by HARRISBURG, PA — May 2025
In anticipation of EMS Week (May 18–24), the Pennsylvania Department of Health has launched a new statewide initiative to recruit more emergency medical service (EMS) professionals. Partnering with all 13 regional EMS councils, this campaign aims to address the growing need for first responders across the state.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration is backing the effort with a multi-million-dollar investment to strengthen emergency medical coverage, especially in underserved communities.
What Happened
On May 15, 2025, Executive Deputy Secretary Kristen Rodack visited AMED Authority EMS to officially kick off the recruitment campaign.
The initiative will feature statewide EMS career days, where prospective candidates can engage with local responders and learn about careers in emergency medical services.
Key Details
- Initiative Launch: May 15, 2025
- EMS Week: May 18–24
- First Career Day Events: May 18 in Blair and Mercer counties
- Partners: PA Department of Health and 13 regional EMS councils
Budget Investment:
Governor Shapiro’s 2025–26 proposal includes $6 million annually for three years for the EMS Operating Fund. Funds will support local station recruitment, retention, and staffing needs.
Impact:
- Helps cover EMS shortages in rural and urban areas
- Supports 24/7 emergency care availability
- Builds a workforce pipeline for future EMS professionals
Reactions or Statements
“Providing 24-hour access to emergency care is no easy feat because every call for help has unique circumstances and many EMS services are stretched thin,” said Kristen Rodack, Executive Deputy Secretary of the PA Department of Health.
“We need to work together to create a pipeline of Pennsylvanians who want to serve their communities as EMS professionals.”
Investigation or What’s Next
The new funding will be distributed through regional EMS councils to local agencies.
Each agency is tasked with creating outreach programs to boost recruitment and improve workforce retention.
This initiative builds on Act 15 of 2023, signed by Governor Shapiro, which secured nearly $140 million per year in EMS investments.
FAQs
Q: What is the goal of the new EMS initiative?
A: To recruit more EMS professionals and ensure full emergency coverage across Pennsylvania.
Q: Who is funding this program?
A: Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget allocates $6 million per year over the next three years.
Q: Where will the first events take place?
A: The kickoff events are scheduled in Blair and Mercer counties on May 18, 2025.
Q: How can I learn more about becoming an EMS worker?
A: Visit the PA Department of Health’s EMS FAQ page for career information and requirements.
Q: Why is this initiative important?
A: It addresses workforce shortages and ensures 24/7 emergency response availability statewide.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Pennsylvania’s 2025 EMS recruitment campaign is a bold step toward strengthening emergency medical services across the state. With millions in new funding and coordinated outreach through all regional EMS councils, the state is investing heavily in protecting public health and building a reliable EMS workforce for years to come.
