Mount Nittany Health and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) are pleased to recognize May 21 – 27, 2023, as National EMS Week. This year’s theme is “Where Emergency Care Begins,” highlighting the crucial role emergency responder’s play in providing critical care to patients in need. It is an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for their efforts in serving our organization and community.
Emergency responders are often the first ones on the scene, trained to assist in medical crisis situations. They play a vital role in providing instantaneous care to individuals facing medical emergencies, accidents, and traumatic events. These dedicated professionals are trained to assess and stabilize patients on the scene, administering life-saving interventions, and initiating necessary treatments. They possess the skills, knowledge, and compassion necessary to make a significant difference in the lives of those who require immediate medical care. They also help provide patient transportation to different facilities for those requiring additional medical care.
To honor and thank emergency responders from Centre County and the surrounding area, Mount Nittany Health’s EMS team organized and executed the much loved annual EMS pancake breakfast on Wednesday, May 24th. During the breakfast, local first responder units from Centre LifeLink EMS, Penn State EMS, Moshannon Valley EMS, Bellefonte EMS, and Geisinger Life Flight enjoyed a delicious meal of pancakes, eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, juice, and coffee. Aaron Rhone, Emergency Services Director, Pennsylvania Department of Health, also attended the event, celebrating the area’s dedicated first responders. The breakfast had a wonderful turnout with nearly 75 first responders joining in on the fun. Although Mount Nittany Health began the National EMS Week pancake breakfast tradition in 2014, it was the team’s first time hosting it since 2019, and everyone was overjoyed to see its return.
“I would like to express my sincerest appreciation to the dedicated EMS staff at Mount Nittany Health, and to all first responders in the region,” said Rich Kelley, NREMT-P, Manager, Emergency Services. “Your commitment to excellence is inspiring, and I am so grateful for all you do for our organization and the greater Centre region.”
Please join us in applauding our incredible team of emergency services professionals. This week and every week, we are so grateful for the compassionate care they provide, and for contributing to our mission of “Healthier people, stronger community.”