I recently hosted a series of Rural EMS Summits for our local EMS and fire departments. Approximately 50 people, largely volunteers, representing more than 20 different departments attended. The concerns raised at these sessions were much more consistent across geography than at my general listening sessions. Many of the concerns shared in Crawford County were the same as those raised in Green County.

This was my third round of EMS Summits since 2019, and my past sessions have played an important role in shaping my legislative priorities related to EMS. Several bills I have authored to support EMS funding and recruitment originated from ideas shared at previous summits, including my three EMS bills I authored this session.

Recruitment challenges were a major topic of discussion. I heard concerns that the initial training requirements are too intensive, requiring too many hours and covering skills that are unnecessary for entry-level volunteers. Many departments are also facing demographic challenges. The core group of volunteers at many departments is getting older, while younger individuals often face competing demands from college, family, and careers, making it more difficult for them to volunteer.

Many attendees spoke from personal experience about the difficulty of attracting new volunteers. A common concern is the significant time commitment. Calls come at all hours of the day and night. Covering shifts, especially during work hours, can be challenging. Volunteers also spend many additional hours on fundraisers, training, and community events.

I received several specific ideas on how to recruit and retain volunteers. Attendees generally agreed there needs to be a way to make required refresher courses more engaging and applicable to their work. There was general agreement that it should be easier for those who let their license lapse due to personal reasons, such as having to take care of parents or the demands of parenting, to renew their license without starting over. The state should also make it easier for healthcare professionals to use their skills within their local EMS departments.

Workplace policies were another major barrier to recruitment. Volunteers suggested the state could incentivize businesses to allow employees to respond to emergency calls during the workday when their communities need them. Another common idea was encouraging partnerships between schools and EMS departments to introduce middle school and high school students to what local EMS departments do and get them interested in volunteering in the future.

EMS volunteers are incredibly valuable to our communities. When emergencies happen, we all need someone to respond. Our local departments are always in need of more volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with your community’s EMS department, please contact your local EMS department. A list of EMS departments can be found on the Department of Health Service (DHS) website

If you need assistance with any state-related matters, please call my team at the State Capitol – 608-266-0703 – or email me – Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. My team is ready and willing to help navigate your state government, clear obstacles, and receive your input.