Susquehanna Regional EMS Recognized With Prestigious, National Award

October 1, 2025

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – Susquehanna Regional EMS (SREMS) has been selected by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) as the recipient of the 2025 Dick Ferneau Career EMS Service of the Year Award, one of the highest national honors in emergency medical services. The award recognizes organizations that exemplify outstanding clinical care, innovation, and commitment to the communities they serve.

“This honor reflects the dedication of every member of our team who works tirelessly to provide exceptional care to our community,” said Tony Bixby, director, UPMC Prehospital Services in North Central Pa., and chief, SREMS. “We are proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to advancing emergency medical services, especially across our mostly rural territory, and improving outcomes for the patients we serve.”

Covering a 3,000-square-mile region across four counties, SREMS is recognized nationally as a model of modern EMS. Its team of more than 170 EMTs, paramedics, and staff respond to over 20,000 calls each year with a fleet of 30 vehicles, delivering lifesaving care in both 911 emergencies and interfacility transfers.

“We're all aware of the challenges our rural communities are navigating, and in a region as vast and rural as ours, quality EMS is not just critical, it's lifesaving," said Patti Jackson-Gehris, market president, UPMC in North Central Pa., and president, UPMC Williamsport. "SREMS embodies the highest standards of care, expertise, and dedication, often delivering advanced life support in the most challenging conditions. Being recognized with the NAEMT’s National EMS Award of Excellence is a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to our communities. We are incredibly proud of the team and grateful for the vital role they play in safeguarding the health and lives of our residents every single day.”

From advancing trauma, cardiac, and sepsis treatment to leading national research such as the Department of Defense–funded Prehospital Airway Control Trial, SREMS is at the forefront of clinical excellence. Their efforts strengthen community readiness by donating more than 100 AEDs, expanding PulsePoint alerts across three counties, training residents in lifesaving skills through Minutes Matter, and pioneering real-time patient tracking systems showcased at the Little League Baseball World Series. Through EMT and paramedic intern programs, career ladders, and robust mental health support, SREMS invests in workforce development to ensure both the community and its caregivers have the resources needed to thrive.

Beyond daily operations, SREMS has consistently stepped into leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. Its leaders serve on county and regional EMS councils, the Pennsylvania Emergency Health and Services Council, the Ambulance Association of Pennsylvania Board of Directors, and the American Trauma Society’s Pennsylvania Division. SREMS leaders co-chair the Pennsylvania Central Region Healthcare Coalition EMS Committee, participate in the NAEMT Lighthouse Leadership Program, and advocate on Capitol Hill to ensure rural voices are heard in shaping EMS policy.

Representatives from SREMS will accept the award onstage at the EMS World Expo, in Indianapolis, and will also be recognized at the NAEMT General Membership Meeting and Awards Presentation this October.