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N.C. county creates additional EMS positions to meet increased demands

Wake County Commissioners approved 12 new EMS positions to keep pace with rapid growth and an aging population

WAKE COUNTY, N.C. — To keep up with increasing demand for EMS, the Wake County Board of Commissioners has approved 12 new full-time EMS positions, enhancing the county’s capacity to provide timely and high-quality care to residents.

“As our county continues to grow and the demand for emergency services rises, I’m proud that we’re finding meaningful ways to strengthen and support our EMS system,” Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson said in a statement. “Investing in our frontline teams ensures that we’re ready to meet the needs of our community, now and in the future.”

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Wake County’s population is growing by roughly 66 people a day and is getting older, with about 52% of residents now 55 or older, trends that are driving up 911 call volumes. To stay ahead of demand, EMS is scaling staffing proactively to maintain timely, high-quality care.

The new positions include seven paramedics and five EMTs, with applications now open for the next Wake County EMS Academy beginning in March.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.