Wake County Expands Emergency Medical Services with 12 New Hires

Wake County has announced the addition of 12 full-time emergency medical positions to bolster its emergency medical services (EMS) workforce. The decision by the Wake County Board of Commissioners responds to an increasing demand for emergency services driven by the county’s growing population.

The population in Wake County is expanding at a rate of approximately 66 people per day, with a significant portion—52%—of residents aged 55 and older. This demographic shift has prompted county officials to enhance their emergency services to ensure adequate response capabilities. During a recent meeting, a representative for Commissioner Vickie Adamson emphasized the importance of supporting emergency teams to meet both current and anticipated needs.

The planned increase in staffing includes the hiring of 7 paramedics and 5 emergency medical technicians (EMTs). This initiative aligns with a strategy developed by Dr. Jon Studnek, the EMS Director, who highlighted the necessity of expanding personnel in light of the rising number of emergency calls. In an official statement, Dr. Studnek remarked, “A larger population will result in a larger number of 9-1-1 calls, so it’s critical that we scale our staffing early to stay ahead of those needs.”

The upcoming Wake County EMS Academy is scheduled to begin in March 2024, and applications for the new positions are currently open. Interested candidates can find more information and apply through the county’s official website.

As the population of Wake County continues to grow, the expansion of emergency services is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. The county’s proactive approach to enhancing its EMS workforce illustrates a commitment to maintaining high standards of emergency care in the face of increasing demands.