Deaf Smith County Hospital District (aka Hereford Regional Medical Center)’s EMS team has been named the 2025 EMS Provider of the Year by the Panhandle Regional Advisory Council (RAC). The award recognizes the outstanding commitment of the emergency medical services team to delivering exceptional care, rapid response, and lifesaving support to the community.

The award was presented last week by Panhandle RAC Operations Manager Howard Heath, and accepted by Hereford Regional Medical Center EMS Director Terry Hazlett, EMT-P, along with Roy Turney and Travis Holmes, who were joined at the ceremony by Hereford Regional Medical Center Emergency Department Director Kati Alley.

“This team is out there every single day making sure our community gets the care it needs quickly, safely, and with professionalism,” said Candice R. Smith, MSN, RHCNOC, CCRN, RACR, CEO of Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “Their work is foundational to the care we provide as designated Level IV trauma center and as a community health care provider. Through 9-1-1 response and the award-winning community paramedicine program, DSCHD’s emergency medical services team demonstrates the values of bravery, compassion, creativity, and expertise every single day.”

The Panhandle RAC selects one EMS provider annually that demonstrates excellence in patient care, education, and regional collaboration. Hereford Regional Medical Center EMS was recognized for its highly trained personnel, strong inter-agency coordination, and dedication to rural emergency care across Deaf Smith County and surrounding areas.

Terry Hazlett, EMS Director at HRMC, emphasized the deep team commitment behind the honor.

“This award is a reflection of the hard work, heart, and dedication of every member of our EMS team,” said Hazlett. “We train hard, we respond fast, and we care deeply about the people we serve. It’s an honor to be recognized, but even more of an honor to do this job in a community that trusts and supports us.”

For more information about Hereford Regional Medical Center EMS or other services at Hereford Regional Medical Center, visit www.dschd.org.