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What paths (in tech) are available in EMS?
A career area I want to explore is EMS: Emergency Medical Services.
I know that EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters populate most of the field. I want to broaden my perspective of what's out there. Personally, I'm interested in roles that use technology and planning, such as EMS Management.
What are some career professions available for those that want to enter EMS management, or other related areas?
Would like to hear from professionals in Emergency Medical Serivces, or related backgrounds (healthcare, public health, clinicians, etc).
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6 answers
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Jennifer’s Answer
Indeed, you're right – a vast support team works behind the scenes in EMS. Numerous local 911/EMS centers provide opportunities for job-sharing days, allowing you to meet team members and ask questions. I highly suggest contacting your nearby office to learn more. Additionally, a career counselor could be a valuable resource for guidance.
Hello! Thank you for providing your thoughts!
Tianna
Updated
John’s Answer
Tianna - There are many options to consider. I am a former paramedic and have known many people in various leadership roles from local agencies to state and national planning and coordination. Almost without exception, all of them have had experience in the field. It gives them credibility and and an understanding of the unique nature of EMS services and systems. I'd recommend that you start there if you have not already. Taking an EMT course and working or volunteering will introduce you to the profession and let you gain a working knowledge of the challenges.
Right now, like in many other areas of medicine, staffing is a major issue. In areas that are more rural, EMS services are likely to be staffed by volunteers, and in larger areas municipal fire/EMS services offer paid positions, benefits and retirement after 20 years. There has always been a push/pull between volunteer and paid services and ensuring coverage and availability is something many areas are struggling with still. This is in addition to other issues like declining reimbursements and funding, burnout, and increased demand due to an expanding aging population.
Because of the many issues facing EMS, strategic planning is needed now more than ever. Choosing to follow a path that will lead you to a degree in public health, system planning and design, or analytics and quality are all good options. Leadership can happen at the local level (city or county), state level (state / regional), or national levels. Communities need directors to oversee local services. Each state has offices that oversee their EMS services and licensing as well as planning. There are national organizations, such as NASEMSO that are constantly evaluating how to improve the EMS system nationally and addressing multiple topics from communication systems to streamlining licensing for military medics who want to transition to the civilian role. In addition, there are opportunities at many federal agencies to include FEMA, CDC, CMS, and HHS that have influence and impact on EMS. By pursuing one of the degree programs above, you would have many options for roles in any of these organizations. I've added some links below - there are many more I could have included, but these should give you a good starting point.
Best of luck to you.
https://nasemso.org/
https://emscimprovement.center/
http://www.cdc.gov/
http://www.fema.gov/
https://www.ems.gov/
Right now, like in many other areas of medicine, staffing is a major issue. In areas that are more rural, EMS services are likely to be staffed by volunteers, and in larger areas municipal fire/EMS services offer paid positions, benefits and retirement after 20 years. There has always been a push/pull between volunteer and paid services and ensuring coverage and availability is something many areas are struggling with still. This is in addition to other issues like declining reimbursements and funding, burnout, and increased demand due to an expanding aging population.
Because of the many issues facing EMS, strategic planning is needed now more than ever. Choosing to follow a path that will lead you to a degree in public health, system planning and design, or analytics and quality are all good options. Leadership can happen at the local level (city or county), state level (state / regional), or national levels. Communities need directors to oversee local services. Each state has offices that oversee their EMS services and licensing as well as planning. There are national organizations, such as NASEMSO that are constantly evaluating how to improve the EMS system nationally and addressing multiple topics from communication systems to streamlining licensing for military medics who want to transition to the civilian role. In addition, there are opportunities at many federal agencies to include FEMA, CDC, CMS, and HHS that have influence and impact on EMS. By pursuing one of the degree programs above, you would have many options for roles in any of these organizations. I've added some links below - there are many more I could have included, but these should give you a good starting point.
Best of luck to you.
John recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hello Tianna,
EPIC is one of the leading Electronic Health Care systems out there. This amazing software company is trusted by numerous healthcare providers and hospitals. They constantly develop advanced technology products, particularly focusing on EMS software and additional features. EPIC offers a wide range of opportunities in this field, not only in programming but also in designing products and enhancing healthcare in various technology-related areas.
EPIC is one of the leading Electronic Health Care systems out there. This amazing software company is trusted by numerous healthcare providers and hospitals. They constantly develop advanced technology products, particularly focusing on EMS software and additional features. EPIC offers a wide range of opportunities in this field, not only in programming but also in designing products and enhancing healthcare in various technology-related areas.
Hello! EPIC sounds like a nice company based on their website. I'll look into them and other similar groups. Thank you!!
Tianna
Updated
Owen’s Answer
The choice between IT Tech and the practical side of EMS depends on your interests. If you prefer focusing on IT, you can work on designing and producing parts for EMS services. However, if you enjoy hands-on fieldwork, consider joining an IMS team as their IT Tech. This way, you can respond to calls while also fixing and potentially enhancing the tools used by EMS units.
Hello! I appreciate this. IT is an area I'm interested in career wise. Thank you so much!
Tianna
Updated
Micheal’s Answer
Hello Tianna. If you're looking to manage EMS or Emergency Management and plan on getting a 4 year degree in college there are a few options. Public health, emergency management, healthcare management are just a few. I have a BS in healthcare Management with a minor in homeland security and emergency management. I'm sure there are degrees in emergency operations or the like as well. I agree that you should call your local EOC and even ask for on onsite internship or "ride along" type volunteer scenario. Good Luck.
Hello! These are great ideas! I will look into local Emergency Operation Centers and volunteer/work opportunities. Thank you so much!!
Tianna
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hi Tianna,
Indeed, technology plays a vital role in enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). There are several technology paths available within the EMS field that can be pursued for a rewarding career. One prominent area is EMS informatics, where professionals leverage data analytics, software development, and information systems to optimize EMS operations. This involves managing electronic health records, developing data-driven insights for resource allocation, and implementing technologies to streamline communication and documentation processes. Another pathway is telemedicine in EMS, which involves utilizing telecommunications and digital platforms to provide remote medical assistance, triage patients, and consult with healthcare professionals in real-time. Additionally, there are opportunities in mobile technology and applications development, focusing on creating innovative tools for patient monitoring, emergency response coordination, and providing critical medical information. Embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) can further revolutionize EMS by improving diagnostic accuracy, facilitating predictive analytics, and enhancing patient outcomes. Pursuing a career in technology within Emergency Medical Services can be an exciting and impactful way to contribute to the ever-evolving field of emergency healthcare.
Indeed, technology plays a vital role in enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). There are several technology paths available within the EMS field that can be pursued for a rewarding career. One prominent area is EMS informatics, where professionals leverage data analytics, software development, and information systems to optimize EMS operations. This involves managing electronic health records, developing data-driven insights for resource allocation, and implementing technologies to streamline communication and documentation processes. Another pathway is telemedicine in EMS, which involves utilizing telecommunications and digital platforms to provide remote medical assistance, triage patients, and consult with healthcare professionals in real-time. Additionally, there are opportunities in mobile technology and applications development, focusing on creating innovative tools for patient monitoring, emergency response coordination, and providing critical medical information. Embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) can further revolutionize EMS by improving diagnostic accuracy, facilitating predictive analytics, and enhancing patient outcomes. Pursuing a career in technology within Emergency Medical Services can be an exciting and impactful way to contribute to the ever-evolving field of emergency healthcare.