinicians, who are a critical part of an interconnected system of care, working alongside each other to deliver timely, lifesaving support when it matters most. Through teamwork, innovation and shared purpose, you help improve outcomes for patients, families and entire communities every day.

Whether responding to medical emergencies, major incidents, natural disasters or routine calls for assistance, EMS providers consistently demonstrate professionalism under pressure and compassion in moments of uncertainty. Your ability to make rapid decisions, provide expert care, and offer reassurance during difficult circumstances represents the very best of public service. Despite these challenges of an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, increasing call volumes, workforce recruitment and retention, you continue to answer the call with dedication, courage and an enduring commitment to excellence.

We recognize that the strength of EMS extends far beyond emergency response. You are educators, administrators, advocates, problem-solvers, and trusted members of the communities you serve. Your work improves public health, supports healthcare systems and strengthens the safety and well-being of countless individuals across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

During EMS week, my staff and I, with the Virginia Department of Health Office of EMS, extend our deepest gratitude to you for contributing to the success of our statewide EMS system. Your service makes a lasting impact, and your commitment to improving outcomes together truly makes a difference. Thank you for your professionalism, sacrifice and your continued dedication to serving others.

With sincere appreciation,

Maria Beermann-Foat, PhD, NRP
Director
Virginia Office of EMS

Download – EMS Week 2026 Letter from the Director (PDF)

The Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services would like to ensure that all EMS agencies are aware of a significant federal funding opportunity currently available through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program.

Grant Overview:
NHTSA has communicated that local agencies have until May 26, 2026, to apply for SS4A funding. This program makes $1 billion available nationally to support projects that improve public safety infrastructure. Importantly, applications that include initiatives related to public safety infrastructure improvements and whole blood program implementation will receive priority consideration.

Why This Matters for EMS Agencies:
This funding presents a valuable opportunity for EMS agencies to advance critical safety initiatives, enhance response capabilities, and support programs that directly impact patient outcomes and community safety.

Recommended Action:
EMS agencies are encouraged to review the program details as soon as possible and consider submitting an application prior to the deadline. Complete information about the SS4A program, eligibility, and application requirements is available at: https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A

Next Steps:
Please share this information within your organization and begin coordinating internally if you intend to pursue this grant. 

Resources:
NHTSA’s Office of EMS Webinar – Safe Streets and Roads for All Grants: Preparing a Strong FY26 Post-Crash Care Application

Dear Public Safety Telecommunicator,   

Every call answered is a moment that matters. During National Public Safety Telecommunicators week, we recognize the extraordinary individuals across our nation’s public safety answering points (PSAPs) who serve as the vital first link in emergency response.  

This week, we honor the professionals whose skill, compassion and resilience make a profound difference every single day. Whether managing routine calls or navigating life-threatening emergencies, telecommunicators demonstrate unwavering dedication to public safety and community well-being. The work you do is both demanding and essential. It requires precision, emotional strength and the ability to adapt instantly to rapidly evolving situations. You are the bridge between those in need and the field responders traveling to their aid, often offering reassurance and clarity when it is needed most. Your professionalism and commitment do not go unnoticed.   

Over the past year, the challenges facing emergency communications have continued to evolve. From increased call volumes to advancing technologies and changing community needs, PSAP teams have remained steadfast in embracing innovation and continuing to deliver exceptional service under pressure. We recognize that behind every headset is a person who carries the weight of each call. Your resilience, teamwork and dedication to excellence are the foundation of effective emergency response systems across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Your contributions strengthen not only your agencies, but the entire public safety ecosystem.  

As we celebrate with you this week, my staff at the Virginia Office of EMS and I want to express our deepest gratitude for the critical role you play. Your work saves lives, supports first responders, and brings calm to uncertainty. You are truly the first, first responder. Thank you for your service, commitment and continued drive toward excellence to keep Virginians safe.   

With heartfelt appreciation, 

Maria Beermann-Foat, PhD, NRP
Director
Virginia Office of EMS