As Donut day just happened I thought I would use the nutrition class I took to share some tidbits about eating healthier as EMS providers spend their shifts caring for everyone else, often while running on caffeine, gas-station snacks, and whatever food can be eaten between calls. Long shifts, missed meals, heat exposure, physical exertion, and [...]
Introduction In EMS, we’re conditioned to advocate for our patients—but far fewer providers feel comfortable advocating for themselves. Whether you’re an EMT or paramedic, asking for a raise can feel awkward, intimidating, or even pointless. But here’s the reality: compensation should reflect your training, responsibility, and impact on patient care. If it doesn’t, it’s time to [...]
New Year’s Resolutions for EMS Providers: A DistanceCME Guide to a Stronger Year 🚑🎆 Image credit: AI-generated image created with ChatGPT (OpenAI), used for educational and editorial purposes by DistanceCME. Image credit: AI-generated image created with ChatGPT (OpenAI), used for educational and editorial purposes by DistanceCME. The New Year doesn’t pause for EMS providers. While [...]
A feasibility study conducted in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania recommends that local Emergency Medical Services agencies strengthen regional cooperation and secure dedicated funding to stabilize EMS operations. The study was requested by county commissioners and reviewed the practices of most EMS providers in the county. EMS1 Key Findings Several volunteer EMS agencies in Wyoming County have folded [...]
🎄 Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide for EMS Providers: Thoughtful & Practical Ideas for the Heroes in Your Life Christmas is a time for giving — and when it comes to EMS providers, the best gifts aren’t just festive, they’re meaningful, practical, and show deep appreciation for the work they do every day. Whether it’s a paramedic, [...]
1. Staffing Shortages & Burnout Continuing nationwide EMS workforce shortages Mandatory overtime and reduced time between shifts Fatigue impacting safety and patient care Difficulty recruiting and retaining new medics Burnout from high call volume and low pay relative to responsibility Paramedics feel stretched thin, and many worry the shortage will worsen. What Providers Can Do [...]
Why it matters more than ever For many of us in EMS, the sound of the siren and the flash of the lights are ingrained in our mindset: “This is a life-or-death call; we’re getting there fast.” But recent data and proposed policy changes are prompting a reassessment of that assumption. In Wake County, North Carolina, [...]
When most people picture Emergency Medical Services (EMS), they imagine flashing lights, lifesaving interventions, and rapid transport to the hospital. Yet one of the most common calls EMS providers encounter is far less dramatic: the lift assist. At first glance, these calls may seem simple—helping someone off the floor and ensuring they are safe. However, [...]
