March 25, 2024
As part of an innovative program to fill the pipeline of skilled paramedics, Maricopa Ambulance is pleased to welcome two Australian paramedics to its Phoenix, Arizona, operation. The paramedics are graduates of the International EMS Workforce Initiative, a program founded by Priority Ambulance, Maricopa Ambulance’s parent company.
EMS staff shortages nationwide have continued to make news headlines, creating an urgency to find probable and long-term solutions to staffing struggles. This challenge has also spotlighted the need for EMS agencies to get creative in the ways they implement recruitment and retention strategies.
As the second-largest private medical transportation company in the nation, Priority Ambulance has a proven history of developing innovative and successful solutions to enhance medical care for its more than 800,000 patients each year. This includes cultivating positive career growth opportunities for EMS personnel both in the states and abroad.
“The International EMS Workforce Initiative is another example of our company’s commitment to enhancing the care received for our community members and our dedication to creating and supporting dependable and successful recruitment and retention strategies. We are excited to welcome Jean and Naomi to the Maricopa Ambulance family,” said Alan Smith, West Regional President for Priority Ambulance.
The International EMS Workforce Initiative provides Australian paramedics the training needed to become fully certified paramedics in the United States. Students will participate in an eight-week paramedic boot camp with Priority’s partner, Faithful Guardian Training Center, at their facility in Georgia. Students in the program receive free training, transportation, and housing. After completing the program and certification as a National Registered Paramedic, graduates are offered a full-time position with the company at one of Priority Ambulance Family of Companies brands within 14 states nationwide, subject to a 24-month employment commitment.
Applications for the company’s Spring and Fall 2024 classes are now open. To learn more about the program, visit www.iemswi.com.