Learn about the Virginia EMS Repository, how it supports EMS data reporting, how to confidently use its tools to improve data quality and meet regulatory reporting requirements. This series is coordinated through our partners at the Virginia Regional EMS Councils, and is hosted by OEMS System Optimization Specialist, Amanda Loreti, AAS, NRP.
VA EMS Repository Workshop Series
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)
Happy Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, May 17-23, 2026! EMS for Children Day, May 20, focuses on the pediatric patient and the specialized care required when providing treatment to them.
Join us in recognizing the inspiring contributions of Virginia’s extraordinary EMS providers, as we thank them for their dedication to serving their neighbors and communities, and improving outcomes, together.
This year’s National EMS Week theme is, “Improving Outcomes, Together.” This concept extends beyond medicine and focuses on a collective responsibility to invest in the providers who are dedicated to serving their communities and saving lives.
Additionally, each day of EMS Week will feature a special area of focus. Learn more about EMS Week at: https://emsweek.org/.
The 2026 National EMS Week themed days are as follows:
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.
EMS providers can now get help more easily with education questions and issues by using a new online support system.
Starting mid-March, a new form called the EMS Education Support Request Form became available. It helps track questions and issues to make sure they get to the right people. You can find the form on the Virginia Office of EMS’ (OEMS) website by clicking the link for Accreditation, Certification & Education.
This change makes getting help clearer and easier for EMS providers,” said Deputy Director of Professional Standards and Accountability Cam Crittenden, RN. “We want to support EMS providers and keep finding better ways to help.
The system uses teamwork to make sure questions go to the right OEMS staff. It also improves organization and communication.
The OEMS website also has lots of helpful resources to answer frequently asked questions. Regional EMS Offices are also great places to get assistance. If you still need answers, the support system is there to help with just a few clicks.
