Wake County Expands EMS Workforce with 12 New Positions

The Wake County Board of Commissioners has authorized the addition of 12 full-time emergency medical positions to its workforce. This decision responds to the increasing demand for emergency services fueled by the county’s population growth. Currently, Wake County is experiencing an average daily increase of approximately 66 residents, with more than 52% of its population aged 55 and older.

As part of a strategic initiative to enhance its emergency services, Wake County plans to expand its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) staff by hiring 7 paramedics and 5 emergency medical technicians (EMTs). This expansion is crucial for addressing the rising number of medical service calls, which are anticipated to grow alongside the population.

In a recent meeting, a representative for Commissioner Vickie Adamson highlighted the county’s commitment to supporting emergency medical teams. The initiative aims to ensure that current and future needs for emergency services are met effectively. EMS Director Dr. Jon Studnek underscored the importance of this staffing increase, stating, “A larger population will result in a larger number of 9-1-1 calls, so it’s critical that we scale our staffing early to stay ahead of those needs.”

The county is preparing for its next EMS Academy, which is set to commence in March 2024. Applications for the new positions are currently open, with information available on the county’s official website for interested candidates.

This proactive measure reflects Wake County’s recognition of the challenges posed by its expanding population. As the demand for emergency medical services continues to rise, the county’s efforts to strengthen its EMS workforce are essential for maintaining public safety and ensuring timely medical responses.