Beardstown, IL – Beardstown might drop residency requirements for the ambulance paramedics.
Director Jim Brazzl says it's getting harder to find Paramedics willing to work in the community. He says ever-toughening state requirements seem to be creating a shortage.
He says most colleges take about 18-months to give Paramedic training.
However, he says candidates can go for about one more year and become a registered nurse, which will earn them about twice the salary.
He says the mayor will begin discussions with the union on changing the requirements.
More information:
In Beardstown, the ambulance service is co-located with the fire department.
At least one Paramedic is required on a run for an ambulance providing advanced life support facilities and services.
The second medical person on a run can be another Paramedic or an emergency medical technician.