EMS Today

JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention

JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention

Memphis (TN) Fire Medic Stephen Zachar breaks down how his department tackled the nationwide recruitment crisis in firefighting and EMS.

Moving past outdated hiring tests, Memphis revamped the entire process by prioritizing interviews, valuing real-world experience, and replacing the traditional Candidate Physical Ability Test with a coachable physical fitness matrix.

Stephen reveals how placing paramedics strategically across all units, not just ambulances, slashed burnout and boosted job satisfaction. Their innovative approach cut paramedic attrition by 60% and achieved a remarkable 75% retention rate overall.

With over 800 hires from 40 states, Memphis offers a blueprint focused on respect, career growth, and financial literacy from day one.

The JEMS Report: Women’s Health Challenges in EMS and Fire Service Culture

The JEMS Report: Women’s Health Challenges in EMS and Fire Service Culture
 
Description:
Stephanie White sits down with Stacee Ramirez and Dani Landholm to explore the overlooked health challenges women face in fire and EMS roles.
 
Drawing from Stacee’s extensive study revealing widespread reproductive health struggles, silent miscarriages, and the cultural stigma around pregnancy in male-dominated emergency services, the conversation uncovers a deep-seated culture of silence and blame.
 
Dani, a member of the International Association of Fire Fighters’ Female Health & Safety Standing Committee, shares personal experiences and discusses how outdated policies and lack of support impact women’s ability to advocate for themselves.
 
They highlight the urgent need for cultural change alongside policy reforms to create safer, more inclusive work environments.
 

Not A-Fib Podcast : Gwenny Winkler on Critical Care, Coaching and Embracing Growth

Not A-Fib Podcast : Gwenny Winkler on Critical Care, Coaching and Embracing Growth

 

Veteran flight nurse and educator Gwenny Winkler shares her journey from accelerated nursing programs to helicopter EMS and becoming a sought-after critical care instructor. Gwenny opens up about the steep learning curve when transitioning from emergency department nursing to flight nursing and the rapid evolution of tools like blood transfusions and advanced ventilators in air medical transport. She dives into her passion for education through social media, emphasizing the importance of understanding the “why” behind protocols, not just memorizing facts. Gwenny offers insights on coaching across all experience levels, tackling EMS culture challenges, and balancing professional identity with personal life. She also discusses her unique approach to engaging learners with authentic, down-to-earth content on TikTok and Instagram.

Insights from FDNY Chief John Esposito on Adaptability, Authenticity and Impact

In this inaugural episode of the Chief’s Cadence, Chief Shane Wheeler sits down with FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito to explore effective leadership approaches in fire and EMS services.
 
Drawing on over three decades of experience in one of the nation’s largest departments, Chief Esposito shares how leadership demands more than just command. It requires adapting styles to fit individuals and situations.
 
From the decisive authority needed on an emergency scene to the empathy and authenticity crucial for team trust, they break down autocratic, transformational, servant and authentic leadership.
They also discuss navigating generational differences, the value of honest feedback through personality assessments, and how new leaders can earn credibility without rushing change.
 

Closing the Gap in Pediatric Pain Management

Managing pain in pediatric patients is a critical aspect of prehospital care. Yet, this remains a challenging area for many EMS providers.

 

A new study out called “Barriers and Enablers in Prehospital Pediatric Analgesia” sheds light on the complexities of assessing and treating pain in children during ambulance rides. Led by Dr. Hoi See Tsao, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at UT Southwestern Medical Center, the research identifies key hurdles EMS workers face and suggests actionable solutions to improve care.

 

Dr. Tsao, a specialist in pediatric emergency medicine with a passion for prehospital care, shared her insights and findings during a recent interview. “When pain in kids is not treated, it can lead to adverse effects such as increased anxiety, decreased pain tolerance, and fear of future healthcare encounters,” she pointed out. The stakes are high, and the study highlights both challenges and opportunities for EMS professionals.

Elevating EMS Education: Insights and Innovations from Industry Leaders

Elevating EMS Education: Insights and Innovations from Industry Leaders

Dr. Ted Lee discusses education as part of EMS Week. The discussion features  Dr. Shira Schlesinger, Dr. Navin Ariyaprakai and Dr. Maia Dorsett

They highlight the importance of transitioning from traditional, time-based training to a more dynamic and critical-thinking-focused curriculum that fosters professional growth and clinical judgment among EMS providers.

The conversation touches on the value of accreditation, the role of preceptor training, and the increasing demand for lifelong learning within the field.

Celebrating Emergency Medical Services: Insights on EMS Recognition Day

Celebrating Emergency Medical Services: Insights on EMS Recognition Day

JEMS Managing Editor Jeff Frankel talks with Dr. Thomas Lardaro to discuss the critical role of emergency medical services in our communities. Celebrating EMS Recognition Day, Dr. Lardaro reflects on the profound responsibilities and challenges faced by EMS professionals both in urban and rural settings. He highlights the importance of public understanding regarding the unique pressures faced by first responders and the need for meaningful recognition beyond traditional celebrations.

Advocating for EMS: Shaping the Future of Prehospital Care

Advocating for EMS: Shaping the Future of Prehospital Care

Dr. Ted Lee talks with  Dr. Nick Cozzi, Dr. David Tan and Henry Lewis. They talk about the importance of grassroots advocacy, exploring how every EMS provider serves as an ambassador for the profession.

By sharing their stories and building relationships at local and federal levels, they emphasize the need for a unified voice to promote essential changes in legislation and funding. The panelists highlight the evolving landscape of EMS, driven by innovative care strategies and partnerships that enhance patient outcomes.

Empowering Communities: The Significance of Save a Life Day

Dr. Ted Lee looks at the impact and importance of Save a Life Day for EMS Week. Featuring expert guests Dr. Matt Levy and Corey Richter, the discussion underscores the critical role of community engagement in prehospital emergency medicine.

 

Both leaders share their extensive backgrounds in EMS and emphasize the necessity of equipping citizens with essential skills to respond effectively in emergencies, such as performing CPR, managing bleeding and advocating for blood donation initiatives.

 

They highlight that by fostering a proactive culture of preparedness, communities can significantly improve health outcomes and save lives.

Innovating Prehospital Care: The Impact of Mobile Integrated Health Programs in South Carolina

Dr. Ted Lee speaks with Luke Estes, manager of Prisma Health's Mobile Integrated Health Program, to explore the transformative role of community paramedics in prehospital medicine. Dennis shares his journey from a young aspiring EMT in Missouri to leading a groundbreaking health initiative in South Carolina. The program, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2019, addresses various social determinants of health, aiming to reduce hospital readmissions and enhance patient care access. With a footprint spanning 18 counties—primarily rural—this initiative adapts to meet diverse community needs, breaking down barriers to healthcare through education and resource connection.