Concerns grow over lack of EMS workers in Eastern North Carolina

LENOIR COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) — Across Eastern North Carolina, there’s growing concerns over the lack of EMS workers.

The issue is affecting both volunteer and paid EMS workers, putting communities at risk. The shortage of workers is making it harder to respond to 911 calls.

EMS Director of Lenoir County Murry Stroud said many rural areas rely heavily on volunteers, but that has become extremely difficult. Many people aren’t interested in volunteering anymore and the commitment may be hard to balance with work and family life.

Paid EMS services are also feeling the crunch. The issue isn’t just in Lenoir County, but several other areas such as Onslow, Pitt, Duplin and more places across Eastern North Carolina.

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