Galveston EMS Earns
Provider of the Year Award

La Marque – The Galveston Emergency Medical Services (EMS) received the 2004 Private/Public EMS Provider of the Year Award from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The award was presented Tuesday, November 23rd at the Texas EMS Conference held in Austin. DSHS is the state agency that provides oversight for emergency medical services throughout Texas. The award recognizes the “ground or air organization that took a leadership role in EMS public education and training.” This honor marks the first time that Galveston EMS has been recognized at a state level for it superior performance.

Galveston EMS Assistant Chief Thomas Leigh attending the conference accepted the award on behalf of the whole department. Leigh says, “Receiving congratulations from more than 2,000 EMS responders from across Texas was a very special moment. We have more than 30 years of experience providing EMS services to the citizens of Galveston and are honored to receive this award. I would also like to thank our Medical Director, Dr. Russell K. Miller, for his guidance through the years.”

During the presentation of the award state officials gave examples of service areas where Galveston EMS has excelled. In particular they were recognized for the introduction of innovative patient care procedures now used throughout the nation. Also recognized was the service’s proactive On the Job Injury prevention program which is important in a city like Galveston where many calls involve stairways.

Galveston EMS serves a unique community and works continually to meet the needs of local residents and tourists. EMS management meets challenges by providing services during events such as Mardi Gras, and Beach Party Weekend. They also prepare for the possibility of natural and manmade disasters by participating in classes and drills.

In recent years with an expansion in the tourist industry and development on the island Galveston EMS has seen a steady increase in the number of emergency calls received with several new service records having been set. Galveston EMS along with officials of the Galveston County Health District and the City of Galveston are continually planning to meet the growing demand for EMS services.

“We are very proud of the Galveston EMS and the statewide recognition received,” says Dr. Mark Guidry, Chief Executive Officer for the Galveston County Health District. “We have long known that EMS staff provides award winning service to Galveston residents and greatly appreciate the Department of State Health Services for recognizing this fact.”

For More Information Contact:
Kurt Koopmann
Public Information Officer
Galveston County Health District
(409) 938-2211
kkoopman@gchd.org