Women in EMS: Breaking Barriers and Achieving Success

Exploring the trailblazing achievements and persistent challenges for women in Emergency Medical Services.

Women in EMS play a crucial role in delivering emergency medical care, their impact resonating deeply in patient outcomes and shaping the future of the field. Historically, women’s involvement was limited and often underestimated, but their increasing presence has been pivotal in transforming EMS. Breaking down gender barriers, women have risen to become leaders, innovators, and trailblazers in this demanding profession. Yet, despite these strides, challenges persist, including the ongoing struggle for equal representation and the need to overcome systemic obstacles.

This article explores the profound achievements of women in EMS, highlighting their significant contributions and the barriers they continue to face. By examining their stories of resilience and success, we uncover the strategies they employ to navigate and thrive in a high-pressure environment. As the field evolves, so too does the opportunity for women to make an even greater impact. For those inspired by these achievements and considering a career in EMS, now is the time to act. Discover how to become an EMT and take the first step toward joining this vital and transformative profession.

Historical Context and Current Representation

Women have been an integral part of emergency medical services (EMS) since its early days, though their roles have evolved significantly over time. Initially, the entire concept of care in the field began with Clara Barton during the Civil War. Barton, known as the “Angel of the Battlefield,” made significant contributions to public health. In 1881, Barton founded the American Red Cross and led it for 23 years, cementing her legacy in humanitarian work.

Key milestones include the pioneering efforts of women like Della Raney, who, in 1942, became the first African American admitted into the Army Nurse Corps, which opened the door to hundreds more black nurses to serve the U.S. during World War II. Before World War II, the U.S. military lacked plans for medical evacuations by air. However, the global scale of the war prompted the U.S. Army Air Forces to develop “aeromedical evacuation,” including training flight nurses. On February 18, 1943, the first class of flight nurses graduated from Bowman Field, Kentucky. This innovation enabled the safe transport of wounded soldiers far from the front lines. Eventually, around 500 Army nurses served in 31 medical air evacuation squadrons worldwide.

Current statistics show a growing presence of women in the field, although challenges remain. According to DataUSA, women make up about 31% of the EMS workforce but are still underrepresented in leadership positions. Trends indicate an ongoing need for improved recruitment and retention strategies, as well as efforts to address gender disparities in leadership roles, including the disparity in salary*, with men earning an average of $47,000.00 per year and women, $36,000.00 per year.

Challenges Faced by Women in EMS

Gender Bias and Stereotypes

Gender bias and stereotypes pose significant challenges for women in EMS, affecting their experiences and career progression. Women often face preconceived notions that question their physical strength, technical skills, and ability to handle high-pressure situations. These biases can manifest in various ways, from doubts about their capability during emergency situations to assumptions that they are less committed or competent compared to their male counterparts.

Common misconceptions include the belief that women are less suited for the physically demanding aspects of the job or that they might be less reliable in critical situations. Such stereotypes not only undermine women’s confidence but can also impact their opportunities for advancement and professional recognition.

For example, a study highlights several themes that women in EMS often encounter challenges in gaining respect from peers and supervisors due to these biases. This can lead to reduced career advancement opportunities and a higher likelihood of experiencing burnout. Addressing these stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and supportive work environment is crucial for improving women’s experiences and advancing their careers in EMS.

Workplace Culture

Workplace culture in EMS can significantly impact women’s experiences, particularly when it comes to gender-based discrimination and harassment. Despite increasing numbers of women entering the field, they often encounter a culture that can be unwelcoming or even hostile. Gender-based discrimination can manifest in various forms, including unequal treatment in promotions, pay, and opportunities for advancement. Women might also face harassment or exclusion from critical training and assignments, which can hinder their professional growth and job satisfaction.

This not only affects their mental health and job satisfaction but also contributes to higher turnover rates and reduced career progression. These cultural challenges can lead to a negative work environment where women feel undervalued or unsupported. Addressing these issues requires a commitment to creating a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture, with clear policies and support systems in place to address and prevent discrimination and harassment.

Physical and Emotional Demands

Women in EMS face unique physical and emotional challenges that come with the demanding nature of the profession. Physically, EMS professionals are required to perform strenuous tasks such as lifting patients, handling emergency equipment, and working long shifts under high stress. Women, who may face different physiological challenges, often need to adapt their training and techniques to manage these demands effectively.

Emotionally, the high-stress environment of EMS can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and mental health issues. Women may experience additional stress due to balancing their professional responsibilities with personal and family commitments. This can be exacerbated by the demands of shift work and the emotionally intense nature of emergency medical care.

To manage these physical and emotional demands, women in EMS can employ several strategies:

• Physical Conditioning: Regular strength training and conditioning can help improve physical resilience and reduce the risk of injury.
• Mental Health Support: Access to mental health resources, such as counseling and peer support groups, is crucial for managing stress and preventing burnout.
• Work-Life Balance: Effective time management and setting boundaries between work and personal life can help alleviate the pressures of balancing multiple responsibilities.
• Peer Support: Building a strong network of colleagues can provide emotional support and practical advice for handling the stresses of the job.

Implementing these strategies can enhance well-being and career longevity for women in EMS, helping them to thrive in a demanding yet rewarding profession.

Breaking Barriers: Success Stories and Achievements

Numerous women have made significant contributions to EMS, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Here are some inspiring examples:

1. Jane Brice, MD, MPH: Brice, president of the National Association of EMS Physicians, is a professor and researcher in Emergency Medicine at UNC Chapel Hill. She is deeply involved with UNC, Orange County EMS, NAEMSP, and Prehospital Emergency Care. Her research focuses on stroke care, pediatric emergency medical services, EMS education, and improving prehospital protocols. In 2011, she was honored with the Women Leaders in Medicine award for her role as an inspiring educator and accomplished professional in the medical field.
2. Charlene Cobb: Cobb, Director at Large for NAEMT, has played a key role in EMS safety education, including developing the “Taking Safety to the Streets” course. She began her EMS career in 1980 as a volunteer and now serves as the Community Outreach Coordinator for Sunstar Paramedics. Recognized for her innovations, she received the 1998 Paramedic of the Year Award for creating an EMS translation tool and the 2010 State of Florida Injury Prevention Award for her contributions to EMS and community safety.
3. Sophia Dyer, MD: Dyer joined Boston EMS in 1999, serving in various roles before becoming the city’s first female medical director in 2009. She oversees Boston EMS’ Research, Training, and Quality Improvement team and is an Emergency Medicine physician at Boston Medical Center with a specialty in toxicology. An associate professor at Boston University School of Medicine, she also co-directs medical operations for the Boston Marathon. Dyer has received numerous awards, including EMS Physician of the Year and the Frommer Award for Excellence in Emergency Medicine.

4. Dia Gainor, NASEMSO Executive Director: Gainor provides strategic leadership for NASEMSO, focusing on outreach, representation, and business development to enhance the organization’s national presence in EMS. An “EMS 10 Innovator” and the 2010 recipient of the James O. Page/JEMS Award, Gainor’s expertise is backed by a B.S. in Emergency Health Services Administration, a Master’s in Public Administration, and 12 years of experience as a paramedic and firefighter.
5. Karen Jacobson, Director of the NEMSIS Technical Assistance Center: EMSIS TAC serves as the resource center for developing a national EMS database. Jacobson, affiliated with the University of Utah School of Medicine, assists state, territory, and local EMS agencies, supports commercial software vendors, and helps establish compliance policies. He also aids in creating and assessing EMS software applications.
6. Pam Lane, Executive Director of the NAEMT: Lane, executive director since 2007, manages NAEMT’s headquarters operations and staff, supporting the Board of Directors in executing the association’s work. With a career dedicated to association management, she previously held executive roles at Rotary International, the Institute of Real Estate Management, and the National PTA.
7. Lauren Rubinson-Morris: Rubinson-Morris, president and CEO of MedEx, a Chicago-based ambulance provider, founded the company in 1998 after holding leadership roles at various private ambulance companies. She began her career as comptroller/office manager for Reliable Ambulance Service, then served as vice president of administration for Tower Ambulance Service and director of business development for American Medical Response. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to start MedEx with two ambulances and 17 employees, growing it to over 50 ambulances and 350 employees. MedEx was the first to equip ambulances with Google Glass.
8. Nancy Perry, EMS World Editorial Director: As editorial director of EMS World Magazine and EMSWorld.com, Perry manages all content creation and serves as the education coordinator for EMS World EXPO, crafting the program for North America’s largest EMS conference. Watch this video where she discusses how MCI responses influenced public recognition, fire-based EMS, and mobile integrated health care.
9. Penny Price: Price is the director of the Regional Paramedic Program for Eastern Ontario. In 1999, she left Canada to become the executive director of Qatar’s National Ambulance Service. Tasked with building a national EMS system from scratch, she expanded the service from six ambulances and 60 staff to 60 ambulances, 25 interfacility transfer vehicles, and over 700 staff, drawing on global best practices along the way.
10. Jullette Saussy: Saussy, a medical doctor, was the head of EMS for both New Orleans and Washington, D.C. She began her EMS career in 1984 as an EMT and became a paramedic in 1986. In 2004, she served as the director and medical director of New Orleans Emergency Medical Services, managing operations during Hurricane Katrina. In June 2015, she was appointed medical director of D.C. Fire and EMS.

Initiatives and Programs: Several initiatives and programs support women in EMS and promote gender equality.

• Women in EMS and Fire Leadership Conference: An annual event that focuses on empowering women in leadership roles and provides networking opportunities and professional development.
• Women in Emergency Services (WiES): Women in Emergency Services supports and advances women’s careers in the emergency medical services industry, from field providers to national leadership, through empowerment, networking, mentorship, and education.

Policy Changes and Inclusive Practices: Recent changes in policies and practices have fostered a more inclusive environment in EMS. Many EMS agencies have updated their recruitment policies to ensure fair representation and encourage women to apply for all roles within the service. Also, the implementation of mandatory anti-discrimination and harassment training has been adopted by numerous EMS organizations to create a more supportive and respectful work environment.

These achievements and initiatives highlight the progress made and the ongoing efforts to ensure women’s success and representation in the EMS field.

Strategies for Success: Navigating a Career in EMS as a Woman

Building a Support Network

Building a robust support network is crucial for women navigating a career in EMS. By actively building and leveraging a support network, women in EMS can enhance their professional growth, overcome challenges, and achieve greater success in their careers. Here are key strategies to consider:

• Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can provide guidance, share experiences, and offer career advice. Mentorship can be especially valuable in navigating career challenges and advancing professionally. Look for mentors both within and outside your organization.
• Join Professional Organizations: Engage with professional organizations such as the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) or the International Association of Women in Emergency Services (IAWES). These organizations offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and a platform to connect with other women in the field.
• Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars focused on EMS. These events provide opportunities to learn, network, and connect with like-minded professionals. The “Women in EMS Leadership Summit” is an example of an event that focuses on empowering women and providing networking opportunities.
• Leverage Social Media and Online Communities: Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook groups, and specialized forums can be valuable for connecting with peers, sharing resources, and finding support. Join groups focused on women in EMS to stay informed and engaged.
• Identify Supportive Colleagues: Building relationships with colleagues who are supportive and understand the unique challenges faced by women in EMS can create a more inclusive and collaborative work environment. Allies can provide emotional support, advocate on your behalf, and help you navigate workplace challenges.
• Engage in Advocacy: Become involved in advocacy efforts within your organization or community to address gender disparities and promote inclusivity. Your participation in these efforts can help foster a more equitable environment for all.
• Build a Diverse Network: Having a diverse network of allies and advocates, including both women and men, can enhance your support system and provide a broader perspective on career advancement and workplace issues.

Professional Development

Advancing in an EMS career often involves ongoing education, specialized training, and gaining certifications. Here are some key tips for professional development:

• Pursue Advanced Degrees: Consider enrolling in advanced degree programs such as a Master’s in Emergency Medical Services or a related field. Higher education can open doors to advanced clinical roles, administrative positions, and leadership opportunities.
• Obtain Certifications: Earning specialized certifications can enhance your skills and increase your career prospects. Relevant certifications include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Critical Care Paramedic (CCP-C). These certifications demonstrate expertise and commitment to your field.
• Engage in Continuing Education: Participate in workshops, webinars, and seminars to stay current with the latest advancements in EMS. Many professional organizations and educational institutions offer continuing education opportunities tailored to EMS professionals.
• Specialize in a Subfield: Consider specializing in areas such as trauma care, hazardous materials, or flight paramedicine. Specializations can provide unique career paths and make you a valuable asset in specific situations or roles.

Opportunities for Specialization and Leadership Roles

• Explore Leadership Programs: Many EMS organizations offer leadership training programs or fellowships designed to prepare individuals for managerial and executive roles. These programs often focus on skills such as team management, strategic planning, and organizational development.
• Pursue Clinical Specializations: Specialized roles such as a Flight Paramedic or Tactical Paramedic require advanced training and certification. These positions often come with increased responsibilities and opportunities for career advancement.
• Involvement in Research and Innovation: Engaging in research or contributing to innovative practices within EMS can position you as a thought leader in the field. Look for opportunities to collaborate on research projects or participate in pilot programs for new EMS technologies or practices.
• Professional Associations and Committees: Join committees or boards within professional associations to gain leadership experience and contribute to the advancement of the field. Participation in these groups can also enhance your professional network and visibility.

By focusing on further education, certifications, and specialized training, you can enhance your expertise, open new career opportunities, and position yourself for leadership roles within the EMS field.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

Balancing a demanding career in EMS with personal life requires thoughtful strategies and a commitment to self-care. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support, you can maintain a healthier work-life balance and reduce the risk of burnout.

• Establish Clear Boundaries: Define specific work hours and personal time to ensure that you can fully engage in both areas. Communicate these boundaries to your colleagues and supervisors to manage expectations and reduce the risk of work encroaching on personal time.
• Prioritize and Plan: Use planning tools such as calendars or task management apps to organize your work and personal commitments. Prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals can help manage workload and reduce stress.
• Flexibility and Scheduling: If possible, work with your employer to create a flexible schedule or explore options for shift-swapping to better align with personal commitments. Flexibility can help accommodate family needs, personal interests, and self-care activities.
• Delegate and Share Responsibilities: At work and home, share responsibilities where possible. Delegate tasks to colleagues or seek support from family members to distribute the workload and prevent overload.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Regular self-care is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Incorporate activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional health, such as exercise, healthy eating, hobbies, and relaxation techniques. Taking time for yourself helps recharge and enhances resilience.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Recognize your limits and avoid overcommitting to avoid burnout. Set realistic goals for both professional and personal aspects of your life, and be prepared to adjust them as needed.
• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from mental health professionals, counselors, or support groups if you’re experiencing burnout or struggling to manage stress. Professional guidance can provide valuable tools and strategies for coping.
• Regularly Assess Balance: Periodically evaluate your work-life balance and make adjustments as needed. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t, and be proactive in making changes to improve your overall well-being.

Future Outlook and Opportunities

The field of EMS is evolving rapidly, presenting new opportunities and challenges that will shape women’s roles and career prospects in the future:

• Technological Advancements: Innovations such as telemedicine, advanced diagnostic tools, and data analytics are transforming EMS. These technologies not only improve patient care but also create new roles and specializations within EMS, providing opportunities for women to lead and innovate in these areas.
• Integrated Care Models: The shift toward integrated care models, where EMS teams collaborate closely with other healthcare providers, is expanding the scope of EMS roles. Women can play a significant part in shaping these models, influencing patient care, and improving system efficiencies.
• Increased Focus on Mental Health: As the emphasis on mental health care grows, there will be a greater need for EMS professionals skilled in mental health crisis intervention. This presents opportunities for women to develop expertise in this area and take on leadership roles in mental health-focused initiatives.
• Enhanced Training and Education: With ongoing advancements in EMS training programs and educational resources, women can pursue advanced certifications and degrees that prepare them for leadership and specialized roles.

The EMS field offers diverse career paths, from clinical roles to administrative and leadership positions. Women are encouraged to explore these options and consider how they can leverage their skills and interests in this dynamic field. Take advantage of professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and certification programs, to stay current with industry trends and enhance career prospects. In addition, building a network with other EMS professionals can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and support. Engage with professional organizations and attend industry events to connect with peers and leaders in the field.

Supporting Organizations and Resources

Several organizations and resources are dedicated to supporting women in EMS and promoting gender equality in the field:

• National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT): Provides resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for EMS professionals. Link
• International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency Services: Focuses on supporting women in emergency services through professional development, mentorship, and advocacy. Link
• Women in EMS (WiES): Offers a platform for women in EMS to connect, share experiences, and access resources for career advancement. Link

The future of EMS holds promising opportunities for women to make impactful contributions and advance their careers. By staying informed about emerging trends, pursuing professional development, and leveraging available resources, women can take full advantage of the growing opportunities in the field.

Are You Interested in Starting or Advancing Your EMS Career?

Women have made significant strides in the EMS field, evolving from supportive roles to becoming influential leaders and innovators. Despite facing challenges such as gender bias and workplace culture issues, women in EMS have demonstrated remarkable resilience and capability. Their achievements—from pioneering advancements to leadership roles—highlight their essential contributions to the profession. Professional development, including further education and specialization, has empowered women to overcome barriers and excel in their careers.

Looking ahead, the future for women in EMS is full of promise. As technology and healthcare needs continue to evolve, new opportunities will emerge for women to lead and shape the field. By embracing these opportunities, pursuing continuous growth, and leveraging supportive networks, women can continue to make significant impacts and achieve success. The dedication and talent of women in EMS ensure a bright and dynamic future, driving progress and excellence in emergency medical services.

For those interested in starting or advancing their EMS careers, Unitek’s EMT Boot Camp offers a comprehensive program designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge. Explore tips for success as an EMT and learn about alternative jobs for EMTs and Paramedics, as well as top EMT specialties to consider. Unitek provides a valuable resource for those looking to excel in the field and seize new opportunities.