For a second year in a row, the Delaware County Emergency Medical Services department has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Award for its treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks.

To achieve the Gold Award, an agency must achieve at least 75 percent adherence for 24 consecutive months on all Mission: Lifeline quality measures in the treatment of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the most deadly type of heart attack.

“Emergency medical technicians and paramedics play a vital part in the system of car for those who have heart attacks,” said Dr. James Jollis, chairman of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline Advisory Working Group.

“Since they are often the first medical point of contact, they can shave previous minutes of life-saving treatment time by activating the emergency response system that alerts hospitals. We applaud Delaware County EMS for achieving this award that shows it meets evidence-based guidelines in the treatment of people who have severe attacks.”

Delaware County Commissioner Jeff Benton said the County’s EMS department continues to bolster its reputation as one of the best in the region.

“The dedicated men and women of Delaware County EMS not only save lives every day in this county,” Benton said, “but they work hard to continue their professional education and to also educate the public. We are very fortunate to be protected by these first responders. Their expertise and experience gives residents and visitors to Delaware County who suffer a heart attack the very best chances for survival and recovery.”