COFEMS Hosts Visiting Paramedics from Kassel, Germany During EMS Exchange Program
By: Lara Traylor, NREMT, Regional Field Coordinator, Rappahannock EMS Council, and Orange County Communications Department
On November 21, County of Orange Fire & EMS was thrilled, along with other first responders and volunteer stations, to extend some Orange County hospitality to a few of our EMS counterparts visiting from Kassel, Germany! For 30 years, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS) has facilitated this exchange program, which allows first responders from Virginia to visit Germany (and vice - versa) on alternating years. One of the unique aspects of the exchange is how it blends professional and personal experiences. When the German paramedics visit Virginia, they don ’ t just observe 911 calls or visit EMS stations—they stay with host families, tour historical sites, and get a real sense of life here. Similarly, Virginia providers experience the same warm treatment when visiting Germany.
Professionally, the program provides a fascinating look at different EMS systems. German paramedics, for example, are highly trained but rely more on doctors at the scene, while Virginia ’ s EMS providers operate with more autonomy. Despite these differences, the universal goal of prioritizing patient care is the same.
Beyond the calls, the cultural aspect of the exchange is equally rewarding. Wayne Perry, who went to Germany in May of 2023, was able to host the German visitors at the Lake of the Woods Volunteer Rescue Squad. He reflected: "They were incredibly gracious hosts, eager to have us visit and experience their system and culture. It ’ s been wonderful to return the favor during their visit here. They were so enthusiastic about absorbing everything and taking it all in. For three of them, this was their first time ever visiting the United States, so everything was a brand - new experience." While here, our guests visited Lake of the Woods
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, enjoyed some airtime with PHI Air Medical Fredericksburg - AirCare 2, toured the Orange County Public Safety Building, and rode along with County of Orange Fire & EMS. The program fosters a professional exchange of ideas that bridges departments and nationalities, but it also promotes a cultural exchange through visits across the Commonwealth and the nation's capital. The EMS Exchange Program has proven time and again that collaboration knows no borders. For participants, it ’ s more than an exchange—it ’ s a life - changing experience. Want to learn more about our visitors? Follow them on Facebook at DRK Region Kassel e.V. or their website at www.drk - kassel.de/index.html (readers may need to brush up on their German)!
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