Recognizing the skill, compassion and commitment of our EMS teams

As AdventHealth's Rocky Mountain Region celebrates EMS Week May 17-23, 2026, we recognize the commitment, expertise and compassion demonstrated every day by EMS professionals.

From the first 911 call through emergency treatment, EMS clinicians play a critical role in delivering timely, lifesaving care. AdventHealth is proud to partner with EMS agencies throughout the region to support coordinated care and improved patient outcomes.

“Our EMS partners care for some of the sickest patients in our communities, and the treatment they provide before a patient ever reaches the hospital often has a direct impact on outcomes,” said Colleen Decker, Regional Executive Director of Emergency Services and Trauma Strategy. “Their assessment, interventions and communication during transport help set our emergency teams up for success from the moment the patient arrives.”

EMS clinicians routinely provide advanced care in unpredictable environments, often relying on limited equipment, rapid decision-making and extensive clinical training.

“As an ER nurse, I have always been impressed by how much EMTs and paramedics accomplish with limited resources and in unpredictable environments,” Decker said. “EMS clinicians rely on the equipment on their rig, their training and their critical thinking to deliver lifesaving care.”

David Sanko, Regional EMS Coordinator, emphasized the essential role EMS professionals play across the continuum of care.

“Every decision paramedics make directly impacts whole-person care,” Sanko said. “These prehospital providers are highly versatile and can adapt to any situation.”

Sanko added that AdventHealth’s collaboration with EMS agencies extends beyond emergency response.

“This partnership with EMS is essential to delivering seamless, high-quality care from the patient’s first point of contact through definitive treatment,” Sanko said. “Strong collaboration improves patient outcomes and strengthens the overall resilience of the healthcare system.”

Throughout EMS Week, AdventHealth's Rocky Mountain Region extends its gratitude to EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers and EMS leaders for their service.

“Thank you for the incredible work you do every day for our patients and communities,” Decker said. “We are proud to call you our partners, and we deeply appreciate the skill, compassion and commitment you bring to every call.”