What is the EMLRC?
The EMLRC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) education and research facility that offers state of the art emergency medicine, disaster response/management, and public health education and support to emergency medicine and disaster specialists nationwide.

Is the EMLRC related to a hospital, insurance company, pharmaceutical company or health group?
No, we are an independent, non-profit foundation.

Who does the EMLRC serve?
The EMLRC serves the full continuum of emergency medicine (EMTs, Paramedics, Emergency Nurses, Emergency Physicians and Firefighters) and disaster specialists (Planners, Disaster Medical Assistance Teams, Urban Search and Rescue Teams, and Counter-terrorism Responders) Ultimately, they serve the general public through their day-to-day activities and public safety education.

What makes an emergency care provider so different?
The emergency “continuum of care” used to look quite different. In most cases, a hearse was used to transport patients because it was the only vehicle equipped to handle a stretcher. When emergency rooms were originally founded, doctors did a rotation. There were no emergency care providers. Today, there is a unique and specialized group of EMT/Paramedics, firefighters, nurses, emergency physicians and other emergency care providers that work together to save lives. However, the roles of these professionals continue to change over the years. From the staggering numbers of those without healthcare and the subsequent overcrowding of emergency rooms, to dealing with the threat of bio-terrorism, the leadership provided by EMLRC will serve to help educate and equip those on the front lines.

How are the Florida College and the Foundation affiliated with the EMLRC and when was it formed?
The Florida College of Emergency Physicians was established in 1971.
The Florida Emergency Medicine Foundation was established in 1990.
Both organizations support the programs of the EMLRC.

How is the EMLRC governed?
The EMLRC is governed by an autonomous 15-member board of directors that is diverse and brings a variety of expertise to the EMLRC. They set policy and guide staff. Each board member is a volunteer.

Are there other facilities like this?
While some hospitals and colleges have educational resources, there are no other independent facilities like the EMLRC.

Why does the EMLRC provide education?
Emergency medicine and disaster professionals need to continually update and expand their skills and understanding of all aspects of healthcare. The EMLRC provides this cutting-edge education through quality, affordable education programs so that these professionals can be better prepared to care for the public.

What kind of education does the EMLRC provide?
The EMLRC provides education for professional licensure/certification continuing education requirements, critical care medicine, specialized rescue and disaster response, leadership/management and public health response for emergency medicine, disaster response and public health professionals.

How can I participate in an EMLRC course?
Many courses are offered through conferences and seminars provided by the EMLRC. There are continuous programs offered and held at our current headquarters and in larger venues.

Is the EMLRC accredited?
EMLRC is accredited to provide physician continuing medical education (CMEs) through the Accreditation Council for Continuing Education, to provide Paramedic/EMT continuing education units (CEUs) through the Continuing Education Coordinating Board for Emergency Medical Services and the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of EMS, and to provide nursing (CEUs) through the Florida Board of Nursing.

What is the format for learning?
Individuals learn through opportunities including seminars, lectures, simulation labs, interactive DVD, CD-Rom, and Web-based activities.

How long has the EMLRC been providing education?
The Florida College of Emergency Physicians has been providing education since 1971. The EMLRC currently provides continuing education to thousands through programs such as the International Disaster Management Conference (held since 1983); Clinical Conference on Prehospital Emergency Care (held since 1984); and Sand Key EMS Summit for EMS administrators.

What does the EMLRC do with research?
The EMLRC is currently identifying ways to conduct and publish research on the latest and most advanced techniques of emergency medicine and serve as a “Think Tank” for the development and advancement of this important public service and essential care component of our society.

How does the EMLRC work with FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security and other government entities?
As one of the nations few combined providers of accredited continuing education for physicians, nurses, EMT/Paramedics, disaster and emergency preparedness personnel, the EMLRC works closely with these agencies to remain current on the latest educational needs for Emergency Disaster Response. The EMLRC serves in a capacity to contract with the Department of Health to address critical issues and initiatives to serve the citizens of Florida. The EMLRC is also the coordinating member of the University Alliance for Weapons of Mass Destruction Education and is integrated with the State Working Group for Disaster Preparedness. In addition, the EMLRC staff work with various local and state governmental leaders to promote the work being accomplished.

Why does the government not fund the EMLRC entirely?
The EMLRC is a non-profit organization rather than a government program. While the EMLRC collaborates on many initiatives with government, the primary function is to provide education and research toward furthering the field of emergency medicine to protect and care for all patients.

How is the EMLRC supported?
While most support comes from those attending education and recertification programs, additional support is garnered from local, state, and federal funds, corporate and foundation gifts, and most importantly, individual contributions.
In addition, sponsorships and in-kind gifts are given to support efforts of the EMLRC.

I/My Company doesn’t support healthcare, so how can we help?
While a company or individual may not support healthcare groups directly, the EMLRC is a way to support the Emergency Care responders. A contribution to the EMLRC through the capital campaign, sustaining program or sponsorship is a way to ensure public safety through community readiness. Contributions of time are also needed. Please contact Beth Brunner, Chief Executive Officer at (407) 281-7396 x14 to explore ways you can help.

Why is a new building important?
This year, more than 106 million individuals, of which 30 million are children, will be seen and treated by emergency care providers. It is imperative that providers are afforded the opportunity to learn the most cutting-edge techniques and are adequately certified. By having the EMLRC, more providers can have the opportunity to learn through expanded programs and facilities. In addition, valuable research in the field can be made and the advances of tomorrow be started today. The EMLRC will also serve to produce educational materials/information distributed nationally and internationally.

What will the building cost and where are you to date?
Building costs are estimated at $6 million. Combined public and private funds are being sought for the EMLRC. Nearly $3 million has been raised to date. Commitments through the state and federal government are being secured. This project is the culmination of over four years of study into the educational and research needs of the many professionals who provide emergency care. The EMLRC will meet a demonstrated need as confirmed by a feasibility study conducted in 2002.

What special features will the new building offer?
It will be a one-story structure with approximately 32,000 square feet featuring an education center with break-out lab areas that feature simulation equipment and distance learning capabilities. Also housed at the EMLRC will be a walk-through museum dedicated to emergency responders and the history of their journey. There will be an auditorium that can accommodate approximately 200 people and will be used for EMLRC learning and community-wide functions.

How will the EMLRC be supported long-term?
Through continued conference and learning programs and the generosity of individuals, foundations, and companies.

I/My company isn’t in Florida, why should I support EMLRC?
Because more than 3,000 participants from across the country choose EMLRC annually and they take their learning back to the communities in which they serve which may include you/your company.