How Should Rural EMS Funding Streams Be Improved?
AMA journal of ethics · 2025-07-01 · Other / unclear
Abstract
This article considers how to reliably provide emergency medical services (EMS). EMS responses are critical functions of local governments, yet, in rural areas, many are staffed by licensed volunteers. As requests for emergency health services increase and the workforce decreases, transitioning to a paid workforce is critical to maintaining response capacity. This article discusses the need and mechanisms for more robustly funding rural EMS systems.