Stratford EMS Celebrates National EMS Week

“Improving Outcomes, Together”

Every year during National EMS Week, communities across the nation recognize the dedicated professionals who respond to medical emergencies around the clock. In Stratford, our EMS team continues this mission with compassion, professionalism, innovation and a strong commitment to public service. 2027 will mark Stratford EMS’ 50^th year providing this kind of service to the community and we have always worked to “Improve Outcomes, Together”.

This year, the theme for EMS week is, “Improving Outcomes, Together”. This theme reflects the mission and culture of Stratford EMS (SEMS). When people think about EMS, they usually only think about ambulances transporting patients to the hospital. In fact, EMS is much more than that. EMS includes collaborating with hospitals, dispatchers, police officers, firefighters, public health partners and the community itself. It is that collaboration, that ensures a healthy and mature EMS system.

Stratford EMS is comprised of over 100 personnel, including approximately 60 paid professionals, 37 volunteers and 12-15 explorers and support staff. Together, we respond to over 8500 calls a year. SEMS providers include Emergency Medical Responders (EMR), Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) and Licensed Paramedics. All are extensively trained in all aspects of prehospital emergency medicine, disaster response and critical incident operations. Our third-service, municipal EMS model provides a single mission focus, ensuring our efforts remain dedicated and undivided.

SEMS values diversity and experience within its workforce. Our team includes providers from various backgrounds, ethnic and religious views and experience ranging from newly certified EMRs and EMT’s to paramedics and leaders with decades of field and operational service. Many SEMS providers hold leadership roles regionally and statewide in EMS education, advocacy, emergency preparedness and more!

In recent years, SEMS has found ways to modernized and expanded its capabilities despite the significant operational and financial challenges facing EMS systems nationwide. Since the COVID pandemic, EMS agencies have experienced, increased call volumes, workforce shortages, rising healthcare demands and costs, and decreasing federal reimbursements while public expectations continually evolve. SEMS remain committed to meeting those challenges while providing high-quality care to Stratford residents and visitors. This commitment also requires trained, and credentialed leadership capable of managing EMS systems and addressing ongoing reductions in federal reimbursements.

SEMS is proud of our prehospital whole blood program in partnership with Bridgeport Hospital which enables blood transfusions in the field during major trauma or bleeding emergencies. We have expanded our community outreach initiatives, enhanced staff development and training, modernized equipment and operational systems for safety and continued collaboration with local healthcare partners.

SEMS places a great deal of emphasis on workforce wellness and organizational culture. EMS professionals routinely face high-stress and emotionally challenging situations, making peer support, resiliency, teamwork and mental health resources essential. Stratford EMS leadership continues to prioritize staff wellbeing while fostering professionalism, accountability and support.

Community engagement remains a major priority for SEMS. Through public education events like standbys and our open house, training programs and even articles like this one, we continue to strengthen our relationship with the community.

A key focus for SEMS is developing the next generation or EMS providers and leaders. The SEMS Explorer Post and EMT Certification course offers young people mentorship, education and hands-on experience in EMS operations. Many current EMS professionals began as volunteers or explorers at SEMS and we are committed to continuing this pipeline. Additionally, EMS leaders have benefitted from SEMS leadership training. And serve in various roles throughout the region, state and even nationally. Many of our staff also serve as EMS-Instructors for our EMT program and local Paramedic programs.

This week both SEMS and our local hospitals are offering fun and creative recognition for our staff including awards, gifts, food and activities. During EMS week, SEMS encourages residents to take a moment to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made on a daily basis by SEMS providers and their families. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting community events and training to improve care, EMS personnel remain committed to serving Stratford with pride and professionalism.

The work of EMS often happens quietly and behind the scenes, but it’s work is essential and it’s impact is felt throughout the community every single day.

On behalf of SEMS, we want to thank the community for it’s continued support, trust and partnership as we work toward “Improving Outcomes, Together”.

For more information about Stratford EMS, it’s community programs, training opportunities, or EMS career pathways, please visit Stratfordems.org

National EMS Week Information