South Carolina EMS Association Announces Agreement to Advance EMS Education

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina EMS Association (SCEMSA) has announced a new agreement designed to transform EMS education across the state. This partnership brings together the Midlands EMS Management Council and the Lowcountry Regional EMS Council with SCEMSA to create a unified, accessible approach to EMS training. The collaboration will expand access to training, standardize education delivery, and provide critical resources to underserved communities, ensuring EMS professionals are equipped to meet growing demands.

South Carolina’s regional EMS offices have historically advanced emergency medical services through grant assistance, continuing education, specialized training, and managing state funding. In recent years, SCEMSA has taken on many of these roles, working with regional offices to create a unified framework for EMS education.

"This agreement represents a major step forward for EMS education in South Carolina," said Rodney McAbee, SCEMSA President. "By combining resources and expertise, we are creating new opportunities for providers and building a stronger foundation for the future of emergency medical services." Under the agreement, shared leadership with SCEMSA and the councils will be established under a single education director. This includes the consolidation of online learning platforms, credentialing systems, and education delivery models to make EMS education more accessible, particularly in rural and underserved areas where training opportunities have been limited.

“This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for EMS education,” said Doug Warren. “Partnering with the association allows us to address long-standing challenges and ensure that every provider has access to high-quality, standardized training.”

The unified approach aims to reduce financial barriers to training and provide much-needed support to agencies that have struggled to access essential educational resources. “This partnership is about more than just education, it’s about investing in the future of EMS,” said Britton Lineberger, Board Chairman at Midlands EMS Management Council. “By working together, we can ensure that every professional is prepared to meet the evolving demands of the field and provide exceptional care to those in need.”

SCEMSA’s commitment to enhancing EMS education and fostering collaboration continues to shape the future of emergency medical services in South Carolina. To explore upcoming training opportunities, visit www.scemsa.org/education-corner