UCHealth startet ein Programm zur Förderung der psychischen Gesundheit von Rettungssanitätern

UCHealth is taking steps to improve the mental health of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics in the Denver area through its new Medic Program, introduced in 2023. Paramedics often arrive first on scene during medical emergencies, crime scenes, or accidents, facing situations that can be challenging to process.

As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, UCHealth is highlighting how the Medic Program aims to strengthen the mental well-being of these first responders. Marc Scherschel, senior director of pre-hospital care at UCHealth, emphasizes the emotional toll that the job can take. Having spent years working on the front lines, he has witnessed a range of responses from routine calls to traumatic incidents.

“There’s a wide variability in what these professionals experience day to day,” Scherschel said. He noted that the field currently faces a shortage of EMTs and paramedics, driven by factors such as job-related stress, pay, and burnout. Leaders in the Denver metro area are actively seeking to recruit more personnel to address these shortages.

The Medic Program offers various resources aimed at supporting the mental health of EMTs and paramedics. Scherschel explained that the program includes training on how to utilize support systems effectively, such as peer support and buddy systems. “We incorporate these mental health resources into our curriculum because it is essential for our responders to know when and how to reach out for help,” he said.

The program not only trains EMTs and paramedics in their roles but also provides practical strategies for maintaining mental wellness. Scherschel warned that without proper coping mechanisms, burnout can occur rapidly in this demanding field. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for mental health support within emergency services, aiming to create a healthier work environment for those who serve the community on the front lines.

As UCHealth continues to develop and implement this program, the hope is that it will lead to a more sustainable workforce and better mental health outcomes for EMTs and paramedics in Colorado.