Workforce priorities: three steps to determine what they are & move forward

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) research
• Healthcare workforce analysis
• Rural health challenges

Background:

• Significant media coverage has focused on the perceived shortage of EMTs and paramedics.
• This attention has raised public and professional concern about a potential nationwide EMS crisis.
• Rural areas are frequently cited as facing particular difficulties regarding EMS staffing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the extent and nature of media attention on EMS shortages.
• To assess the level of concern among stakeholders regarding EMS professional availability.
• To understand the implications of this attention for policy and action.

Main Methods:

• Review of media reports concerning EMT and paramedic shortages.
• Analysis of the frequency and focus of coverage, especially regarding rural EMS.
• Examination of policy-related events, such as legislative sessions addressing EMS concerns.

Main Results:

• Consistent media reporting indicates a widespread perception of an EMS shortage.
• Rural EMS challenges are a prominent theme in media discussions.
• Increased political attention, evidenced by legislative sessions, suggests a growing urgency to address the issue.

Conclusions:

• The persistent media focus on EMS shortages underscores a critical issue demanding attention.
• Policy-level engagement is increasing, potentially leading to actionable solutions for EMS workforce challenges.
• Addressing the rural EMS crisis requires focused strategies informed by public and political awareness.