By Jerry Biggart, Chairman, Wisconsin EMS Advisory Board
The members of the Governor appointed EMS Advisory Board were shocked to learn the Board was slated for elimination due to being inactive for the last year. The record reflected that we met and worked diligently at every meeting that was scheduled. On behalf of the Board I formally communicated with Department of Health Services, Department of Administration, and the Governor’s Office, in addition to the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin, Professional Ambulance Association of Wisconsin, and Wisconsin EMS Association leadership sending a unified message that elimination of the EMS Board would be detrimental to the State, its citizens, and the EMS stakeholders.
I believe that the Governor and the citizens can be proud of the diversity, effectiveness, dedication, unimpeachable integrity, and expert consultation provided by the EMS Board volunteers that he has appointed. The EMS Board applauds the Governor for removing the recommendation to eliminate the Board prior to the initial budget being released. The Board will seek modifications with the Department of Health to ensure that this debate isn’t repeated moving forward.
This coordinated effort is an example, from a growing list of examples, where EMS advocates representing all EMS providers in Wisconsin, worked together with one unified voice. EMS stakeholder representation is stronger than it’s ever been, and with this renewed spirit of cooperation we will continue to achieve great things.
