FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONNECTICUT EMS DIRECTOR NAMED NAEMT EMS ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR 2024
Connecticut – April 18, 2024 – The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) has named Michael A. Loiz, EMS Director from Stratford, Connecticut, as an EMS Advocate of the Year for 2024. This prestigious and national recognition is a testament to his outstanding work in advocating for CT EMS professionals and the patients they serve.
Mr. Loiz’s dedication and commitment to advocating for EMS and championing the interests of emergency medical service providers has not gone unnoticed. His tireless efforts have set a high standard for others in the industry to follow. Currently serving as the Secretary and Legislative Chair of the CT EMS Advisory Board (CEMSAB) and the NAEMT CT Advocacy Coordinator, Michael has championed issues related to responder safety, PTSD coverage for EMS providers and increasing reimbursements for EMS to name a few. He has also been a huge proponent of increasing legislative engagement at the provider level.
“Within its 169 cities and Towns, Connecticut boasts a diverse EMS system. While the system always has room for growth and development, I believe its diversity is one of its greatest strengths and makes our system nimble and truly focused on the communities it serves. I am proud to represent and support both the CT EMS agencies and it’s providers through advocacy and legislative work. I stand on the shoulders of so many who have come before me, and beside those who work with me now on CEMSAB and the NAEMT, in working hard to protect and move the CT EMS system forward into the future. We have come a long way and will continue moving forward. I am always humbled by this important work, as with this recognition.” said Michael Loiz.
Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick praised Mr. Loiz’s commitment to the Town, his department, and his thoughtful advocacy and legislative work. “Mike is an invaluable leader of our EMS department, a champion for emergency medical service providers, and an effective advocate for progress across the entire EMS system of the state of Connecticut and the country. Congratulations, Mike, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for all you do for our community and beyond.”
Public Safety Director, Larry Ciccarelli, stated, “I have the privilege of witnessing Director Loiz’s incredible dedication to his staff, and his continuous passion for helping the residents of whom he serves. The Town of Stratford is lucky to have Mike at the helm of this department, and I thank him for his continued service and advocacy.”
William Schietinger, Chair of the CT EMS Advisory Board (CEMSAB) said, “Mike has been a strong voice for the CT EMS Advisory Board in our endeavor to improve EMS in Connecticut. One example of this is his ability to help legislators understand the importance of how reimbursement rates have not kept up with inflationary trends causing staffing shortages. He has expressed that the ability of EMS services to offer competitive wages has diminished due to the rising costs of equipment and supplies coupled with below cost Medicaid reimbursement rates. He has been an integral part of the lead effort to improve reimbursement rates for EMS agencies in CT.”
As a true advocate for EMS, Michael A. Loiz will be honored at the upcoming EMS on the Hill Day – Post Hill Reception on Thursday, April 18, from 5:30 – 7:30 pm Eastern Time at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. This event will bring together EMS professionals and stakeholders from across the nation to celebrate his remarkable achievements and contributions to the field.
The NAEMT commends Mr. Loiz for his exemplary advocacy activities, which serve as an inspiration to EMS professionals nationwide. His work embodies the spirit of dedication and passion that defines the EMS community.
Please join us in congratulating Michael A. Loiz on this well-deserved honor. His unwavering commitment to advancing EMS and supporting those in need makes him a deserving recipient of the EMS Advocate of the Year award.
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For media inquiries or further information: 203-385-4060 | emsadmin@stratfordems.org
NAEMT: the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) is the only national association representing the professional interests of paramedics, advanced emergency medical technicians, emergency medical technicians, emergency medical responders and other professionals providing prehospital and out-of-hospital emergent, urgent or preventive medical care. https://www.naemt.org/
CT EMS Advisory Board (CEMSAB): The CT Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board (CEMSAB) was established pursuant to CT General Statutes 19a-178a to make recommendations to the Governor and to the General Assembly concerning legislation which, in the advisory board’s judgment, will improve the delivery of emergency medical services https://portal.ct.gov/dph/emergency-medical-services/cemsab/boards-and-commissions.
Stratford EMS (SEMS): is the municipal, Third Service EMS provider for the Town of Stratford CT. SEMS utilizes a cadre of Paid and volunteer staff to handle over 8500 calls per year. https://www.stratfordems.org
