EMS week highlights the dedicated EMS providers across the nation. While we recognize providers during this week, we cannot forget them the other weeks of the year. Emergency Medical Services since its conception in 1966 has drastically changed. We have seen an increase in call volumes largely in part due to population increases. We have seen new equipment and protocols developed which have allowed for a higher level of pre-hospital care.
Improving outcomes, together. That is what we focus on this year. EMS is only a single part of the healthcare system, much of the time the first that a patient who is sick or injured is introduced to. The initial care that a patient receives prior to arriving at an Emergency Department can make a major difference. Implementation of Continuing education and investing in our providers, can and has made that difference for our patients.
Mental health support is another way we here at New Bedford EMS are attempting to improve the outcomes together. Last year we developed and implemented the first official NBEMS Peer Support Team. A team of providers, who know the realities of the job and focus on helping their fellow co-workers if they find themselves in hard times. Changing the stigma surrounding mental health, starting right here at home.
I am beyond proud of the providers that wear the New Bedford EMS patch on the uniform. They show up day in and day out, providing the best care they possibly can for every patient, every time. This week, I want to take a moment to show the community where we are, where we have been and where we are going. In the ever-changing field of healthcare, there is always better to come, there is always a chance to improve the outcome, and we are dedicated to doing that together.