FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 16, 2023
National EMS Week May 21-27, 2023: Where Emergency Care Begins
Pitt County Board of Commissioners recognize EMS professionals
Janis Gallagher, Jim McArthur, Randy Gentry, Mary Perkins-Williams Photo courtesy of Public Information Office
PITT COUNTY, N.C. – National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week is Sunday, May 21 through Saturday, May 27, 2023. The Board of County Commissioners celebrated and recognized Pitt County EMS professionals at the Monday, May 15 meeting. This year's national theme is EMS: Where Emergency Care Begins. Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury. In 2022, Pitt County EMS units responded to over 15,000 calls for service. 57% of EMS call volume resulted in EMS treatment or transportation to the Emergency Department.
The EMS Division of Pitt County Emergency Management (PCEM) has served residents of Pitt County since 2002. Pitt County EMS directly operates four ambulance stations and two Quick Response Vehicles (QRV).
“The Pitt County EMS system is comprised of multiple agencies that span from 911 operators and first responders to Paramedics and EMT’s. EMS Week is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of all of the men and women who serve their communities in these positions. EMS professionals excel in austere environments and perform multiple roles within the healthcare and emergency response systems.” says Jim McArthur, Deputy Director/EMS Coordinator.
Pitt County EMS has 30 full time and 8 part time paramedics as well as four senior paramedics who serve as assistant supervisors. There are four shift supervisors that directly supervise Pitt County EMS employees and oversee daily operations of the entire EMS system.
Pitt County EMS has an award-winning Community Paramedic Program designed to expand EMS services by providing in-home healthcare to underserved Pitt County residents who lack access to medical care. The program provides healthcare to citizens of Pitt County at a reduced cost and decreases non-emergency 911 calls.
“I am very proud of our EMS professionals for their excellent service to our community. Join me in recognizing them for a job well done,” says Randy Gentry, Director, Pitt County Emergency Management.
The Pitt County Website, Pitt County Facebook page, and the PCEM Facebook page, will feature special graphics and daily posts honoring National EMS Week.
The Mission of Pitt County Government is to enhance the health, safety, and well-being of our community by advocating for and providing quality services in a friendly and cost-effective manner. Learn more: www.PittCountyNC.gov
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Media Contact:
Dawn C. Jones
Director, Public Information & Media Relations Past Releases:
dawn.jones@pittcountync.gov | (252) 902-2955 www.PittCountyNC.gov/PIO