A recent article that blames a lack of volunteers on expanded EMT training really shows the level of complexity that comes with using volunteers to respond to EMS service calls.
While an increase from 120 hours to 170 hours for hazmat and weapons of mass destruction training might be a contributing cause to the scarcity of volunteers, I doubt that it’s the driving force.
News flash, folks: EMS has changed.
What used to be a few runs a year managed by well-staffed volunteer departments, have steadily evolved into complex systems of care with community expectations to respond in a timely manner, and provide care under a uniform standard.
Simultaneously, we live in a society where two-income families who are commuting long distances are the norm. These two forces have been working in tandem for at least the past 20 years to drain the volunteer pool.
New York State has tried a variety of initiatives to attract volunteers over the decades, but none have halted, or even slowed the loss of EMS staffing. It’s evident that at least some of the areas of the state are responding to the crisis by consolidating services, hiring paid staff, and otherwise evolving their systems to respond to environmental changes.
Unfortunately, those who fear change will continue to weigh heavily on any progress being made. The state’s political leadership will likely need to make some unpopular decisions to ensure that the public remains protected.
After all, isn’t that one of the main purposes of government?
