Implementing an Evidence-based Wellness Program for EMS Professionals

The Goal of Public Safety is to support, “A secure and resilient nation with capabilities required across the whole community to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from the threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk (Department of Homeland Security, 2022).” A critical component of the public safety infrastructure is the people. With the rising trends in posttraumatic stress, anxiety and depression facing the population, many departments are turning towards implementation of robust wellness programs in which to address these issues.
But implementing a wellness program is not a simple task. Often, individuals are tasked with implementing a program with little to no background in complex issues that would be addressed through a comprehensive wellness program. Passion for the subject can only take an individual so far, and sustained efforts require an evidence- based framework in which to implement, intervene, and demonstrate effectiveness of the wellness program for the public safety organization.
This presentation will review the steps in implementing an evidence-based wellness program that will be tailored towards the needs of the emergency medical professional population, provide solutions that apply across all public safety professions, and address the opportunities and challenges inherent in implementing wellness programs.