Episode 52 | International Education: Insights from Germany and Brazil. In this edition of NAEMT Radio,
Dr. Hans-Martin Grusnick, a paramedic turned intensivist in Germany, outlines the German EMS model and how NAEMT courses have enhanced clinical pathways and decision-making in the field.
Dr. Rodrigo Vaz from Brazil, a trauma surgeon and president of the Brazilian Committee on Trauma, shares how EMS operates in Brazil’s vast and diverse geography, as well as the growing role of NAEMT education. Both guests underscore the power of NAEMT partnerships to unify global EMS professionals under common standards, improved patient outcomes, and international collaboration.
Episode 51 | Raising the Bar on EMS Education. In this edition, Troy Tuke, NAEMT Board Secretary, EMS educator, and NAEMT representative to the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the EMS Professions (CoAEMSP or COA) dives into accreditation for EMS education: how it works; why it matters; and what the benefits are for students, programs, and EMS community. Also, how new programs get accredited and how COA supports continuous improvement and excellence in paramedic education.
Episode 50 | 50 Years of Progress, 50 Episodes of Perspective. In this landmark episode, we highlight two milestones: the 50th episode of NAEMT Radio and the 50th anniversary of NAEMT. President-elect Rob Luckritz and past president Dennis Rowe chronicle NAEMT’s evolution from its formation in 1975 to its current role as the unified voice of EMS professionals across the nation. NAEMT’s history, from the establishment of national training standards, to the development of programs like PHTLS and TECC, to the launch of advocacy efforts are discussed.
Episode 49 | Criminalizing Clinical Judgment: EMS Legal Risks and the Just Culture Response. “This statement was really meant to give prosecutors and judges serious food for thought on whether it’s appropriate to bring criminal charges in cases where standards of care are the issue,” Doug Wolfberg. In this compelling edition, EMS attorney Doug Wolfberg of Page, Wolfberg & Wirth discusses one of the most pressing and controversial issues in EMS today – the criminalization of medical error. Prompted by recent high-profile cases where EMS clinicians have faced charges ranging from negligent homicide to murder for clinical decisions made in the field, the discussion takes a deep dive into the joint position statement on criminal liability for deviations from EMS clinical standards. Drafted by Doug and his team, and endorsed by leading national EMS organizations, the statement provides guiding principles for prosecutors and judges, and advocates for a clearer distinction between human error and intentional misconduct.
Together, they explore the legal, ethical, and operational implications of this trend, and the chilling effect it may have on reporting errors, clinician retention, and fostering a culture of safety. With rich insights into what EMS leaders, field providers, and policymakers can do to protect both patients and professionals, this episode offers critical guidance on maintaining a just culture — where errors are learned from, not punished. Tune in for practical advice, poignant real-world examples, and a discussion that could shape the legal future of EMS care in America.
Related articles by Rob Lawrence and Doug Wolfberg:
Episode 48 | In this episode, our guests highlight the importance of EMS On The Hill Day in bringing together EMS professionals, elected officials, and healthcare leaders to address key industry challenges. NAEMT President Chris Way shares his optimism about the warm reception from lawmakers, emphasizing that this year, the EMS community is not only presenting problems but also offering solutions, particularly in terms of cost savings and efficiency with bills such as the Treatment in Place (TIP) and Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH). Chief Julius Jackson, David Blevins, Elise Mills, Chris Kescoli, and Josh Ellison also offer insights.
Episode 47 | In this episode of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence is joined by Regina Crawford, Scott Willits, and Justin Duncan as they discuss preparations for their pre-conference session prior to EMS on the Hill 2025. Their pre-conference session, "Empowering EMS with Data: From Insights to Action," will offer practical guidance on how to leverage data for legislative advocacy. Attendees will engage in interactive exercises, including role-playing to practice how to present their data in ways that are impactful for policymakers. The goal is to help EMS professionals craft data-driven stories that effectively highlight the needs of their communities and demonstrate actionable solutions.