Excerpts from cbsnews.com:
Since the start of the pandemic, nearly every industry has faced staffing challenges—but for some roles, the stakes are literally life or death. That’s especially true for EMTs, whose work is critical in emergency situations. However, many EMTs are leaving the profession due to low pay and financial strain.
A veteran EMT with seven years of experience is now questioning how much longer she can continue in her role. She earns $18 an hour, just slightly above the national median wage for EMTs, which stands at $17.05 per hour. This translates to an annual salary of around $35,470—among the lowest in the healthcare sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this job is not only underpaid but also highly demanding.
In 2021, a third of all EMTs left their jobs, with low wages being the main reason. The shortage of qualified workers has made it increasingly difficult for the industry to maintain staffing levels. A 2022 study by the American Ambulance Association found that 39% of part-time EMT positions and 55% of part-time paramedic roles remained unfilled due to a lack of candidates.
One of the key reasons behind the low pay is Medicaid’s reimbursement rates for non-emergency transport services. These include moving patients between hospitals or taking them to dialysis appointments. The reimbursement amounts are far below the actual cost of providing these services.
AMR, the largest private ambulance company in the U.S., recently announced it will stop offering non-emergency transport services in Los Angeles County. The decision was driven by a $3.5 million budget deficit in that region, largely due to insufficient Medicaid payments.
Amwest Ambulance, another provider, is trying to retain its staff by offering raises. But the company admits it can’t sustain this long-term. If Medicaid reimbursement rates don’t improve, they may have to stop non-emergency services altogether. Each average non-emergency transport costs the company over $250, while Medicaid pays only $107 per call.
Meanwhile, California recently passed a law requiring a $22-an-hour minimum wage for fast food workers. Yet, no such requirement exists for EMTs, despite the high level of responsibility and risk involved in their work.
Thanks, Rob
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