Essential Principles to Create an Equitable, Inclusive, and Diverse EMS Workforce and Work Environment: A Position...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Equity Studies
• Emergency Medical Services Research

Background:

• Health disparities disproportionately affect marginalized populations regarding morbidity and mortality.
• Existing emergency medical services (EMS) systems may perpetuate inequities through patient care management, access, and workforce composition.
• Lack of workforce diversity in EMS can contribute to implicit bias and impact patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a position statement on addressing systemic racism and health disparities within EMS.
• To provide actionable steps and priorities for reducing health inequities in EMS patient care and systems.
• To advocate for enhanced workforce development and equitable practices in emergency medical services.

Main Methods:

• Review of public health statistics and existing research on health disparities in EMS.
• Analysis of systemic factors contributing to inequities in EMS care delivery and workforce.
• Development of a position statement with recommendations for EMS agencies.

Main Results:

• EMS systems can reduce health disparities through educational, operational, and quality improvement interventions.
• Systemic racism and lack of diversity in EMS contribute to significant health inequities.
• Multifaceted strategies are needed to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within EMS.

Conclusions:

• EMS agencies must adopt a multifactorial approach to workforce diversity and intentional recruitment from marginalized communities.
• Educational programs and training must be redesigned to enhance cultural sensitivity, humility, and address social determinants of health.
• Community engagement and research involving underrepresented minorities are essential for advancing health equity in EMS.