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Episode 4: Ambulance deserts: A critical challenge for EMS leadership in achieving equitable emergency care access

Episode 4: Ambulance deserts: A critical challenge for EMS leadership in achieving equitable emergency care access

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 This podcast interviews lead author Raphael Barishansky, DrPH, about the editorial entitled, " Ambulance deserts: A critical challenge for EMS leadership in achieving equitable emergency care access." It appeared in the July-September 2025 (#11) issue of the International Journal of Paramedicine (IJOP). The interview was conducted by IJOP's Editor-In-Chief, Mic Gunderson. Manuscript Link: https://internationaljournalofparamedicine.com/index.php/ijop/article/view/3414 Questions and Comments You are invited to ask questions and make comments about this and other papers in NEMSMA's online discussion group at: https://groups.google.com/g/nemsma/. Look for the messages with the [IJOP 3414] header. Abstract The growing prevalence of ambulance deserts—geographic areas where residents live more than 25 minutes from the nearest ambulance station—poses a critical threat to health equity and public safety in the United States. Rooted in systemic underinvestment, workforce shortages, and fragmented policies, these deserts disproportionately affect rural and underserved communities, where response times can exceed 30 to 60 minutes during life-threatening emergencies. This paper examines the structural determinants of ambulance deserts, including the lack of statutory recognition of EMS as an essential service, outdated reimbursement models, and the absence of coordinated sustainability planning. Drawing on two decades of leadership experience across EMS, public health, and government, the author outlines five strategic actions for EMS leaders: securing essential service designation, advancing statewide sustainability plans, advocating for readiness-based funding, expanding Medicaid reimbursement pathways, and strengthening the EMS workforce. The paper also explores global parallels, offering key lessons for international health and emergency systems. Ultimately, ambulance deserts must be reframed as a public health emergency requiring bold leadership, integrated policy reform, and sustained public investment. EMS leaders are uniquely positioned to drive this transformation—if they act decisively and strategically. International Journal of Paramedicine website: https://InternationalJournalOfParamedicine.com
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