Sioux Falls, SD — MAY 19, 2025 — As EMS Week begins, Avel eCare proudly honors the critical work of emergency medical services (EMS) professionals across the country. From major metro areas to the most remote corners of rural America, EMS providers are the first to arrive, the first to assess, and often the first to save a life.
Whether responding to a car accident, stroke, or cardiac arrest, these frontline professionals deliver rapid, skilled care when patients are at their most vulnerable. They are a vital part of the care continuum, but too often under-resourced, overextended, and working without adequate support.
That’s where Avel eCare comes in. Avel’s EMS telemedicine program connects first responders in the field to board-certified emergency physicians, experienced paramedics, and nurses, offering real-time, peer-to-peer clinical support during high-pressure moments. Within seconds, EMS professionals can bring another level of expertise directly into the rig, helping to stabilize patients, initiate treatment, and determine the most appropriate next steps.
“Our EMS partners are incredibly capable, but we know from experience that support can make all the difference,” said Dr. Kelly Rhone, Chief Medical Officer at Avel eCare. “With Avel at their side, these teams never have to face a life-or-death decision alone. It’s an added layer of expertise and confidence that strengthens patient outcomes and eases the burden on first responders.”
This support model is already proving effective in states like Kansas, where Avel has partnered with local emergency departments and EMS agencies to bridge care gaps and ensure timely interventions. In South Dakota, where rural access to care can be limited by geography, Avel’s telemedicine platform has helped improve triage and treatment during transport.
Across the board, EMS agencies working with Avel report improved care coordination, enhanced clinical confidence, and stronger recruitment and retention:
- First responders rate Avel’s telemedicine value 4.7 out of 5
- 94% of telemedicine encounters report zero technical issues
- 72% of surveyed EMS personnel believe it helps with recruitment
These outcomes are more than metrics—they represent real lives stabilized, communities strengthened, and responders supported.