Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Emergency Medical Services recently had a swearing-in ceremony to officially welcome new EMTs and paramedics.

According to a press release, the swearing-in ceremony was conducted at the City-County building's Council Chambers.

"Thank you for supporting them in the work they do for the city’s citizens," EMS Chief Ronald Romano said directly to the families of the new emergency medical workers. "Thank you for sharing them with us and understanding when they miss a family event because they are helping someone else."

The ceremony swore in three new EMTs and ten paramedics. One paramedic, Edward Parker, received a promotion.

As part of the ceremony, Medical Director for the City of Pittsburgh Dr. Ronald Roth took a moment to recognize Freedom House Ambulance Service's history of exemplary emergency care. Founded in 1967, Freedom House advanced emergency medical service by providing medical training beyond basic first aid. The service's company of mostly black paramedics were an example for aspiring paramedics in Pittsburgh and around the country.

“This legacy continues today,” Roth said, according to the press release. “Not satisfied with that success, Pittsburgh EMS is on the forefront of treating victims of opioid overdose. We actually start treating victims in the field. We are one of only three or four other agencies in the country to do this.” 

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey concluded the ceremony by encouraging the city's newest EMS to depend on each other and praised them for their dedication to serving the city.

“As you serve each other, you will be able to serve the public with greater respect, love, admiration, and tolerance,” Gainey said, according to the press release. “You will help us build a city that is welcoming.”