Awards and Recognition

Recent research studies have found that one of the top issues of concern among EMS practitioners is the perceived lack of respect and recognition for their work among the general public, others in the medical profession and within the government. NAEMT understands this concern and in response, a large percentage of our resources go directly towards increasing respect and recognition for the work of EMS practitioners. Specific activities include:

• Recognition of the contributions to the profession through awards, scholarships, and our education programs that promote superior patient care.
• Representation in Washington on the issues that impact the EMS work environment and the ability of EMS practitioners to effectively serve their patients. NAEMT is one of the four sponsoring organizations of Advocates for EMS, and conducts national advocacy efforts through AEMS and our Advocacy Committee.
• Sponsorship of EMS research to help solve the problems our members encounter every day on the job.
• Promoting respect and appreciation for the EMS profession and individual practitioner through public awareness campaigns, collaboration with other EMS organizations and participation in government initiatives. NAEMT has established formal relationships with over 60 EMS organizations. Our assigned representatives to these organizations provide ongoing outreach and information exchange. NAEMT is now regularly invited to participate in the meetings of the Department of Homeland Security, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the Institute of Medicine, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Department of Health and Human Services, among others. 

This section includes information about our National Awards Program, ways that local EMS systems can gain recognition for the EMS profession and the work carried out by EMS practitioners in their communities, and information about EMS Honor Guards around the country.