Northeast South Dakota Area Health Education Center (Northeast SD AHEC) began its partnership with EMS in 2019, following a recommendation by Dr. Matt Owens of Redfield Community Memorial Hospital. The goal was to increase access to high-quality EMS education and training led by experts at the regional, state, and national levels—especially for providers in rural South Dakota.

Since then, Northeast SD AHEC and SD EMSA District IV have built a strong and trusted collaboration. Together, we’ve launched initiatives such as the District IV Refresher, COVID-19 Community Panels, and monthly EMS webinars, providing relevant and timely education accessible directly in the communities where EMS professionals serve.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Northeast SD AHEC and SD EMSA District IV partnered to bring rural EMS providers up-to-date information through virtual panels featuring community health leaders. These sessions helped bridge information gaps and supported providers during a rapidly evolving public health emergency.

Under the direction of the South Dakota Department of Health, Office of EMS & Trauma, new initiatives have emerged to ensure EMS professionals receive the highest quality training to strengthen pre-hospital care across the state. Since 2021, Northeast SD AHEC has led a comprehensive needs assessment focused on EMS education, particularly related to entry-level training. This effort led to the creation of a statewide EMS Education Taskforce—bringing together educators, EMS professionals, and leaders to shape the future of EMS training in South Dakota.

Currently, Northeast SD AHEC receives funding through the SD Department of Health’s Regional Service Designation program. This grant supports ongoing efforts to strengthen EMS education, workforce development, and public awareness—targeting key challenges such as recruitment, NREMT pass rates, and community preparedness.

Northeast SD AHEC remains committed to empowering EMS professionals through education, innovation, and partnership—ensuring that every South Dakota community has access to capable, confident, and well-trained EMS providers.