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Description
The 2024 EMT and Paramedic License Renewal Survey provides a comprehensive analysis of workforce trends, employment characteristics, recruitment challenges, retention patterns, and the mental health and wellness of emergency medical personnel in Florida. Conducted by the Florida Center for Emergency Medical Services (FL-CEMS) in collaboration with the Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight (BEMO) at the Florida Department of Health (DoH), this survey captures insights from thousands of EMTs and paramedics renewing their professional licenses.
Key findings indicate persistent challenges in workforce retention, particularly for early-career professionals, and a notable decline in satisfaction with compensation. Despite these concerns, EMS personnel express high confidence in medical direction and work schedule flexibility, suggesting that operational support remains strong. The survey also reveals meaningful differences in satisfaction across agency types and community settings, with fire-based EMS agencies demonstrating the highest overall approval ratings. Mental health and wellness assessments indicate a significant symptom burden among EMS professionals, underscoring the need for expanded psychological support systems. Additionally, attitudes toward Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) programs and telehealth suggest growing interest in alternative EMS deployment strategies, though barriers to participation remain.
The findings of this survey provide actionable insights for policymakers, EMS agency leaders, and educators to enhance workforce sustainability, improve job satisfaction, and support professional development initiatives that address emerging trends in emergency medical services.
Publication Date
7-2025
DOI Link
Recommended Citation
Lozano, Michael; Moeller, Bruce J.; and Tobin, Ashley, "Vital Signs: Findings from Florida’s 2024 EMS Workforce Statewide Survey" (2025). Florida Center for Emergency Medical Services Research Reports. 2.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/flcems_reports/2
Comments
This report is the intellectual property of the Florida Center for Emergency Medical Services (FL-CEMS) at the University of South Florida. It may be shared freely for non-commercial use with proper attribution. No part of this publication may be reproduced for sale or profit without express permission.