​Good afternoon to all West Virginia EMS providers,
As we reflect on the first two and a half years of our new administration, I want to take a moment to share our progress and the exciting direction we are headed. Thanks to your dedication and support, we've made significant strides in streamlining the certification and recertification process for our providers. Although there are still a few kinks to work out, please know that we are diligently addressing these issues to ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved.
At the recent Connect conference, we focused on learning more about the Imagetrend system and the ongoing enhancements to our office operations. I am pleased to announce that we are now fully staffed and ready to support our EMS community in West Virginia. We have collaborated with legislators to secure a Treatment in Place protocol and an Alternative Destination Protocol, improving care options for our patients. Additionally, we've updated both the format and content of our protocols to encourage critical thinking among our providers.
We are also proud to develop new programs, including ventilator use in emergency situations and the delivery of whole blood by ground units. These initiatives aim to bolster our emergency response capabilities and enhance patient outcomes. Furthermore, we recognize the importance of mental health for our first responders. We are making strides toward providing the necessary resources to support your mental well-being, and we appreciate your patience as we finalize these important initiatives.
Dr. Martin, our State Medical Director, has been instrumental in advancing state protocols, working closely with EMSAC and MPCC. The office is working with the EMS Coalition and EMSAC to ensure a secure future for EMS in West Virginia. We are working diligently with command centers to develop a unified command system across five key locations, enhancing our coordination and response capabilities.
The Office of Emergency Medical Services is genuinely excited about the future of emergency services in our state. Your hard work and dedication to the communities we serve does not go unnoticed. Please continue to stay safe, keep up the fantastic work, and know that together, we are making a difference.