News

Dear FAA Members,
Please see the below notice from the state on the Rural Health Transformation Program. 

Save the Date: February 18, 1 PM-2PM EST.

Join our webinar to explore the Rural Health Transformation Program. Gain insights directly from the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) on program structure, timelines, and expectations.

Register today at: https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/0e47fe6f-588d-45df-9c31-9b37979af754@583c5f19-3b64-4ced-b59e-e8649bdc4aa6

In addition - we encourage all FAA members to track the FAQ the state has posted related to the RHTP, which is regularly updated: https://ahca.myflorida.com/rural-health-transformation-program. 

Thank you!

Adriana Yanni

Logistics Supervisor
Ambitrans Ambulance

Adriana Yanni has served Ambitrans for more than 20 years and has been instrumental in building and strengthening the organization’s Logistics Department. Through her vision, dedication, and leadership, Adriana helped expand the department to include mobile logistics drivers who deliver supplies and manage inventory across Ambitrans’ entire service area, ensuring operational readiness at all times.

Adriana plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in supporting frontline EMS providers. She ensures crews consistently have the equipment, supplies, and resources necessary to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. Her attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, and commitment to excellence directly impact patient safety and the success of field operations every day.

Through innovation and long-term commitment, Adriana has helped shape the foundation of Ambitrans’ operational infrastructure. Her work exemplifies how strong logistics and operational support are essential components of EMS excellence and system reliability.

Ambitrans is proud to recognize Adriana Yanni as a Star of Life for her dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the organization and the communities it serves.

Charles Toney
Emergency Medical Technician
American Medical Response – Broward County

Charles Toney has served American Medical Response since October 10, 2008, dedicating his career to providing professional, compassionate care to the citizens of Broward County. Throughout the majority of his tenure, Charles has been a trusted EMT responsible for transporting patients to and from hospitals, consistently demonstrating reliability, empathy, and a strong commitment to patient safety.

As his experience grew, Charles transitioned to working primarily at Gulfstream Park, where he provides emergent medical care to jockeys during race days. In this high-risk environment, he has responded to numerous “jockey down” incidents, earning a reputation for exceptional composure, clinical skill, and sound judgment under pressure.

One incident in particular highlights Charles’s leadership and quick thinking. During a race-day emergency involving a collision between two horses, three jockeys were injured when one horse fell and another was trampled. Charles arrived on scene, rapidly assessed the situation, and immediately requested a second on-track unit to assist with rapid extrication and packaging of an injured jockey for transport to the emergency department. His decisive actions ensured timely care while minimizing further risk to patients and responders.

Charles Toney exemplifies the highest standards of emergency medical services through his calm demeanor, teamwork, and unwavering focus on patient safety. His professionalism and dedication make him a valued member of the AMR team and a deserving recipient of Stars of Life recognition.

Dana Shultz

Critical Care Paramedic & Field Training Officer
Sunstar Paramedics

Originally from Zanesville, Ohio, Dana Shultz brings more than four decades of dedication to patient care and medical service. While Dana officially entered emergency medical services in 2016, his journey in medicine began much earlier. In 1982, he earned First Aid and CPR certification as a lifeguard before serving as a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman. While assigned alongside the United States Marine Corps with the 2nd Medical Battalion and 2nd Force Service Support Group, Dana was trained as a battlefield medic, establishing a lifelong foundation of discipline, compassion, and service.

Inspired by the iconic EMS figures Johnny and Roy from Emergency! and by parents who helped form a volunteer fire department and pursued EMT training themselves, Dana felt a calling to emergency medicine early in life. While working in a local hospital and pursuing a nursing degree, he observed the autonomy, leadership, and impact of Paramedics in the emergency department—an experience that ultimately redirected his path toward paramedic training and led him to join Sunstar Paramedics.

Throughout his EMS career, Dana has served in numerous roles, including EMT, Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, Field Training Officer II, Honor Guard member, and Continuing Medical Education instructor. He is an instructor for American Heart Association Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, American Red Cross ACLS, and serves as a county CME educator. In these roles, Dana plays a vital part in onboarding new employees, delivering protocol education, and teaching specialized courses such as Emergency Pediatric Care and Prehospital Trauma Life Support.

One of Dana’s most significant contributions to Sunstar has been his leadership within the EMR-to-EMT program. Through education, mentorship, and encouragement, he has helped guide Emergency Medical Responders into EMT roles, strengthening clinical competency, building confidence, and supporting long-term workforce development and succession planning.

Dana has been recognized for excellence by the Osteopathic Medical Society, honored as an HCA Allstar on multiple occasions, and received special recognition for strike team service during Hurricane Michael. Despite these accolades, Dana considers his greatest professional achievement to be helping clinicians—new and experienced alike—understand the “why” behind patient care, connecting protocols to purpose and medicine to compassion.

Known for leading with empathy, Dana instills the belief that every patient deserves dignity, respect, and understanding. Deeply passionate about education, mentorship, and wellness in EMS, he is committed to supporting colleagues through both professional challenges and personal moments of stress or self-doubt. In addition to his work at Sunstar, Dana serves on the Pinellas County Emergency Medical Corps, continuing a lifelong commitment to service.

Sunstar Paramedics is proud to recognize Dana Shultz as a Star of Life.

Josue Ortiz

Paramedic & Manager of Operations
Trident EMS

Josue Ortiz is a highly experienced and proficient Paramedic with more than 20 years of service in emergency medical care. The majority of his career has been dedicated to critical care and flight medic operations, where he has consistently demonstrated advanced clinical expertise and sound judgment in high-acuity environments. An American Heart Association Instructor, Josue has practiced in both Puerto Rico and the United States, bringing a diverse and adaptable clinical perspective to every role he has served.

Josue’s clinical experience includes advanced interfacility and critical care transport, with specialized expertise in the management and transport of patients supported by intra-aortic balloon pumps and ventricular assist devices, including Impella. His ability to manage complex medical therapies during transport reflects a deep understanding of critical care medicine and a commitment to patient safety and outcomes.

Throughout his career, Josue has remained devoted to helping others through the delivery of high-quality patient care, mentorship of fellow clinicians, and collaboration with healthcare organizations to enhance clinical performance and operational growth. He is passionate about combining experience, education, and leadership to strengthen EMS teams and support organizations in achieving long-term success.

Josue Ortiz’s dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence exemplify the highest standards of the EMS profession. He is a respected clinician and leader whose impact continues to elevate the quality of care provided to the communities he serves.

Andrew Lytle

EMT & Shift Lead Field Training Officer
E-Care Ambulance

Andrew Lytle exemplifies the true spirit of public service through his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and compassion for every patient he serves. Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, Andrew consistently makes himself available to help others—even during personal time—because he believes service to the community does not end when a shift concludes.

In addition to his role in EMS, Andrew serves as a firefighter with the Crystal River Fire Department, skillfully balancing both responsibilities with discipline and pride. Whether on the fireground or the ambulance, he brings calm leadership, humility, and readiness to act in moments when others need him most.

Andrew is a passionate advocate for patient care and patient rights, placing high value on dignity, respect, and trust. He is widely known for ensuring patients feel heard and supported, particularly during stressful or vulnerable situations. Of special note, Andrew consistently advocates for patients who may initially refuse transport due to fear or concern about receiving appropriate care. He takes the time to educate, reassure, and present options—including alternative destination facilities when appropriate—always prioritizing what is truly best for the patient.

Andrew also serves as a cornerstone of E-Care Ambulance’s Critical Care Transport Unit, where he works full time caring for some of the most critically ill and unstable patients in the system. In this high-acuity environment, he supports his partner with confidence and consistency, ensuring complex tasks are completed safely and care is delivered with precision and compassion. A continuous learner, Andrew is always seeking to expand his knowledge and skills to better support his team and improve patient outcomes.

Andrew Lytle’s dedication, advocacy, and commitment to excellence make him a standout provider and an exceptional representative of the EMS profession. E-Care Ambulance is proud to recognize Andrew Lytle as a Star of Life.

Robert Lanoue

Paramedic / Communications Training Officer

Sunstar Paramedics

Robert “Bob” Lanoue, a lifelong resident of Pinellas County, has devoted more than four decades to public safety and emergency medical services. He began his career in 1984 as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Oldsmar and joined Pinellas Ambulance in 1985, launching a distinguished career dedicated to serving his community.

After more than 25 years on the streets of Pinellas County as a Paramedic, Bob transitioned into the Communications Center at Sunstar Paramedics, where his influence has continued to expand. Having served both in the field and in communications, Bob brings a rare and comprehensive understanding of the EMS system. His adaptability, professionalism, and depth of experience have earned him widespread respect across disciplines.

Bob firmly believes that EMS is a family built on trust, compassion, and mutual support. He treats everyone he encounters with genuine care, generosity, and respect, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and new team members alike.

In his roles as System Status Controller, Communications Training Officer, and Emergency Medical Dispatch–Quality specialist, Bob has made a profound and lasting impact on the Communications Center. He has helped establish many of the foundational practices still in place today, shaping how dispatchers are trained, supported, and developed. Bob serves as a mentor and coach to new employees, provides quality assurance and improvement, contributes to policy development, and creates meaningful, scenario-based continuing education that connects dispatch theory to real-world outcomes. His passion for innovation and continuous improvement ensures the Communications Center remains a vital and evolving link between the community and emergency responders.

Bob understands that the Communications Center is often the public’s first point of contact during moments of fear and uncertainty. Through his leadership, he has reinforced the critical role dispatchers play in providing reassurance, gathering life-saving information, and setting responders up for success—directly impacting patient care, responder safety, and public trust.

A positive, growth-focused leader, Bob emphasizes long-term success over short-term correction and excels at fostering a cohesive, supportive learning environment. Those he has coached consistently praise his patience, enthusiasm, and wealth of knowledge.

Outside of work, Bob is proudly known as “Papa” to his five grandchildren and values time spent with family. Whether riding his motorcycle or sharing a new dish he has prepared, Bob approaches life with the same steadiness, thoughtfulness, and warmth that define his leadership and mentorship.

Sunstar Paramedics is proud to recognize Robert Lanoue as a Star of Life.

Derek Knost

Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Operations Management
Trident EMS

Derek Knost brings more than 18 years of experience in healthcare to his work in emergency medical services, including over eight years as a Paramedic, Field Training Officer, and leader in operations management. Throughout his career, Derek has demonstrated a strong commitment to patient-centered care, clinical excellence, and the professional development of those around him.

Derek offers specialized expertise in pediatric care, having worked closely with hospital partners to transport critically ill children requiring life-saving medical procedures. His calm approach, clinical precision, and attention to detail have helped ensure safe, high-quality care for some of the most vulnerable patients served by the EMS system.

Beyond the field, Derek has made a lasting impact through his contributions to operational development. Within Trident EMS, he has helped design systems and processes that support EMTs and Paramedics in delivering exceptional care while upholding the highest clinical and professional standards. His leadership emphasizes efficiency, accountability, and empowerment, enabling providers to better serve their communities.

Derek plays a vital role in the continued growth of Trident EMS through focused efforts in training, recruitment, and operational improvement. A lifelong resident of the State of Florida, he remains deeply invested in strengthening the EMS system and serving the communities he proudly calls home.

Trident EMS is proud to recognize Derek Knost as a Star of Life.

John Ippolito

Paramedic
American Medical Response – Broward County

John Ippolito has served American Medical Response for five years, dedicating his career to providing high-quality emergency medical care to the citizens of Broward County. As a seasoned Paramedic, John is known for his strong clinical skills, sound judgment, and unwavering commitment to patient safety. He consistently demonstrates professionalism and composure, particularly in high-pressure environments.

John’s exceptional service was recently demonstrated while working an extra shift as part of a second response unit at Gulfstream Park during a “jockey down” incident. Responding to a jockey who sustained a serious leg injury, John acted with urgency and precision. He quickly assessed the patient, removed him from immediate danger, and initiated appropriate treatment. Working seamlessly with his partner, John ensured the patient was properly packaged and transported to the hospital for definitive care, minimizing delays and prioritizing patient outcomes.

Beyond this incident, John has repeatedly stepped forward to serve during times of crisis. He has participated in multiple hurricane deployments, providing evacuation and medical support during Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. His willingness to operate in challenging, high-stress disaster environments reflects both his resilience and his deep commitment to the communities he serves.

John Ippolito’s actions exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical services. His calm demeanor, teamwork, and dedication to patient care make him a trusted Paramedic and a valued member of the AMR team. American Medical Response is proud to recognize John Ippolito as a Star of Life.

Carrie Hill
Lead Paramedic
HCA Medical Transport

HCA Florida Capital Medical Transport is proud to recognize Lead Paramedic Carrie Hill as a Star of Life for her dedication, resilience, and leadership within the EMS profession. Carrie exemplifies what it means to be both a skilled Paramedic and a committed leader, consistently serving patients, colleagues, and her community with professionalism and compassion.

Carrie began her EMS career after earning her Emergency Medical Technician certification from First Coast Technical College in 2008. She went on to complete Paramedic training at the Florida Medical Training Institute in 2010. Prior to joining HCA Florida in Tallahassee, Carrie served with Baptist Health System in Jacksonville, where her desire to help people during the most difficult moments of their lives fueled her passion for emergency medical services.

Carrie joined HCA Florida Capital in 2015, working in the emergency department until 2021. That year, when the Medical Transport Team was established, Carrie was among the first to step forward, helping build the program from the ground up. Her impact was immediate. Later that same year, Carrie was involved in a tragic accident that nearly claimed her life and threatened the career she loved. Through determination, perseverance, and a deep commitment to her profession, Carrie worked through a long and demanding rehabilitation and returned to duty with renewed passion and purpose.

In 2022, Carrie was promoted to Lead Paramedic, assuming leadership of the very team she helped establish. Even when faced with a serious medical diagnosis in 2025—one that might have caused many to step away—Carrie continued to lead with strength and resolve. Under her leadership, the Medical Transport Team has doubled in size and increased its call volume threefold, reflecting both her vision and her ability to inspire those around her.

Carrie Hill’s resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to patient care embody the very spirit of the Star of Life. HCA Florida Capital Medical Transport is honored to recognize Carrie Hill for her lasting impact on the EMS profession and the community she serves.