SWLA is offering EMT courses as the country recovers from its first responder shortage

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Since the nationwide EMT shortage during the pandemic, the industry has seen a steady increase, Acadian Ambulance officials say.

According to research from Rainbow Restoration, Louisiana stands out with an impressive 67 first responders per 10,000 residents, the highest number in the country.

“With all the industry we have here in southwest Louisiana, EMT basics are the first line of health care and emergency response we have in this area – responding to hurricanes and responding to issues that arise at the facilities said Casey Sullivan-Flood, who works as a paramedic and recruiter for Acadian Ambulance. “But they also respond to these scene emergencies.”

Louisiana has seen tremendous demand for patient services over the last decade, an increase of over 86 percent, and there is always a need for emergency responders as a first stop.

“In our area, we’re constantly going to be hiring EMTs because the way our area is set up, you go in and get your EMT, and then you get your paramedics, and then we have to backfill those EMT roles,” Sullivan said -Flood.

Classes last 16 weeks and teach students basic life-saving skills and emergency procedures. Although no healthcare experience is required, Flood said this is a great opportunity for those looking to pursue a career in medicine.

“You start doing your clinicals and actually interacting with real patients. So if you want to go to medical school or nursing school, this is a really good way to find out if this is right for you,” Sullivan-Flood said.

Class locations include Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Covington, Lafayette, Lake Charles, New Orleans and Thibodeaux.

Acadian Ambulance has openings in Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. Paramedics who have graduated and passed their National Registry exam are eligible to join the company and begin their medical careers.

For more information click here.

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