Staff will be added in response to increased demands for service

To meet growing demand for emergency medical services, the Wake County Board of Commissioners today approved 12 new full-time positions for Wake County EMS, strengthening the system’s ability to deliver prompt, compassionate and clinically excellent care to residents in need.

"As our county continues to grow and the demand for emergency services rises, I’m proud that we’re finding meaningful ways to strengthen and support our EMS system,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Investing in our frontline teams ensures that we’re ready to meet the needs of our community, now and in the future.”

Wake County’s population is continuing to increase steadily by about 66 people per day. On average, surveys show that the population is also aging. About 52% of the current population is aged 55 or older. The combination of these factors means that calls for help to Wake County EMS are increasing.

“Wake County EMS has always taken a proactive approach to meeting the needs of our community,” said EMS Director Dr. Jon Studnek. “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 12 new positions will comprise seven paramedics and five EMTs. Applications are now open for the next Wake County EMS Academy in March. More information about hiring is available at wake.gov/emscareers.