In this episode of EMS World’s Rapid Response with Mike and Josh, neurointerventional surgeon Dr. Brijesh Mehta explains how EMS decisions shape stroke care before a patient reaches the hospital. He discusses recognizing a possible large vessel occlusion, using stroke severity scales, and choosing a destination based on local stroke center capabilities. Mehta also explains mechanical thrombectomy, why a detailed prehospital alert helps hospital teams prepare, and how primary, thrombectomy-capable, and comprehensive stroke centers differ. The conversation closes with an effort to expand and standardize stroke education for EMS providers.

Michael Poynter, senior consultant at Fitch & Associates, a first responder consulting firm, sits down with host Mike McCabe to discuss the organization's new training module. The Emergency Services Preparedness (ESP) course covers how agencies can prepare for natural disasters. If the roof on your building comes down during a tornado, do you have a contingency plan in place for serving your community? The course also helps agencies craft policies for caring for responders' families who may be affected by the weather.

The first course kicks off in late March 2027 in Kansas City, Missouri and will feature guest speakers sharing best practices for fortifying your agency. Learn more at fitchassoc.com.

Mike McCabe and Josh Hartman come to you live from the exhibit hall at EMS World Expo 2026, which took place Sept. 28-Oct. 2. Josh dives into some highlights from the floor, sharing how learning happens during every part of the show. They also share an exciting update about "Into the Unknown," the EMS documentary produced by Randolph Mantooth of Emergency! coming to streaming later this year.