Beyond the sirens: ‘ We were a number, we were replaceable’ – Uncovering the stressors faced by emergency medical service workers

Background Private Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers play a critical role in providing pre-hospital care during medical emergencies. This study assessed the key daily stressors faced by such EMS personnel and their sense of coherence (SOC).Methods An exploratory qualitative approach was used in this study using semi-structured ono-on-one interviews with current employees of an EMS agency that provides 911 services. After the interviews, the participants were administered a survey to assess their SOC. Both Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) were invited to participate.Results We identified five overarching categories of stressors: (1) Management and Workplace Culture, (2) Structural Support and Resources, (3) Job Tasks and Physical Barriers, (4) Mental Health Challenges and Resources, and (5) Co-Worker Interactions and Team Dynamics. The cumulative effect of these stressors significantly impacted EMS workers’ SOC. Many reported feeling unsupported by management, inadequate staffing, physical exhaustion, and insufficient mental health resources. Survey data corroborated these findings, with 100% of respondents feeling unfairly treated, and 88% reporting low self-worth.Conclusion The findings highlight the significant challenges faced by EMS personnel and the critical need for improved organizational support and resources to enhance their SOC and overall well-being.