2020 KEMSA Events Update - May 11, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has created tremendous challenges for all of humanity, and it has been accompanied with a level of uncertainty that we have not seen before. EMS has been at the forefront of the response to the pandemic and has been elevated to a level of well-deserved prominence in many communities.  There remains much ambiguity in the immediate path to returning to normal day to day activities even though there has been some lifting of social restrictions. 

The KEMSA Board of Directors has carefully weighed their responsibilities to ensure the safety of Kansas EMS providers and agencies.  We have decided to cancel the 2020 KEMSA EMS Conference & Expo, along with all in-person events in 2020, out an abundance of caution given the unforeseeable future.  The gathering of hundreds of EMS providers from multiple EMS agencies in close quarters has the potential to impact EMS operations across the state and is an unacceptable risk in the opinion of the Board.  This also means we will not give out awards in 2020.

The KEMSA team is working diligently to pave new paths in the delivery of EMS education to our membership and providers across the state.  We will be working with national and local educators to provide high quality education targeted at the needs of Kansas EMS.  KEMSA intends to leverage technology to provide access to timely education that will do more than simply meet the state renewal requirements for continuing education.  KEMSA’s goal to provide the same high caliber content you would expect from our conference and other events in an online format.  More details will come in June.

A lot more than education occurs at our events, and I am saddened that we will not all be together to enjoy the comradery and renewal of friendships that occur every year.  The plan is for the conference and other events to return in 2021. 

I sincerely appreciate the work and commitment of all those willing to serve their community during this crisis. I also want to thank all our sponsors, vendors, and our membership for your support of KEMSA.  In addition to education, we will continue to advocate for Kansas EMS as we strive to make our profession better.  I look forward to seeing you all soon.

Respectfully,
Dave Johnston, President
Kansas EMS Association

Please note:

• While we are going to continue to provide education to you, we recommend that you don't wait until the last minute to get your CE hours.  Anything can happen. Watch our website and facebook page as we promote other educational opportunities you can take advantage of.