LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Thanks to our first responders

May 19-25 is National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week. It is a time designed to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions EMS professionals make to our community.
Odessa Fire Rescue answers the call day or night regardless of the weather or conditions, many of which can be dangerous and emotionally challenging. It’s easy to forget how difficult this work can be, but our Dispatchers, First Responders, Firefighters, EMTs and Paramedics deliver without fail day in and day out.
In addition to our EMS providers at Odessa Fire Rescue, we have multiple other EMS first responders throughout the Permian Basin who also serve our community and make a difference in patients’ lives. Members of emergency medical services teams, whether career or volunteer, public or private, engage in countless hours of specialized training and ongoing continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills.
As a hospital president, I can say with confidence that without our dedicated EMS partners, my hospital staff, and certainly our patients, would truly be at a loss.
Please join with me in thanking our EMS teams for the exceptional work they do.