Inaugural EMS Conference readies to train future pipeline of first responders, April 16-17

Saint Alphonsus Health System will host the Treasure Valley’s first EMS Conference on April 16-17, designed to train and strengthen the future pipeline of first responders across Idaho and Eastern
Oregon. The two-day conference held at Boise State University’s Stueckle Sky Center will offer hands-on simulations sessions, workshops led by medical experts, and 10 contact hours of training.  

“First responders form the foundation of every trauma patient’s journey,” said Dr. Brian Coates, Service Line Medical Director of Trauma and Surgical Services at Saint Alphonsus. “Their skilled, on‑scene decision‑making sets the stage for the care we deliver at our Trauma Center, and this conference is one way we help ensure they are best prepared for the moments when every second matters.” 

The Saint Alphonsus EMS Conference is a first for the region, with the closest first responder trainings like it being held in Seattle, Portland, and Salt Lake City. Paramedic, EMT, and prehospital professionals looking to add to their skillset in the field will be in attendance, and the conference will include presentations and workshops from local agencies including Ada County Paramedics, Canyon County Paramedics, and Meridian First Department, along with leading medical providers, and a local keynote with a personal connection to being on both sides of care.  

Keynote Tom Wright, Nampa Fire Division Chief of EMS and a 36-year paramedic, will recount a sudden cardiac event that could have taken his life, had it not been for local first responders and their ability to act quickly.  

Additional trainings and sessions include:  
- Prehospital blood implementation in the Treasure Valley  
- Geriatric Trauma “Grandma vs. Gravity”
- Mental Health: Health, Hugs, and Handcuffs
- Obstetrics simulations 

The Saint Alphonsus EMS Conference is the latest in the health system’s longtime work to build a workforce pipeline of talented healthcare professionals that can serve the future community’s care needs. Annually, the health system holds a series of symposiums and conferences that leads with one goal in mind -- building competency to deliver quality, compassionate, care to patients.  

First responders interested in registering for attendance can visit the conference website here. Discount rates available for groups of five or more.