10/07/2025
Did you know?
EMS Professionals are typically compensated (paid) far below the minimum standard of living. Most are unable to live within the communities that they serve
đź’° Median EMT salary: $35,350/year
(Many under $30K)
Most EMTs work long shifts, face traumatic scenes, and put their lives at risk every day — yet earn far less than other public safety professionals. With no government money to support them. They often rely on insurance reimbursement (which is often way less then what the call actully costs), fundraising and public donations to keep the doors open. Expenses double or even triple to keep the doors open. Who decides when to have a crew available and when not to? Who decides who gets life saving treatment and who doesnt because the station had to cut expenses and can now only provide crew part time.
With staff shortages EMTs are working 56+ hours a week with that comes more expenses for overtime pay. Less sleep more burn out and more people leaving the profession.
The harsh reality is that the state, while they dont fund EMS, are in charge of the rules and regulations and they continue to make it harder for smaller (rural) EMS stations each year to obtain licenses. Stations are shutting down daily due to no funding.
What happens that day when you call 911 and hear no one is coming, or its going to hours before it arrives? What if you are alone? What if you cant get help any other way?
I dont know about you but I think EMS is a vital part of this community and every community.
All EMS agencies need HELP, including Tionesta
These are the people we rely on in our most critical moments.
