We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Dr. Marilyn Gifford, former Board Chair of the National Registry of EMTs, who passed away earlier this week in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Dr. Gifford played a crucial role as a member of the National Registry's Board of Directors during a period of significant transformation for the organization. As the first woman to hold the position of board chair and one of only three individuals to serve in that capacity for two terms (1992-1993 and 1998-1999), her impact was profound. During her tenure, the National Registry Board of Directors endorsed the EMS Education and Practice Blueprint and pledged support to CAAHEP, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals, as the accrediting body. In her second term, Dr. Gifford spearheaded substantial revisions to the practical examinations for EMT-I/85, EMT-I/99, and EMT-Paramedic.

Beyond her contributions to the National Registry of EMTs, Dr. Gifford served as an emergency room physician in Colorado Springs from 1980 to 2013. Later, she assumed the role of Medical Director of Emergency Services, earning a reputation as a staunch advocate for her colleagues, staff, patients, EMS personnel, and the community at large.

Dr. Gifford's exceptional guidance and unwavering commitment to prehospital care and emergency medicine were a true blessing to our world. We remain forever grateful for her exemplary leadership and invaluable contributions.

Media Contact:
Shane Cartmill
Public Relations and Media Manager    
scartmill@nremt.org