30 minutes | Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Representatives from San Juan Regional Medical Center discussed the importance of EMS services during National EMS Week, emphasizing when people should call 911 for true emergencies such as strokes, heart attacks, severe bleeding, and major trauma. They explained that EMS crews in San Juan County cover a huge 5,500-square-mile area with only about eight ambulances available at a time, responding to more than 22,000 calls each year. The interview also highlighted the advanced training EMS personnel receive, the challenges of long shifts and staffing shortages, and the life-saving care paramedics can provide before patients reach the hospital. Finally, the speakers encouraged the public to support EMS workers during EMS Week and reminded drivers to pull over and stop for emergency vehicles so crews can respond safely and quickly.