EMS staff shortages in Tennessee

A renewed effort to hire more EMS workers across Tennessee, as an ambulance company sounds the alert about the shortages they're facing and how it impacts patients.

[chriscastle]

This is an ongoing problem and has been for quite some time. Not only is response times limited but also there is limited care due to the shortage of paramedics vs emts. Alot of people don't understand that there is a difference in the level of care that can be provided. A major reason for this limitation is due to poor pay by 911 county commissioners budget, overwhelming and demanding shift rotation. Sometimes alot of us have to work 2 jobs which includes 48 and sometimes 60 hour shift in a row just to make ends meet for survival and health coverage. EMS needs to funded by the federal and not local government. Another reason for this shortages caused by burnouts is due to society abusing the 911 system. I personally have responded to 911 calls such as a toothache, menstrual cycle discomfort, and trouble sleeping in the past. Its time the the system is reevaluated and constructed differently.