Monroe County proclaims this week National EMS Week

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — EMS agency workers and Monroe County proclaimed this week National EMS Week.

They gathered Monday morning to thank first responders and recognize the services they provide, but speakers also consider this a crossroads.

Executive Director of AMR Rochester Mark Philippy said they need to clarify their identity as an essential service as first responders, emergency medical workers, technicians, paramedics, practitioners and providers.

"At the end of the day, our colleagues in this profession provide these services without hesitation, without questioning who why, or how," Philippy said. "They do it because, despite all these challenges, EMS professionals have that same drive, that need to help people and save lives."

Philippy said the job of an EMT has grown more complex in recent years and that needs to be recognized.