Oliver Pledges to Join Congressional EMS Caucus, if Elected to Texas CD-25.
Julie Oliver, the Democrat candidate for Texas’ 25th Congressional District, spent time with CD-25 paramedics last week.
During the visit she pledged to join the Congressional EMS Caucus, if elected.
“It was great getting to know Julie Oliver,” said Austin EMS Association President Selena Xie.
“She was extremely interested in the role EMS plays in our greater healthcare system, and all the ways that EMS is leading innovation when it comes to telehealth and community health paramedicine.”
The Congressional EMS Caucus is a bipartisan caucus educating legislators about EMS policy. Caucus members are informed by experts about the evolving needs of EMS.
“(Oliver) has focused on healthcare during her campaign,” said Xie. “When she learned about the progressive programs EMS is pioneering, she jumped at the opportunity to join the EMS caucus.”
In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released EMS Agenda 2050, the federal vision for EMS. By 2050, paramedics are expected to perform expanded medical roles in their communities in addition to being emergency responders.
“EMS is considered a key component to reducing future healthcare costs, increasing healthcare access, and promoting injury and illness prevention,” said ATEMSP Executive Director Daniel Owens. “It’s a lot for policy makers to follow, but their decisions determine the future.”
In Texas, only 2 of its 36 Representatives currently participate in the Congressional EMS Caucus.
Oliver’s visit and stated intent to join the caucus was valued.
“It means a lot to have leaders spend time with their EMS professionals,” said ATEMSP VP of Advocacy CJ Lance. “It’s fantastic to see leaders better understand how EMS can achieve improved healthcare access for our communities.”
Texas CD-25 stretches from Johnson County to Hays County. The district contains numerous EMS delivery models serving both rural and urban communities.
“It was great to share our profession,” said Xie. “I appreciate Julie taking time to learn more about the paramedics in her district.”
Congress currently has over thirty active pieces of EMS related legislation.
All Representatives are encouraged to join the Congressional EMS Caucus and locally engage their EMS professionals.
