| Since its founding in 2000, Westwood EMS has grown from a single ambulance answering fewer than 500 calls into a multi‑station, advanced life support agency serving thousands of residents across our region. What began as a small, dedicated team has evolved into a comprehensive emergency medical service operating four stations, three transport ambulances, and two chase medic units, responding to more than 7,500 medical emergencies each year.
This growth reflects more than increased call volume—it represents the deep partnerships built over 26 years with local, county, and state officials; healthcare systems; 911 dispatchers; community members; and our mutual‑aid agencies. Together, these relationships have strengthened our ability to deliver high‑quality, life‑saving care when it matters most.
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Honoring EMS Week: May 17–23, 2026
National EMS Week, celebrated May 17–23, 2026, marks the 52nd annual observance honoring the nation’s EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, and out‑of‑hospital clinicians. This year’s theme—“Improving Outcomes, Together”—highlights the essential collaboration across EMS, 911 communications, public health, fire service, law enforcement, and healthcare teams.
The theme also underscores the growing role of innovation in prehospital medicine. National EMS Week materials emphasize advancements such as prehospital blood transfusion, early stroke recognition, and evolving models of care that improve survival long before a patient reaches the hospital.
Across the country, EMS agencies are encouraged to engage their communities through education, outreach, and events—including blood drives that support the life‑saving interventions highlighted this year.
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Westwood EMS: A Commitment to Progress
At Westwood EMS, “Improving Outcomes, Together” is more than a theme—it is the foundation of our mission.
Our success is rooted in collaboration. Every improved patient outcome reflects the coordinated efforts of:
• 911 dispatchers who provide critical pre‑arrival instructions
• EMTs and paramedics delivering advanced life support
• Fire and rescue partners assisting on complex scenes
• Local hospitals and specialty centers receiving and continuing care
• Mutual‑aid agencies ensuring seamless regional coverage
• Community members who support and trust our work
These partnerships ensure that every call—whether a medical emergency, trauma, or community health need—is met with a unified, skilled response.
As EMS evolves nationally, Westwood EMS continues to adopt new practices and technologies that enhance patient care. From improved cardiac arrest management to expanded ALS capabilities, our clinicians train continuously to stay ahead of emerging standards in prehospital medicine.
Behind every response is a team of highly trained professionals who dedicate thousands of hours to education, certification, and continuing medical training. EMS Week is a time to recognize their resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving others.
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A Message to Our Community
As we celebrate EMS Week 2026, we honor the EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, and support staff who stand ready 24/7 to protect the health and safety of our community. We also extend our gratitude to the partners, agencies, and residents who make our mission possible.
Together, we continue to improve outcomes—one call at a time. |
