Virginia Beach EMS Honors its Dedicated Members During National EMS Week

National EMS Week, May 18-24, recognizes the emergency medical services profession and its importance in protecting the safety and health of the public. Virginia Beach EMS (VBEMS) leadership has thoughtfully curated a variety of activities as a show of appreciation and support for volunteer and career members.   

This year’s national theme— “We Care. For Everyone.” — is an appropriate sentiment for this department, because its core values include community and caring for all with compassion, respect and kindness.  

Serving Virginia Beach  

Every year, EMS calls for service increase, and our providers continue to excel in providing compassionate care to patients every day. 

• 56,803 total calls for service in 2024, a 4.6% increase.  
• 39,614 ambulance transports to hospitals, a 4.1% increase.  
• 11,450 Advanced Life Support (ALS) Transports.   
• 28,164 Basic Life Support (BLS) Transports.   

“The many countless hours of passionate service are the foundation of our department,” said EMS Chief Jason Stroud. “More than 9,000 providers have come through our system over the years. I appreciate having been able to learn from so many members — past and present — and to have followed and served alongside so many as well.”  

Weeklong Activities  

This year, Jesalyn Moore, EMS health and wellness manager, organized a webinar series during EMS Week that gives a daily opportunity for providers to learn a new topic related to self-care, health and wellness. The series features experts discussing stress management, substance abuse in first responders, financial wellbeing and healthy eating. Members had the opportunity to attend the webinar virtually or in person at EMS headquarters. 

Moore has been with the department for two months and has already established a wellness program that is making an impact by using discreet, mobile support services that make care accessible to providers in real time.  

Let’s Connect 

Residents are encouraged to follow VBEMS on its social channels to see the photos and stories posted during EMS Week: Facebook  |  Instagram  |  X (Twitter) 

Spread the Word   

Residents interested in joining our system do not need to have a medical background. In fact, that’s what makes VBEMS unique — its members come from all backgrounds and professions. EMS Week is another way for the department to spread the word about how volunteer and career members are the strength of our system.  

• If you’re ready to answer the call and volunteer, visit ems.virginiabeach.gov/volunteer to start your application.  
• For information about career opportunities, visit ems.virginiabeach.gov/careers.  

EMS is an award-winning third-service agency that answers more than 56,000 calls for service annually. Through VB Rescue, EMS uses a combined career-volunteer workforce and was named a 2024 American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline Gold EMS Agency. Learn more about EMS by visiting ems.virginiabeach.gov. You can also contact Virginia Beach EMS at vbems@vbgov.com. 

• Virginia Beach EMS