Philadelphia Paramedic Receives National EMS Award

Columbia Southern University (CSU) recently recognized Philadelphia paramedic Lt. Patrick Carey as its inaugural 2021 Outstanding Emergency Medical Services Professional of the Year. Carey began his career in 1994 and has earned several awards for acts of heroism since, including the National Liberty Award of Valor for rescuing an infant from a car fire in 2013.

“Being a paramedic in stressful situations, I am able to keep patients calm while protecting them and providing excellent medical care. It’s a wonderful feeling and makes me feel proud,” said Carey.

Carey is an EMS instructor for Pennsylvania and a state evaluator for paramedic and emergency medical technicians. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration with a concentration in emergency services management from CSU.

Runner-up for the debut award is Michael Wolfe, an EMS/emergency preparedness coordinator for Hendricks Regional Health in Danville, Indiana. He began working as an EMT in 1984 and became a paramedic in 1987. He has worked in the private sector, volunteer and career fire services. In 2016, he retired as division chief of EMS for the Plainfield, Indiana, Fire Territory after 18 years and began working for Hendricks Regional Health. Wolfe is also seeking a master’s in public administration to add to his bachelor’s degree in homeland security.

A leader in public safety education, CSU established the Outstanding EMS Professional Award to recognize students and graduates serving in the EMS field for their commitment to saving lives, professionalism and their accomplishments in the field during National EMS Week (May 16-22). CSU also awards outstanding law enforcement, fire service and occupational safety and health professionals.

Publication does not imply endorsement by the City of Philadelphia.