Often, we forget that there are those who take on tasks that most shy away from. Emergency medical services (EMS) is one of those things. May 19 through May 25 is EMS Week throughout the country. This year, EMS celebrates its 50th anniversary as a recognized service and vital part of the health care system.
It was 50 years ago that a presidential proclamation called on the nation to support efforts to improve emergency medical care across the country. It also established the first national EMS Week, a tradition we proudly continue today. Much has changed since 1974, yet there is still much we can learn from those trailblazing clinicians who helped EMS evolve into the sophisticated branch of medicine it is today. Their dedication, commitment and sacrifice inspire us to take bold steps of our own, to continue to seek out ways to better serve our patients and our communities.
I am just over my 50 year mark in EMS. All of my time spent with Bushkill Emergency Corps, which is a grassroots, community-based organization. It was established in 1965, predating the recognition of the role that EMS plays in providing life-saving treatments. As has been noted, much has changed since both the start of the ambulance service and national recognition.
The level of care provided today through the EMS system is extraordinary. The life-saving equipment on ambulances brings the emergency room to your home or medical emergency. The first ambulances were often simply the hearse out of the local funeral home. The objective was to swoop up the patient and drive very fast to the hospital. That was it. What happened, just happened.
For many of us who grew up in the '70s, we were motivated by one TV show, "Emergency!" It was a Saturday night TV staple in our household and created the desire to be able to do the things that Johnny and Roy did that were so exciting. For our family, it motivated every one of us (all four kids) and my parents to become trained and volunteer doing the life-saving work of the day.
This meant that by 1972, the expectation of advanced-level care on the streets and in the homes of Americans grew, primarily fueled by that iconic TV show. The show portrayed paramedics providing care in an advanced manner never before seen, now watched by millions every week. For more than five years, America watched Johnny and Roy swoop in to save lives and help those in distress. Although just a TV show, "Emergency!" set a standard expectation for the public and served as a catalyst for many of us pursue careers in EMS. Today a career that begins in EMS offers a vast number of opportunities in many fields of work.
Those who enjoy the ability to serve the public, like to be able to solve problems, can work with a team and see results that make a difference in someone’s life find EMS a rewarding career. There is a need to have the new generations have the same level of excitement that those of us motivated by that TV show had. New technology drives the field as well as new medical treatments that really make a difference. Hats off to those who dedicate their lives and time to serving the communities in which they live. Career or volunteer, the difference they make is measured one life at a time.
EMS providers are recognized as everyday heroes. Whereas law enforcement is known as the Thin Blue Line, EMS is recognized by The Thin White Line. It is explained in this verse: “A symbol of skill, dedication and compassion, the Thin White Line shows respect for EMS professions. It serves as Tribute to EMS heroes hurt in the line of duty, and honors those who provide a steady presence in emergencies and work to keep communities safe.”
And for that, we all say thank you for all you do.
Debbie Kulick is an EMT who writes a weekly news column for the Pocono Record.
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