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Orange County Paramedic Recognized for Inclusive Emergency Care

At the EMS World Expo 2026 in Orlando, Lt. Sarah Studley of Orange County Fire Rescue received the Dynarex First Responder Caring Award. The honor highlights her decade-long commitment to reshaping emergency services for residents with sensory, functional, and communication needs across a department handling 124,000 annual calls.

Orange County Paramedic Recognized for Inclusive Emergency Care

Studley’s approach centers on proactive patient support, most notably through the creation of a Functional Needs Registry. This voluntary system allows residents to share medical conditions and mobility requirements before an emergency occurs, providing first responders with vital context before they reach the scene. Her initiatives extend to the field, where she equipped every transport unit in the 45-station department with sensory bags designed to reduce patient anxiety and facilitate clearer communication.

Beyond equipment, Studley focuses on cultural shifts within the agency. She leads sensory-awareness training via the department’s Preceptor Academy and spearheaded the first Sensory-Friendly Open House in partnership with the University of Central Florida. By creating environments that minimize stimulation, she has bridged gaps between neurodiverse residents and emergency personnel, fostering community trust that persists long after the initial call.

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