Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolina is using National EMS Week to pause and thank the emergency medical workers who answer some of the state’s most urgent calls, often before most people even know a crisis has begun.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health is recognizing EMS personnel during National EMS Week, which runs from May 17 through May 23. The observance highlights the first responders, emergency medical technicians and paramedics who provide lifesaving care across communities every day, whether they are responding to medical emergencies, severe weather, disasters or other dangerous situations.
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Across South Carolina, the emergency response network is large and constantly active. DPH said the state has 289 EMS agencies and more than 15,700 emergency personnel ready to serve residents when help is needed. In 2025 alone, EMS agencies across the state handled 1,689,708 calls.
“EMS personnel play a crucial role in communities across the state, delivering swift care to patients in need,” said Gwendolyn Thompson, DPH deputy director of Healthcare Quality.
“While EMS Week offers us an opportunity to thank these crucial providers for their work, DPH staff work year-round to offer oversight and support to the EMS community to continue their efforts to protect the health and safety of people in South Carolina.”
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That work does not end with recognition. DPH’s EMS and Trauma Section helps guide the system behind the response. The section develops and monitors statewide EMS protocols, designates trauma centers and certifies EMTs and paramedics. The agency also works with the South Carolina EMS Association and local government agencies that manage countywide and citywide EMS services.
DPH also used the week to spotlight EMS for Children Day, observed on Wednesday, which focuses on the special care needs of pediatric patients. Through the South Carolina EMS for Children program, DPH supports efforts to improve emergency care for children, including the voluntary “Peds Ready Recognition” Program.
“In the past year, seven additional EMS agencies have earned Peds Ready Recognition, ensuring that more children in South Carolina will receive safe and effective prehospital care,” said Sable Land, EMS for Children Program Coordinator.
“We encourage EMS agencies to be Peds Ready to help support high-quality pediatric emergency care that addresses the unique medical needs of children and improves outcomes for families across our state.”
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There are now 24 Peds Ready EMS agencies in South Carolina. To receive the recognition, agencies must meet added pediatric-care standards, including having a Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator, additional pediatric supplies, safe transport policies, annual pediatric training, pediatric case reviews, a quality assurance review and community outreach.
DPH said anyone interested in becoming an EMT or paramedic should contact a local EMS office. More information is available through DPH’s EMS and Trauma webpage and the South Carolina EMS Association at scemsa.org.
