According to a report from NewsOn6, the pandemic has created a paramedic shortage that has affected several industries. For the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA), officials have noted that there’s multiple reasons they’re lacking in staff. However, they have looked at several creative ways to fill this void until more paramedics join their ranks.
A predicted nationwide shortage of 42,000 emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics by 2030, partially caused by paramedic schools putting things on hold during the pandemic, has caused EMSA to consider new ways to adapt to this change.
One way was by taking credentialed members in educational or supervisor roles out of their offices and have them staff trucks.
Adam Paluka, chief of public affairs for EMSA, has noted that, even with trucks staffed, they have faced issues with bed delay. To combat this, EMSA hired a transfer of care medic.
Paluka said they are also working on implementing a program for some part-time paramedics to come in and lend a hand.
