At TeamHealth, we know that a key piece of exceptional emergency care is strong partnerships- especially the one between EMS professionals and emergency clinicians. That’s why we remain deeply committed to supporting the education, recognition, and growth of paramedics in our communities. When EMS and emergency medicine teams work in close coordination, patients receive faster, more informed, and more compassionate care. Our long-standing support of the Roane State Paramedic Training and events like the Paramedic Recognition Ceremony reflect our belief in the vital role EMS plays in the broader spectrum of care – and our commitment to investing in the future of this essential profession.
Dr. Randal Dabbs, Co-Founder, President, Practice Development attended this year’s ceremony to personally recognize the critical role EMS plays in emergency care and to reaffirm TeamHealth’s commitment to support the next generation of paramedics. In addition, Dr. Dabbs serves as the EMS Medical Director for Knox County and the Medical Director for AMR, making this partnership even more meaningful. Here’s what he had to say about the celebration:
“What began nearly four decades ago as a small luncheon to honor a graduating class has grown into a meaningful tradition in our EMS community – The Paramedic Recognition Ceremony. It’s an inspiring celebration of the perseverance, compassion, and excellence of our graduating paramedic students, and this year’s ceremony was no exception.
Back in the mid-1980s, my friend and partner Dr. Lynn Massingale became the first medical director of the Roane State Paramedic Training Program. I was honored to follow in his footsteps a few years later, along with several other emergency physicians committed to shaping the next generation of EMS professionals. What started as a small gesture of celebration from Southeastern Emergency Physicians, and now TeamHealth, has evolved into a meaningful tradition to recognize the committed efforts of each graduating student.
This year, we proudly recognized 18 exceptional students as they crossed the threshold from trainees to professionals. The ceremony featured heartfelt remarks from faculty, EMS leaders, and alumni, as well as the first-ever Paramedic Patch Ceremony – symbolizing not just achievement, but their new role as trusted caregivers in the field. Student awards were given out that highlighted leadership, resilience, and service, with a strong emphasis on the values that define this demanding field of work.
One of the most powerful moments was presenting the Paramedic of the Year award to Jennifer Ringeisen – chosen by her peers for exemplifying what it means to be a leader, a teammate, and a mentor to her fellow cohort members. This kind of recognition confirms that you’re not just ready to wear the uniform – you’re ready to carry its responsibility.
Emergency medicine and EMS are foundational to the health of our neighbors, and TeamHealth is proud to continue supporting Roane State and these outstanding graduates. Their dedication ensures our communities are in good hands – for today and for the future.”
