NAEMT Radio

Ep 56. NAEMT Radio – Stronger Together: Building National–State EMS Unity with Henry Lewis

In this special South Carolina–flavored December edition of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence sits down with Henry Lewis, one of EMS’s most influential association leaders, to explore how national and state EMS partnerships are evolving in real time.
Broadcast from Washington, D.C., just after the American Ambulance Association board meeting, Rob and Henry dig into how local, state, and national EMS bodies can better align, advocate, and “hunt as a pack” to advance the profession. Henry, who uniquely straddles leadership roles in both NAEMT and the American Ambulance Association, explains why unified messaging across all levels of EMS is now essential—and how state associations are the critical connective tissue.
This episode also includes a holiday message from NAEMT President Chris Way, reflections on the year ahead, and a forward look at the First EMS Association Summit, taking place in February in Kansas City.
Resources
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join
EMS Association Summit February 17-19 Kansas City: https://attendeas.net/
 

Ep 55. NAEMT Radio – NAEMT at 50: Honoring the Past, Building the Future with President Chris Way

In this milestone episode of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence welcomes NAEMT President Chris Way for a timely conversation reflecting on the association’s 50th anniversary celebrations in Indianapolis—and looking ahead to the next 50 years. President Way shares highlights from the organization’s new mission, vision, and three strategic pillars—advocacy, membership, and education—designed to shape the future of EMS. He also discusses the inclusive and collaborative process that brought the board, members, and partner organizations together to define a clear path forward. The pair explore NAEMT’s growing global reach, its expanding network of international partners, and the success of programs like the Lighthouse Leadership initiative, which continues to develop the next generation of EMS leaders.
The discussion then turns to federal advocacy and legislative momentum, as President Way provides updates following the government’s reopening and details NAEMT’s push for permanent funding solutions, support for treatment in place (TIP) and mobile integrated healthcare (MIH), and the transition of military medics to civilian EMS roles.
Looking ahead, the conversation previews EMS on the Hill Day 2026 (March 25–26), which promises to be the largest yet, featuring broad participation from NAEMSP, ACEP, ACS, IAFC, SOMA, and other key partners. The episode closes with a preview of NAEMT’s new integrated IT and membership system, a shout-out to upcoming state association collaboration meetings in Kansas City, and a Thanksgiving message from President Way encouraging EMS professionals to pause, reflect, and recharge amid the season.
Resources
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 54. NAEMT Radio – "National Award Winners Edition – Dr. Meg Marino Medical Director of the Year

In this second installment of our 2025 NAEMT National Award Winners series, we highlight the physician whose leadership and vision have set a benchmark for EMS nationwide. Dr. Meg Marino, Medical Director of New Orleans EMS, has been named the 2025 NAEMT Medical Director of the Year. From her early career in pediatrics to her current role guiding one of the nation’s most dynamic EMS systems, Dr. Marino has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead with both compassion and clinical excellence. Her dedication to education, protocol innovation, and hands-on mentorship has not only strengthened New Orleans EMS but also influenced best practices across the country.
In this episode, Dr. Marino reflects on her journey, from training EMS providers in pediatric care to leading her department through the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic and mass casualty incidents. She discusses the clinical innovations she’s most proud of, including pioneering work in prehospital blood programs, airway research, and ultrasound. Most importantly, she shares her philosophy of being present—in the streets with her teams—on both their best and hardest days. This conversation captures the spirit of a medical director who is not only advancing EMS medicine but also inspiring the next generation of providers through trust, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to patient care.
Memorable Quotes
"I want to be in the streets with my teams on the best days and on the hard days."
"By improving the quality of education that EMS providers receive, I can not only help the patient in front of me, but all of the patients that those EMS providers touch."
"It’s easy to be a progressive medical director and let your team do a whole lot when you’ve got a lot of trust in your team."
Resources
NAEMT Annual Meeting 2025 Schedule:  https://naemt.org/events/annual-meeting/2025-schedule
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 53. NAEMT Radio – Meet the 2025 NAEMT Paramedic and Community Paramedic of the Year

In this special edition of NAEMT Radio, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable professionals recognized with our highest honors at the upcoming NAEMT Annual Meeting and EMS World Expo in Indianapolis. As NAEMT celebrates its 50th anniversary, we pause to honor those who embody the very best of EMS—clinicians whose compassion, resilience, and innovation not only elevate patient care but also inspire their peers across the nation. This episode begins our Winners Series, bringing you closer to the stories of those whose work has left a lasting mark on their communities.
Joining us first is Jason Wyland, the 2025 NAEMT Paramedic of the Year Award, sponsored by Velico, whose decades of service with Aspirus Medevac Air One reflect both clinical excellence and steadfast dedication, even in the face of personal health challenges. Following Jason, we meet Amber Price, the 2025 NAEMT-NAMIHP Community Paramedic of the Year Award, sponsored by the National Association of Mobile Integrated Healthcare Providers NAEMT Community Paramedic of the Year from Austin-Travis County EMS, whose pioneering programs remove barriers for vulnerable populations and redefine what community paramedicine can achieve. Together, their journeys remind us that EMS is about more than responding to calls—it’s about compassion, advocacy, and advancing care for every patient, everywhere.
Memorable Quotes
"I always go back to, you know, how do I want to be treated or how do I want my parents or my grandparents, you know, if they're alive or my children, how do you want them to be treated, you know, with the same compassion that you treat your patients with?" Jason Wyland
"Every decision that I make, I am making it for the client. What is best for the client. It doesn’t matter whose name is at the top of the page. What it matters is that the client gets their need met in the most efficient, trauma-informed, caring way." Amber Price
Resources
NAEMT Annual Meeting 2025 Schedule:  https://naemt.org/events/annual-meeting/2025-schedule
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join
What Three Words: https://what3words.com

Ep 52. NAEMT Radio – NAEMT Without Borders: Global Perspectives from International Partners

"Just let me say we are very honored in Germany to be partner of the NAEMT”  Dr. Hans-Martin Gusnick (Germany)"I'm really thankful for having the, I would say, the partnership, but also the friendship from the NAEMT people to make it better here" Dr. Rodrigo Vaz (Brazil)
In this special international edition of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence takes listeners on a global tour of EMS, speaking first with Dr. Hans-Martin Grusnick from Germany and then with Dr. Rodrigo Vaz from Brazil. Dr. Grusnick, an experienced paramedic-turned-intensivist, outlines the German EMS model, where ALS units and physician response cars work side-by-side, and explains how NAEMT courses such as PHTLS, AMLS, EPC, GEMS, and TCCC have enhanced clinical pathways and decision-making in the field. The conversation highlights the similarities in challenges faced across countries—rising call volumes, aging populations, and the constant need for system integration—and shows how NAEMT training continues to shape practice internationally.
From there, the program heads to South America, where Dr. Vaz, a trauma surgeon and president of the Brazilian Committee on Trauma, shares how EMS operates in Brazil’s vast and diverse geography—from urban centers to the Amazon, where boat ambulances and air evacuations are sometimes the only options. He discusses the predominance of public service delivery, the unique mix of Franco-German and Anglo-American models, and the growing role of NAEMT education, particularly PHTLS, with an emphasis on expanding TCCC, TECC, and First On The Scene training. Both guests underscore the power of NAEMT partnerships to unify global EMS professionals under common standards, improve patient outcomes, and foster international collaboration—proof that while EMS systems may differ, the mission to save lives is universal.
Resources
NAEMT Annual Meeting 2025 Schedule:  https://naemt.org/events/annual-meeting/2025-scheduleJoin the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 51. NAEMT Radio – Raising the Bar on EMS Education: Understanding Accreditation with COA and guest Troy Tuke

Ep 51. NAEMT Radio – Raising the Bar on EMS Education: Understanding Accreditation with COA and guest Troy TukeHosted by Rob Lawrence | Guest: Troy Tuke
In this edition of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence sits down with NAEMT Board Secretary and EMS educator Troy Tuke, who also serves as NAEMT’s representative to the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the EMS Professions—better known as CoAEMSP or simply COA.
Together, Rob and Troy take a deep dive into what accreditation really means for EMS education, how the process works, why it matters, and how it ultimately benefits students, programs, and the EMS profession as a whole. Troy also draws on his dual experience as an EMS leader and program director to walk listeners through how a new program gets accredited—from application to site visit—and how COA supports continuous improvement and excellence in paramedic education.
Key Topics Covered:
What COAEMSP does and why accreditation is vital for the EMS profession
The role of NAEMT in representing educators and practitioners at the national level
Troy’s journey from EMS Chief to Program Director and COA board member
How education standards are evolving with modern prehospital care, including ultrasound, video-assisted laryngoscopy, and mobile healthcare
The importance of national accreditation for student mobility, including testing eligibility and EMS Compact transferability
The future of EMS education and how programs can keep up with clinical innovation
How EMS leaders and educators can begin the process of getting their program accredited
Key Quotes from the Episode:
“Accreditation… helps ensure you get the quality education that meets all of the most recently studied best practices.” – Troy Tuke
“Going to an accredited program gives you upward mobility… it’s a nationally recognized certification.” – Troy Tuke
“We are clinicians. We’re not just drivers. We’re treating patients where they are.” – Rob Lawrence
“There’s a synergy at COA that can’t be overstated—everyone brings their best to the table.” – Troy Tuke
“We want to provide consistent, high-quality, repeatable education at every level.” – Troy Tuke
“When we work together, the power and the synergy are great. There’s not much we can’t solve.” – Troy Tuke
“It’s not about stopping you from starting a program—it’s about helping you succeed.” – Troy Tuke
 
Resources Discussed
COAEMSP Website: CoAEMSP – Committee on Accreditation for the EMS Professions – Credible education through accreditation
NAEMT Annual Meeting 2025 Schedule:  https://naemt.org/events/annual-meeting/2025-schedule
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 50. NAEMT Radio – 50 Years of Progress, 50 Episodes of Perspective

In this landmark 50th episode of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence marks not one, but two significant milestones: the 50th episode of the podcast and the 50th anniversary of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. Joined by president-elect Rob Luckritz and past president Dennis Rowe, this special episode chronicles NAEMT’s evolution from its grassroots formation in 1975 to its current role as the unified voice of EMS professionals across the nation. The conversation traces pivotal moments in the association’s history, from the establishment of national training standards under the guidance of Rocco Morando, to the development of programs like PHTLS and TECC, to the launch of advocacy efforts such as EMS on the Hill Day. Rowe offers rare insight into the association’s formative years, having lived its growth from the inside, while Luckritz shares how NAEMT became the engine of his leadership journey, moving from field EMS to national advocacy.
As the episode unfolds, the discussion shifts to the future of EMS and the next 50 years of NAEMT’s impact. Luckritz reflects on his early involvement as a PHTLS instructor and his commitment to expanding leadership development through the Lighthouse Program. The episode also addresses how EMS has transformed in response to national crises—from the post-9/11 redefinition of readiness, to Hurricane Katrina’s lessons in preparedness, to COVID-19’s proof that EMS is the backbone of public health response.
Together, the guests emphasize the importance of mentoring the next generation, expanding the profession beyond the ambulance, and aligning state and federal advocacy to drive sustainable change. It's a stirring conversation that honors EMS’s past while lighting the path forward—one where data, leadership, and collaboration shape the destiny of the EMS profession.
 Resources Discussed
NAEMT Annual Meeting 2025 Schedule: https://naemt.org/events/annual-meeting/2025-schedule
History of NAEMT: https://naemt.org/about-naemt/history-of-naemt
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep49. NAEMT Radio - Criminalizing Clinical Judgment: EMS Legal Risks and the Just Culture Response with Doug Wolfberg

“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 of NAEMT Radio, host Rob Lawrence is joined by nationally renowned EMS attorney Doug Wolfberg of Page, Wolfberg & Wirth to discuss 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, Rob and Doug take 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.
Resources Discussed
  Joint Position Statement on Criminal Liability in EMS: https://www.naemt.org/docs/default-source/advocacy-documents/positions/20241210---final-joint-position-statement-on-criminal-liability.pdf?sfvrsn=2d3fe93_1
  Related articles by Rob Lawrence and Doug Wolfberg:
Navigating criminal liability: Lessons from the Elijah McClain case (Rob Lawrence): Navigating criminal liability: Lessons from the Elijah McClain case
Malpractice or murder: When do EMS providers cross the line from negligence to a crime? (Doug Wolfberg): Malpractice or murder: EMTs charged with homicide in Moore case
  Learn more about Page, Wolfberg & Wirth: www.pwwemslaw.com
 
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 48. NAEMT Radio – 2025 EMS on the Hill Day Report and Commentary

In this edition of NAEMT Radio we offer an EMS on the Hill 2025 report and commentary.  Rob Lawrence reports live from Capitol Hill, Washington DC, where EMS leaders from across the nation gathered to advocate for crucial legislative changes affecting the EMS community.
In a ‘magazine style’, series of interviews we welcome eight guests and kick off with Chief Julius Jackson's remarks, highlighting the importance of EMS on the Hill Day in bringing together EMS professionals, elected officials, and healthcare leaders to address key industry challenges. 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 TIP Bill and NIH Bill promising significant federal savings.
We delve into the various advocacy points raised at the event, including support for Medicare reimbursement for EMS treatment in place, the Community Paramedicine Act, and the continuation of funding for the Siren Act to support rural EMS services. Rob also interviews several EMS professionals, including David Blevins, Elise Mills, Chris Kescoli, and Josh Ellison, offering insights on the importance of educating lawmakers and sharing real-life EMS challenges. The episode wraps up with a call to action for EMS professionals to continue supporting these efforts and to join the EMS caucus, with an eye toward the next EMS on the Hill Day in 2026.
 
Resources Discussed
NAEMT Advocacy Overview: Advocacy Overview
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join

Ep 47. NAEMT Radio – Empowering EMS with Data: From Insights to Action – Looking Forward to NAEMTs Pre EMSOTH Educational Workshop

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.
As the countdown to EMS on the Hill approaches, Regina, a seasoned EMS advocate, explains how to turn daily operational data into compelling stories that resonate with legislators, emphasizing the need for EMS leaders to be prepared to tell their stories at any time. Scott and Justin share insights on the value of building relationships with congressional staffers and preparing well-crafted "leave-behinds" to strengthen the case for EMS. The session promises to be an essential resource for those looking to improve their advocacy skills, enhance their understanding of data collection, and make a lasting impact on EMS policy. Join them on April 2nd, 2025, for an educational and interactive experience at the Hilton Arlington National Landing in Arlington, VA.
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 – 9 am–12 pm, Hilton Arlington National Landing in Arlington, VA (3.0 hours of CAPCE-accredited CE credit available)
Empowering EMS with Data: From Insights to Action 
Join us for an interactive conversation on how to build your agency’s EMS story with evidence-based data that can be presented to elected officials. This is not a sit-and-listen lecture; it’s planned to be interactive with an active, engaging discussion between attendees. Bring your local data, your findings, and your challenges to the table, share with others and combine into a systems-wide data package for presentation to elected officials and other EMS decision makers. We need a united front as an industry to drive change.   
This workshop will provide EMS leaders and stakeholders with the essential strategies and tools to effectively collect, analyze, and report operational data and quality metrics. Participants will learn how to leverage data to demonstrate the value and impact of their services to local, regional, state, and national stakeholders—including elected officials, funders, payers, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The session will cover strategies for aligning your data collection efforts with the services your agency currently provides, as well as the services you aim to expand or improve. We’ll explore how to craft compelling stories supported by clear, validated data that resonates with decision-makers. Whether you’re advocating for grant funding, enhancing clinical outcomes, or meeting quality benchmarks, the key to success is in presenting data that is not only insightful but also independently validated.  
Join us to turn your data into a powerful narrative that drives funding, improves clinical quality, and supports long-term EMS sustainability. Come prepared to role play and practice how to interact with elected officials and their staff.  At the conclusion of the workshop attendees will be able to:
Describe the importance of data collection and analysis for EMS operations and quality improvement. 
Identify strategies for aligning data collection efforts with agency goals and stakeholder expectations. 
Develop actionable plans using SWOT analysis and gap identification to enhance service delivery and reimbursement advocacy. 
Apply storytelling techniques to present data in a compelling manner to funders, payers, and policymakers. 
Build professional connections and engage stakeholders to support EMS initiatives. 
“Let us help you understand what you know and how to you use it to tell your EMS story from the local level to DC.” – Regina
“Do you feel like talking to politicians is like talking to a brick wall? Join the conversation and learn how to take down that wall by having a humanistic conversation on the evidence-based value of EMS.” – Scott
“We all collect data, but let’s discuss how to package it to work in favor of your EMS agency when in conversation with elected officials from your own back yard to the Ways & Means Committee in DC.” – Justin
Resources Discussed
EMS on the Hill Day: https://www.naemt.org/events/ems-on-the-hill-day
Join the NAEMT: https://www.naemt.org/join/join
Educational Workshop: https://naemt.org/events/ems-on-the-hill-day/educational-workshop
About our Guests / Workshop Faculty
Justin P. Duncan, BS, NRP, CCEMT-P, FP-C,
Justin Duncan is the President of the Missouri EMS Association, where he plays a pivotal role in advancing mobile healthcare across the state. In addition, Chief Duncan serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Washington County Ambulance District, a regional mobile healthcare provider in rural Missouri. His work as a leader in both state and national EMS initiatives extends to his roles as Chair of the Missouri State Advisory Council's EMS Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Sub-Committee and Chair of the Economics Committee of the National Association of EMTs. Chief Duncan is also a Subject Matter Expert for the National Rural Healthcare Association’s Government Affairs Committee. Known for his reputation as a “disruptor” in EMS and healthcare, he is dedicated to pushing for change and innovation within the industry. Above all, Chief Duncan is a servant leader, fiercely committed to supporting those on the front lines who care for the ill and injured.
Scott Willits
Scott Willits is a seasoned healthcare leader with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of emergency medical services (EMS). He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Western Oregon University and an Associate of Arts and Sciences in Paramedicine from Chemeketa Community College. These qualifications have equipped Willits with the scientific knowledge and clinical expertise necessary to excel in the EMS field.  Currently, Willits is pursuing a Master of Public Health, which he expects to complete in December 2024. This advanced degree is a testament to his commitment to continuous learning and his dedication to understanding the broader public health implications of EMS and healthcare delivery. His educational background not only reinforces his clinical capabilities but also provides him with a strategic understanding of public health, which is crucial for shaping future EMS policies and practices. In addition to his academic achievements, Willits holds several professional certifications that demonstrate his dedication to maintaining high standards in EMS. These certifications highlight Willits’s commitment to providing high-quality care and ensuring that he remains at the forefront of clinical excellence.
Regina Godette-Crawford
Regina Godette-Crawford joined EMS|MC in January 2016, bringing over 33 years of experience in EMS regulatory oversight and administration. Regina worked for the Office of EMS for over 22 years before retiring. Most recently, Regina sits on the Biden Harris Administration Senate Advisory Committee for Ground Ambulance & Patient Billing. She held the position of Regional Specialist, which included inspections, regional exams and technical assistance to EMS providers. Regina served as an advocate for EMS providers in the General Assembly to include grant funding for community paramedicine programs and other important legislative issues affecting EMS. At EMS|MC, Regina continues to serve as a strong advocate for EMS agencies across the nation, working in conjunction with other state EMS agencies on reimbursement matters and related topics. Regina holds a Bachelor of Science from East Carolina University as well as Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.