The foundation of Murray County is its strong-knit community, and for those living in this area, the presence of AdventHealth Murray's EMS team provides a sense of safety and trust. Whenever medical emergencies arise, the citizens of Murray County can rely on AdventHealth Murray's highly trained EMS team. However, the team's dedication extends far beyond emergency response—through their active involvement in the community, they continually enhance the quality of life for residents.
"We view ourselves as more than just emergency responders," said Doug Douthitt, director of AdventHealth Murray EMS. "We are committed to the community's well-being in many aspects, from education to event participation." Whether it's supporting local events, providing vital career insights, or engaging in community outreach, AdventHealth Murray EMS stands as a cornerstone of service for Murray County.
AdventHealth Murray’s EMS team is deeply involved in supporting local events throughout the county. One of their key areas of service includes providing medical coverage for every high school football game in the area, ensuring the safety of student-athletes and spectators alike. "We cover all high school games," Douthitt noted. "Every single game for both schools in the county."
Beyond football games, the team also supports a variety of events, such as rodeos. AdventHealth Murray's EMS provides medical standby coverage for several rodeos not only in Murray County but also in neighboring Whitfield County and Dalton, making their presence felt across multiple communities.
Another significant event is the Black Bear Festival, which draws approximately 8,000 attendees each year in Murray County. Held over two days in October, the festival features crafts, food vendors and family-friendly activities. AdventHealth Murray's EMS sets up a medical tent, staffed not only by EMS personnel but also by hospital employees, ensuring quick access to on-site medical care.
AdventHealth Murray EMS also prioritizes education within the community. The team hosts public career events at every elementary, preschool, and high school in the county, visiting at least once a year. "There are 11 schools we visit regularly, including church preschools," Douthitt mentioned. By educating children and teens about health and safety, as well as offering insight into careers in emergency services, they help nurture the next generation.
Their educational outreach extends to local institutions like Whitfield Career Academy and Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC). "We participate in annual career events there, providing students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience," Douthitt shared. Many EMT students from these institutions gain clinical experience through AdventHealth Murray EMS, preparing them for careers as EMTs, advanced EMTs, or paramedics.
When it comes to community outreach, AdventHealth Murray EMS partners with the hospital staff during the holiday season to adopt several families for Christmas. The team provides food, gifts, and other necessities, offering direct support to those in need. "Adopting families for Christmas is a way we can give back directly," Douthitt said. "It's something we look forward to each year."
The commitment to education includes providing clinical opportunities for EMT students and supporting ongoing training through the hospital's Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) system. While traditional CPR training in group settings has shifted, the focus remains on empowering health care workers with life-saving skills.
With a focus on holistic care and community engagement, AdventHealth Murray EMS is more than just a service provider—they are a trusted partner, extending the healing ministry of Christ in everything they do. Through their involvement in education, event coverage, and community outreach, they remain a vital part of Murray County's heartbeat. As they continue to expand their service and engagement, their work will leave a lasting impact on the community they call home.