Mike Taigman Honored with the Keith Neely Outstanding Contribution to EMS Award

Mike Taigman, FirstWatch Improvement Guide, has been awarded the prestigious Keith Neely Outstanding Contribution to EMS Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

Mike, a nationally recognized figure in EMS, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improvement in EMS. His impact goes beyond professional achievements; he is a compassionate mentor whose influence has positively shaped the lives and careers of NAEMSP members and has contributed significantly to the well-being of patients and communities.

Within NAEMSP, Mike is celebrated for his leadership in Quality & Safety initiatives. His instrumental role in developing and implementing educational programming has positioned NAEMSP as a national leader in EMS improvement science education. Mike's profound knowledge of Quality Improvement (QI), gained through his dedication to education with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, has been crucial in shaping the curriculum and content of various courses, making him an essential part of each program's success.

Mike's tireless efforts extend beyond educational initiatives. He played a pivotal role in advocating for the inclusion of quality improvement projects under the Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence (SQUIRE) Guidelines in the journal, Prehospital Emergency Care. Additionally, he has worked diligently to integrate quality improvement projects into conference abstracts, fostering collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas.

As a national thought leader in EMS Quality Improvement, Mike led the EMS Agenda 2050 project, gathering feedback nationwide to shape recommendations and visions for the future of EMS. His leadership in the first-ever national EMS quality improvement partnership project, aimed at reducing lights and siren use, showcased his commitment to improving the safety of EMS clinicians and the public.

Todd Stout, FirstWatch Founder and President said “We couldn’t be more delighted for Mike on receiving this recognition. Mike's tireless dedication, visionary leadership, and genuine passion for EMS improvement have not only elevated our own organization but have set a standard for excellence across North America. This recognition is truly well-deserved, and we couldn't be more proud to have Mike as a colleague and an invaluable member of our team."

Beyond his professional endeavors, Mike made a significant contribution during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic by publishing a book dedicated to practical and tactical ways to manage stress for EMS clinicians. Mike Taigman's outstanding contributions to NAEMSP and the broader field of EMS are numerous and commendable, his expertise, mentorship, and thought leadership have left an indelible mark on the profession, and many agree that he is a worthy recipient of the award.