PVA has been selected to receive a $4.2 million ARPA Grant from Monroe County to fund an initiative that would pay new emergency medical technician (EMT) candidates to attend an EMT course and cover the associated educational costs in an effort to shore up the local workforce. The funds would also be used similarly for current EMTs who wish to advance their education and become Paramedics. Importantly, the funds will be used to fund and enhance education through existing EMS educational infrastructure within Monroe County through Monroe Community College.
The college, which encompasses the Public Safety Training Facility on Scottsville Road, has trained numerous qualified EMTs since its doors opened in 1974 and has a nationally-accredited and well-respected paramedic program. “Utilizing and enhancing the existing educational infrastructure will help ensure that the funds will be used effectively to remove barriers to the profession, diversify the workforce and assure quality in care delivery for our communities,” says Dr. Maia Dorsett, Medical Director for the Public Safety Training Facility’s EMT and Paramedic programs.
“Historically, the EMT class has been offered in formats that do not align well with recruitment and development of new EMTs,” says Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance Chief, Jonathan Smith. “These dollars will help us attract candidates that may have previously overlooked a career in EMS because the educational requirements conflicted with other work or family commitments.” By paying candidates to attend an EMT course and covering their educational costs, Chief Smith hopes to help potential candidates balance their personal lives with their career aspirations. “This funding is an investment in the existing EMS system that empowers us to break down barriers and partner with people throughout Monroe County who want to care for their communities.”
Read the full press release here: ARPA Grant, May 2023 Media Release