How officials plan to handle the shortage of paramedics in Dawson County
Local officials say that over the last six weeks, three experienced paramedics with the Dawson County Fire Department have left their jobs to take higher-paying positions with departments in surrounding counties.
And while losing three employees might not be a problem in some areas of government, Dawson County Fire Chief Danny Thompson says that the issue of recruitment and retention for small rural counties is a “vicious cycle” that has lasting effects on the county’s budget and on public safety.
Speaking to the Dawson County News following a Board of Commissioners meeting last week, Thompson said the problem facing his department is one that is being played out all across the country, as departments face a shortage of trained paramedics and EMTs while competing with large wealthy counties and private services for applicants.