Who We Are

Hatzalah of Orlando is a volunteer first response group that provides emergency medical response 24 hours a day during the vacation seasons.  This service is at no cost to all who need it, regardless of race, religion or ethnicity. Hatzalah of Orlando’s mission is to improve medical outcomes and save lives by enhancing existing emergency medical services in the greater Orlando area

Hatzalah of Orlando was formed to supplement pre-hospital care and develop a higher level of emergency preparedness and support to the Jewish tourists to the Orlando area by augmenting the existing services provided by the local municipality and counties.

In emergency medical situations, where every second counts, immediate emergency care can mean the difference between life and death.

Hatzalah’s role is to stabilize patients until 911 arrives and then transfer care to them. Hatzalah is not an ambulance service and will not provide transport.

Hatzalah of Orlando provides emergency medical response within defined geographical boundaries of the Greater Orlando area.

SAVING LIVES

Hatzalah has saved thousands of lives in other communities because its volunteers are local and live and work in high population areas.

PROVIDING THE BEST POSSIBLE CARE

Hatzalah volunteers approach each call with fresh enthusiasm. They bring a sense of urgency and compassion that is unparalleled because their patients are also their friends, family and neighbors.

EMS ACTIVATION

Hatzalah members may be called when community members hesitate to dial 911 because they are uncertain if medical attention is really necessary, or are reluctant to call because they are underinsured or uninsured. A quick assessment by a Hatzalah EMT or Paramedic may encourage the patient to seek definitive care sooner than they would have otherwise. Better medical outcomes are a usual result of faster initial care.

SENSITIVITY AND UNDERSTANDING

Hatzalah members are trained in both emergency medicine and Jewish law, with an understanding of the unique needs of the community. They are sensitive to cultural considerations and can direct patients to go to the hospital when they may not otherwise. For instance, a Hatzalah member’s explanation of the severity of a patient’s symptoms may alleviate the fear of chillul Shabbos (forsaking the sabbath) and inspire keeping the mitzvah of hatzalas nefashos (saving of life), a form of patient advocacy that can only be provided from within the community.