LA GRANGE — Fayette County EMS Director Josh Vandever has been appointed to the Governor’s EMS and Trauma Advisory Council (GETAC) Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Response, a statewide body that helps guide Texas’ emergency medical and trauma system planning for large-scale emergencies and disasters.
GETAC and its Disaster Preparedness and Response Committee advise the Texas Department of State Health Services on policies and best practices that strengthen Texas’ ability to respond to hur- ricanes, wildfires, mass casualty incidents, floods, and other emer gencies. Vandever will join hospital and public safety leaders from across the state in this advisory role.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to represent Fayette County yet another capacity at the state level,” Vandever said. “Disasters don’t care about county lines, and it’s critical that communities like ours have a voice at the table when Texas is planning how to prepare for and respond to largescale emergencies. I look forward to bringing our rural perspective and our local experience to these discussions.”
Under Vandever’s leadership, Fayette County EMS has focused on improving response capability, strengthening regional partnerships, and planning for multi-patient and multi-agency incidents. His appointment ensures that the needs and challenges of rural communities are considered in statewide disaster preparedness efforts.
“Josh’s appointment is a re- flection of the strong reputation Fayette County EMS has earned across Texas,” said Fayette County Judge, Dan Mueller. “We are proud that Director Vandever has been tapped to help shape statewide disaster planning, and we know he will represent Fayette County well.”
The GETAC Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Response meets regularly to review lessons learned from past incidents, recommend improvements, and support coordination among EMS, hospitals, trauma systems, and emergency management partners throughout Texas.
