CEO Update: December 12, 2025

State EMS Council Meeting – Rural Health Transformation Update

This week, I attended the State EMS Council meeting in Troy, New York, along with other EMS leadership from our area. These meetings are always a valuable opportunity to hear updates directly from the Division of State EMS and to connect with EMS partners from across the state. The discussions help ensure we stay aligned with statewide priorities and continue strengthening our work to support EMS providers and improve patient care throughout our region.

During this meeting Dr. Heslin, First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer for the New York State Department of Health, provided an update on New York State’s application for the Rural Health Transformation Program. A few key takeaways:

• Rural Community Health Partnership:

  Encourages hospitals and community agencies to work together to design locally driven projects that reflect each community’s needs.

• Primary Care Initiative:

  Focuses on advancing rural primary care practices, with strong integration of technology and AI to support efficiency and high-quality care.

• Workforce Pipeline:

  Prioritizes recruitment and retention—from high school through direct support roles. Includes tuition support, expanding educational infrastructure, and more remote teaching and training options. EMS input helped shape this component.

• Technology & Cybersecurity:

  Supports telehealth/e-consults, remote training, and enhanced cybersecurity for rural health organizations.
  

This work aligns well with the direction we’re already moving. Our Step Into Health and Pathways to a Healthier You initiatives position STHCS to be an active partner in advancing these statewide priorities and strengthening access to care across our region.

Update Link