The Hawaii Department of Health announced on May 4 that its Emergency Medical Services Branch has been named the 2026 National State EMS Office / Agency of the Year by the National Association of State Emergency Medical Services Officials.
This award recognizes Hawaii’s leadership in developing innovative and community-centered emergency medical care, reflecting efforts from EMS personnel, healthcare providers, public health professionals, and partners across the state. The recognition highlights how Hawaii’s approach is shaping pre-hospital care and community health outcomes nationwide.
“Hawaiʻi’s EMS system is not only responding to emergencies, but also helping to prevent them,” said Governor Josh Green. “This national award underscores our commitment to building a stronger, more equitable healthcare system for all residents, especially those in rural and underserved communities.”
The department reports that over the past year it has shifted from a traditional emergency response model toward a comprehensive systems-of-care approach focused on prevention and addressing root causes for calls to 911. Under Garrett D. Hall’s leadership as State Chief of Emergency Medical Services, efforts have included expanding mobile integrated health programs and launching initiatives such as Community Anchored Rural EcoSystems of Care (EMS CARES). These are supported by programs like Rural Health Transformation and Rural Infrastructure for Care Access to bring services directly into communities.
“Our focus has been on building the foundational infrastructure and partnerships necessary to support a true system of care,” said Hall. “By working alongside legislators, EMS agencies, hospitals, the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council and many others, we are establishing a coordinated, resilient system that improves access, strengthens care delivery and meets the needs of communities across Hawaiʻi.”
Dr. Kenneth Fink, Director of Health at DOH said: “This award represents the dedication and collaboration of our entire EMS system, from first responders to healthcare partners and community organizations. Hawaiʻi is leading the way in reimagining how emergency care is delivered, ensuring people receive the right care at the right time, in the right place.”
According to its official website, DOH supports community well-being through education about vaccination and disease outbreaks via its Disease Outbreak Control Division. The department aims to safeguard residents’ health through disease prevention efforts as well as environmental protection initiatives according to DOH. The agency operates under a director with deputy directors managing key programs as noted by DOH, with offices providing services throughout multiple islands as outlined online.
DOH also provides public health preparedness through its Office of Public Health Preparedness which coordinates planning for disasters or epidemics according to official information. As a statewide public health agency it delivers comprehensive services focused on wellness across Hawaii according to DOH.
Looking ahead, landmark legislation will transition this branch into an expanded Emergency Medical Services Systems of Care Branch covering acute systems such as trauma or stroke along with injury prevention.
