RURAL EMS VOLUNTEER INSURANCE

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Utah is largely made up of rural areas and public lands, inclusive of five national parks. Our vast and beautiful landscape gains the attention of tourists and recreationists from all around the globe. But who responds when someone requires medical attention? In rural Utah, where several of our nation’s parks are located, emergency medical services are generally provided by volunteers. However, for various reasons, local governmental agencies are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain volunteer EMS personnel. Through a partnership of local agencies, the Utah Association of Counties, and the State of Utah, a solution was found that would incentivize individuals to volunteer their time to help others when a medical emergency arises. UAC lobbied, and was successful in receiving, an appropriation from the state legislature for funding to provide health insurance benefits to our rural volunteers. By becoming a trained volunteer, an individual who dedicates their time to helping others in time of need, is now eligible to receive health insurance. For some, this has been the first time in their life they have been eligible for group health insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents. This program began on July 1, 2022, and has been tremendously effective.