The Role of Alcohol in EMS Culture: Perspectives from Frontline Providers.
Occupational Health · 2026-09-01 · Qualitative study
Abstract
Alcohol use among emergency medical service (EMS) providers is an emerging concern given the demanding and stressful nature of the profession, although little research has explored how alcohol fits within EMS culture. This study examined EMS providers' perceptions of alcohol use and how it intersects with their occupation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 providers from non-fire-based EMS agencies across the United States. Participants represented a range of licensure levels, agency sizes, geographic regions, and drinking patterns. Interviews explored perceptions of alcohol use, workplace norms, and organizational influences related to drinking. Data were analyzed using an inductive qualitative approach to identify common themes across interviews. Participants described alcohol use as a driving force for social bonding, stress relief, and informal coping with the demands of the job. These findings highlight the importance of considering occupational culture and social norms when developing strategies to address alcohol use and support workforce health in EMS.
Abstract © the authors or publisher, via PubMed. Reuse and removal
Tags
Alcohol · Clinician perspective · Paramedics & EMTs · Poisoning & substance use
Related articles
- Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Help-Seeking for Alcohol and Other Drug Use Among Australian Public Safety Personnel. (Drug Alcohol Rev, 2026)
- Exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of first responders. (Cogn Behav Ther, 2021)
- Occupational stress and alcohol use: a study of two nationwide samples of operational police and ambulance, personnel in Norway. (J Stud Alcohol Drugs, 2007)
- Spirituality/Religion Among First Responders With and Without Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Misuse. (J Dual Diagn, 2024)
- Pilot outcomes and exploration of treatment mechanisms using a culturally adapted version of the unified protocol for transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders to improve mental health symptoms, alcohol misuse, functional outcomes, and sleep quality in emergency responders. (Front Health Serv, 2025)
- Spirituality in the line of duty: Perspectives from first responders with acute posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder. (Psychol Serv, 2025)