News Flash

National EMS Week is a scheduled for May 17-23, 2020. First authorized by President Gerald Ford in 1974, this is a full week set aside to honor the dedicated individuals who serve our community, through immediate care during a health crisis. With the world’s attention turned to the challenges presented by COVID-19, our frontline emergency medical workers, now more than ever have a direct focus on their efforts.

On Thursday, May 14, 2020, Pitt County EMS Medical Director, Dr. Roberto C. Portela received notification from the American Heart Association that Pitt County had once again been chosen as a recipient of the 2020 Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus recognition. This makes the 6^th straight year Pitt County has received this prestigious recognition; which honors EMS systems for their significant performance in providing care to patients suffering from ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) heart attacks. Additionally the Mission: Lifeline program recognizes organizations as an integral part of the STEMI system of care, impacting the overall care and outcome of the patient. This achievement illustrates a commitment to providing guidelines-based care while meeting high standards of performance.

Portela noted the combined effort needed to accomplish such mutual success, even more so for 6 years in a row, stating “this could not be possible without the continued partnership of the Pitt County EMS system, with partner agencies including Vidant Medical Center, ECU Emergency Medicine Department, Volunteer Fire Departments, 911 Dispatchers and all Emergency Medical workers.”

In addition to the honor received from the Mission: Lifeline program, Pitt County will also further recognize EMS Week with the following efforts:

• Staff Gift: Pitt County Emergency Management (PCEM) will be providing full time County EMS staff with a gift of custom, wooden EMS Flags; handcrafted by a local artisan, and feature emergency medical themes set against an American flag.
• Banners: 6’ wide vinyl banners promoting National EMS Week will be displayed at the entrances to the County Administrative Offices at 1717 West 5^th Street, and the County Office Complex located at Government Circle, both in Greenville.

• Website/Social Media: The Pitt County Website, Pitt County Facebook page, and the PCEM Facebook page, will all feature special graphics and daily posts honoring National EMS Week.

("EMS Flag" appreciation gift item presented to full time Pitt County EMS staff)