Strengthening Rural EMS with the Kentucky Office of Rural Health

Featuring: Scott Helle, Rural EMS Project Manager 

The Kentucky Office of Rural Health (KORH) has long stood as a vital partner for EMS agencies across rural Kentucky. At the center of this work is Scott Helle, Rural EMS Project Manager, who brings deep commitment to improving the support and resources available to EMS providers serving some of the state’s most underserved communities.

Inspired by Rural Service

Scott’s path to KORH stems from a lifelong appreciation for rural communities and the EMS professionals who safeguard them. “I’ve always had a deep appreciation for rural communities and the vital role EMS plays in keeping them safe,” he shared. Having witnessed the challenges providers face—limited resources, staffing shortages, and long distances—Scott was drawn to the opportunity to help remove barriers and strengthen EMS systems statewide.

Mission and Impact

The mission of KORH is clear: to strengthen and sustain EMS agencies across rural Kentucky. This means connecting providers with resources, leadership training, and collaborative partnerships while ensuring that agencies have the support to overcome daily challenges.

“Cost should never be a barrier to professional growth,” Scott emphasized. Many programs offered by KORH are provided at little or no cost, reflecting the office’s commitment to making education and leadership opportunities accessible to every provider, regardless of agency resources.

The results have been tangible: stronger leadership pipelines, expanded training opportunities, and agencies equipped with the knowledge and confidence to thrive. “The biggest impact has been empowering providers and agencies with the confidence, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive,” Scott explained.

Programs that Build Capacity

Among the initiatives supported by KORH are:

• Certified Ambulance Documentation Specialist (CADS) training

• Kentucky EMS Leadership Academy

• Billing, compliance, and clinical education programs

• Grant and funding assistance for equipment and innovation

These efforts address immediate needs while also building sustainable systems that benefit rural healthcare as a whole.

The Leadership Academy

One of the hallmark programs has been the Kentucky EMS Leadership Academy, which Scott described as transformative. By giving EMS leaders a space to step away from day-to-day challenges, the academy provides a forum for peer learning, new perspectives, and leadership growth. Participants report leaving with fresh strategies for managing agencies, supporting staff, and engaging communities.

“It’s building a stronger generation of leaders who will carry Kentucky EMS forward,” Scott noted.

Rural EMS as the Front Door of Healthcare

For many rural Kentuckians, EMS is the entry point to the healthcare system. Strengthening EMS means more than supporting agencies—it ensures patients receive timely, coordinated, and effective care from their very first point of contact. This ripple effect improves outcomes for patients and reinforces hospitals and healthcare systems statewide.

Collaboration at the Core

Scott emphasized that progress has been made possible through partnerships: “This work is never done alone. Our progress depends on collaboration.” Partnerships with the Kentucky Board of EMS, universities, hospitals, and national associations have been instrumental in expanding opportunities and ensuring EMS remains central in healthcare discussions.

Looking Ahead

The Kentucky Office of Rural Health is actively working to expand leadership development, improve rural EMS data collection, and explore innovative care models tailored to rural populations. Workforce development remains a top priority, with a focus on recruiting, training, and retaining the next generation of EMS providers.

A Message to EMS Providers

Scott’s words to providers are simple yet powerful:

“First and foremost: thank you. Your work matters, and it often goes beyond what anyone outside EMS truly understands. Know that you are not alone—we see the challenges you face, and we are here to support you.”

Closing Thoughts

Scott Helle’s work with the Kentucky Office of Rural Health underscores a simple truth: when EMS providers in rural Kentucky are supported, the entire healthcare system grows stronger. By removing barriers, investing in leadership, and ensuring access to high-quality education, KORH is helping build a future where every community, no matter how small or remote, has dependable, skilled, and confident EMS professionals at its side. Kentucky EMS leaders and providers share a deep appreciation for the commitment Scott and the KORH team continue to show in strengthening rural care.