Buchanan County EMS program aims to tackle paramedic shortage

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Buchanan County EMS paramedic program is helping trainees succeed while also easing emergency service staffing shortages.

Buchanan County EMS is currently in its third year of its paramedic program, which provides comprehensive training and the skills needed to respond to medical emergencies. 

"Chillicothe is the closest paramedic program we had," said Joe Pike, Buchanan County EMS education coordinator. "There was a dire need for one in the community, and we've accomplished it. It's not an easy process, but so far, we've been successful with it."

With EMS crews nationwide working to address staffing issues, local emergency officials are also aiming to grow their paramedic class each year. 

Over the past three years, the Buchanan County EMS program has averaged about eight applicants each year, all of whom have gone on to become certified paramedics upon completing their training.

The main goal is to enroll around 10 paramedic students each year, which officials hope will help address the ongoing shortage.

"We have nearly a 100% passing rate. Everyone who has attended the course has gone on to get their paramedic license," said Joe Pike, Buchanan County EMS education coordinator. "There are three students in the 2025 class right now who walked into this building and started in EMT class with no prior medical training whatsoever. Now that they're in paramedic school, I fully expect them to succeed and become certified paramedics."

With the 2025 class approaching graduation, BCEMS is currently accepting applications for the 2026 paramedic program, which will remain open until September 1.

The program requires an EMT-Basic license and runs over 11 months, from January to November 2026.

"It's a pretty lengthy process, and they've already gone through quite a bit just to get into the course," Pike said. "What they've faced so far is not even the tip of the iceberg. They still have a lot of work ahead, but they've quickly learned what we expect of them to make it through."

More information about program requirements and costs can be found at www.bc-ems.com/paramedic-program.