OUTREACH

The Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) and the the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia partnered in 2021 to help connect patients suffering from addiction to recovery resources. Patients interested in speaking with a peer recovery specialist sign a release form. Within 48 hours, a peer recovery specialist contacts the patient to try and get them into a recovery center.

Through the program, RAA is able to put those suffering from addiction on the path to recovery.

In addition, resource packets filled with recovery options in the Metro Richmond area are given to patients and family members interested in the program. RAA and our partners remain committed to working with our public safety and health partners to get as many patients connected to recovery as possible so they can live healthy and prosperous lives.

For more information about the programs contact us.

RIDER ALERT MOTORCYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM

Motorcycle deaths and injuries continue to be a serious problem in Virginia. The Richmond Ambulance Authority and Bon Secours Virginia started the Rider Alert program in 2011 in partnership with Motorcycle Virginia to help first responders provide rapid and accurate medical assistance to motorcyclists involved in serious crashes. Identification cards located inside the rider’s helmet provide first responders with lifesaving information including important medical history and emergency contact information. The cards are available at the Richmond Ambulance Authority. For more information click on the link below.

http://rideralert.org/

LIFESAVER PROGRAM

The LifeSaver Membership Program helps City of Richmond residents cover the cost of emergency medical transports. For a low, annual fee of $62 for individuals, or $99 for a family, the plan covers insurance co-pays and deductibles for emergency ambulance transports. Medicaid recipients should not join the Lifesaver program, as it does not provide you with any additional benefits. Coverage begins on January 1 (ends on December 31st) each year. Keep in mind there is a 30-day administrative waiting period, so the sooner you complete your application and mail it in, the better! In some cases emergency transports are not covered by insurance, or patients are responsible for the full balance of their transport. In those cases the LifeSaver Membership Program provides a 20% discount for that transport.

If you would like to sign up for Life Saver Membership, please download our PDF form.

PAWS FOR PARAMEDICS

The Richmond Ambulance Authority and the Richmond SPCA launched a partnership creating the Pets for Paramedics program in 2018. It was later renamed Paws for Paramedics to reflect other programs the Richmond SPCA had in place to similarly help different populations under its Paws for Health umbrella. The program is designed to help EMS providers relieve stress through regular interaction with pets from the Richmond SPCA. RAA staff interact with pets awaiting adoption while also providing exposure to help the pets find homes.

According to studies, EMS providers are frequently exposed to traumatic events which can lead to high levels of workplace stress. This partnership allows RAA to continue its dedication to providing a healthy work environment for our EMTs and Paramedics. Research on the human-animal bond has demonstrated the benefits pets can have on a person’s mental, social and physical health. If you’re interested in adopting one of these pets visit our Newsroom.

Bystander Support Cards

The Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA), in partnership with the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD), launched “Bystander Support” cards aimed at connecting bystanders who have witnessed or experienced trauma to available resources. RAA and RHHD understand not all wounds can be seen and bystanders can be impacted after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event.

A QR code, located on the back of the “Bystander Support” cards, links bystanders to a list of resources compiled by RAA with the help of RHHD to help those who may need support following a traumatic event.

The cards are available to RAA’s Supervisors, Paramedics, and EMTs and will be used to engage bystanders if possible and when appropriate.

RAA Honor Guard

The Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) honor guard is a ceremonial unit that represents and honors fallen public safety personnel. This unit participates in different events and ceremonies including funerals, memorial services, parades, and community events.

The honor guard is not only a symbol of respect for those who serve but also helps to educate the community about public safety and its values. Their presence at events and ceremonies underscores the commitment and sacrifice of public safety professionals. Members of RAA’s Honor Guard graduated from the National Honor Guard Academy. The academy specializes in providing honor guard training to police, firefighters and EMS personnel on how to care for the family of an emergency service provider on their greatest day of need – the day they bury their loved one.

Mission:

“With dignity and respect, we give honor to those who have served and carry the flag for those who no longer can.”

Vision:

“Where reverence and perfection merge.”