In the days, weeks and months following Sept. 11, we all witnessed the tremendous work accomplished by emergency response professionals. As the world looked on in shocked disbelief, the passion, commitment, professionalism and humanity demonstrated by emergency medical services (EMS) teams were hailed as heroic. Yet, we in the medical community see the quiet, often unnoticed heroism that takes place every day in our community.
That is why Monmouth Medical Center enthusiastically joins the American College of Emergency Physicians in its celebration of Emergency Medical Services Week May 19-25. This year’s theme — "Help is Just a Heartbeat Away" — clearly has taken on a special significance, considering the tragic events of last September.
Emergency medical services is a vital public service, a system of care for victims of sudden or serious illness or injury. This system depends on the availability and coordination of many different elements. The 911 emergency number, search-and-rescue teams, and pre-hospital and emergency department personnel are some of the critical elements necessary for the EMS system to work.
President Gerald Ford’s signing of the first official National Emergency Medical Services Week proclamation in 1974 recognized the accomplishments of the men and women who dedicate themselves to saving the lives of others and to the ideal time to highlight how EMS makes a crucial difference in the lives of Americans.
And its theme addresses the successes and challenges EMS organizations face today—not only in responding quickly and effectively to medical emergencies, but also to meeting special local needs and the ongoing challenge of educating the public in how to live safe and healthy lives.
By reminding us that "help is just a heartbeat away," this year’s theme emphasizes the responsiveness of EMS around the country, while underscoring the importance of the national 911 emergency services number system. And it addresses the commitment and dedication of the 750,000 EMS providers — nearly two-thirds of them volunteers — who so selflessly serve their communities.
As a physician and hospital administrator, I know access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury. Monmouth Medical Center honors the contributions of EMS providers, our partners in care, and during the celebration of EMS week, we stress the importance of strong public support for the EMS system.
Frank J. Vozos, M.D.
Executive director
Monmouth Medical Center
Long Branch