How Do I Design an EMS Patch?

Emergency Medical Service Personnel are responsible for saving lives every day; and the patch they wear on their uniform is symbolic of that responsibility. Traditional EMS patches contain the rod of Asclepius---a rod with a serpent entwined around it---which is symbolic of healing, surrounded by a six-pointed star. Each point of the star symbolizes a step in the EMS process: detection, reporting, response, on-scene care, care in transit and transfer to definitive care.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Colored Pencils or Markers

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Instructions

• 1

  EMS six-pointed star with the rod of Asclepius

  Draw the EMS six-pointed star with the rod of Asclepius. Most EMS patches utilize the six-pointed star as a centerpiece for the entire design of the patch. Use the picture as a reference and a starting point for the design. Traditionally no wording is placed in the star.

• 2

  Place your city or county name into the design. This is important in identifying your EMS location to others. Most location designations for EMS patches are placed either at the top or bottom of the six-pointed star.

• 3

  Add other artistic details to the patch. This may include special unit certifications such as search and rescue or divers. This may also include features unique to your location such as mountains, a river, or perhaps a slogan that is used by the unit such as "First in, last out". This added detail is what makes your EMS patch unique.

• 4

  Gain approval for your design from your department superiors or client. Then, take the paper design to a graphic designer and have your image converted into a digital one that can be embroidered or transferred to other mediums such as vehicles, business cards and letterhead.