Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals consistently ranks high among America’s riskiest professions. Compared to the general workforce, EMTs have a higher incidence of work-related injuries, and they are three times more likely to sustain injuries and require time off from work than workers in private industries.
Therefore, EMS professionals must be aware of the most common injuries in their line of work and take the necessary steps like purchasing 24 Hour Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance to ensure financial protection in the event of an accident.
Why is 24 Hour Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance Beneficial for EMS Professionals?
A 24 Hour Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance policy provides a lump-sum benefit to the insured or their beneficiaries in the event of accidental death or dismemberment. The coverage typically extends 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and covers accidents that occur both on and off the job.
Without a 24 Hour Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance policy, the financial consequences of an unexpected accident can be significant. Suppose the insured or their family does not have adequate savings to cover the costs associated with an accident. In that case, it may force them to rely on other sources of financial assistance, such as loans, credit cards, or even government assistance.
Common Injuries That EMS Professionals Suffer
Based on the findings compiled by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), here are the five most commonly reported injuries EMS professionals encountered in 2020.
Overexertion & Bodily Reaction
Physical strains and overexertion that affect the tendons, joints, nerves, spinal discs, cartilage, and muscles can cause overexertion and bodily reaction injuries. These injuries are common among EMS professionals due to the physically demanding nature of their work, such as lifting and moving patients and carrying heavy equipment.
In 2020, EMS professionals reported over 5,200 cases of overexertion and bodily reaction, which accounted for 31% of all their injuries.
Violence
As part of their job, EMS professionals frequently encounter situations where individuals may suffer from impairment due to drugs or alcohol, causing physical harm and psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to the EMS professionals involved.
According to the NIOSH report, 3,000 reported violence cases against EMS professionals, accounting for 18% of all reported injuries.
Harmful Exposures That EMS Professionals Face
Harmful exposures in EMS refer to situations where EMS professionals are exposed to hazardous materials, chemicals, or infectious diseases while performing their duties.
Although EMS professionals receive training to take precautions to minimize their exposure to harmful materials, they are still at risk of exposure due to the nature of their work. And based on a similar report, 2,500 or 15% of all reported injuries are related to harmful exposures.
Transportation Incidents
Transportation incidents in EMS refer to any accidents, collisions, or other incidents while an EMS vehicle is in motion, transporting patients or responding to emergency calls. Similar to the harmful exposure data, 2,500 reported transportation-related incidents accounted for 15% of all reported injuries.
Contact with Objects & Equipment
EMS providers use a wide range of equipment and tools, which can cause injury if not used properly. Common contact injuries include needlestick injuries while administering injections and burns caused by hot substances.
Based on the NIOSH findings, 2,100 reported cases of contact with objects and equipment in 2020, accounting for 12% of all reported injuries.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.