Volusia County EMS Recognized for Quality Care for Heart Attacks and Strokes

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Posted On: July 26, 2024

Volusia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has received a 2024 Mission: Lifeline bronze achievement award for its commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing severe heart attacks and strokes.

The honor is awarded by the American Heart Association to a select group of prehospital providers for their commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for their heart attack and stroke patients.

The program helps reduce barriers to prompt treatment - starting from when 911 is called, to EMS transport, and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge.

The AHA notes that EMS employees can begin treatment when they arrive - up to an hour sooner than if someone goes to the hospital by car - and are also trained to provide resuscitation efforts to someone whose heart has stopped.

The recognition program focuses on transforming quality of care by connecting all heart attack and stroke care components into a seamless integrated care system. It focuses on agencies' on-scene care, bringing to the forefront the collaboration and contributions of prehospital providers.

"Volusia County EMS is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our dedication to providing optimal care for heart attack and stroke patients," said Emergency Services Director Jim Judge. "We combine the latest advances in patient transportation and medical care with the tried-and-true traditions of compassion, service, and integrity. We provide a high level of care using an experienced and dedicated staff along with the latest innovations in EMS technology available today."

Volusia County EMS is a county-operated emergency transportation agency that receives 70,000 calls for service each year and transports 54,000 patients to area hospitals. Its team includes highly trained paramedics, emergency medical technicians, ambulance supply technicians, and support staff.

Photo caption: Volusia County Paramedic Shauna Beres and Emergency Medical Technician James demonstrate cardiac care protocols.