The American Heart Association (AHA) has announced the City of Richardson Fire Department as a gold-level recipient of its 2023 Mission: Lifeline® EMS Recognition award. The program acknowledges emergency medical service organizations for their outstanding efforts in improving systems of care for patients experiencing severe heart attacks or strokes. By implementing proven guidelines and protocols, Richardson EMS has demonstrated its exceptional skill and commitment to optimizing patient outcomes and reducing mortality rates in cardiac emergencies of patients experiencing a severe heart attack known as a STEMI (ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction).
“We are incredibly proud of the Richardson EMS team for their exceptional work and dedication to providing life-saving care,” said Richardson City Manager Don Magner. “This recognition highlights our commitment to the well-being and safety of our community, and the efforts of our EMS teams are truly commendable and a testament to the high standards of care we strive for in Richardson.”
The Mission: Lifeline® EMS Recognition acknowledges the crucial role EMS teams play in caring for patients experiencing life-threatening cardiac events. By providing pre-hospital care that aligns with the latest clinical guidelines, EMS providers significantly improve patient outcomes and save lives. Richardson EMS has demonstrated its commitment to meeting and exceeding these guidelines through ongoing training, continuous quality improvement, and investments made in mobile medical technology.
“Our Fire Department’s dedicated men and women are committed to attaining excellence on a national level, and the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program is important recognition of our work to achieve that goal,” said Richardson Fire Department Chief Curtis Poovey. “We are honored to be acknowledged for our dedication and achievements in emergency medical care for STEMI patients and will continue to enhance our methods to better serve our community.”
To qualify for the Gold Award, an EMS provider must treat at least eight STEMI patients and maintain an annual aggregate minimum compliance score of 75 percent for each patient. This marks the 8th year for the Richardson Fire Department to receive AHA recognition.
