Introduction: From its beginnings, the provision of emergency medical services in the United States has been a male-dominated occupation. The objective of this exploratory study was to determine if and how such issues might influence partner preferences of male and female emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
Methods: Initially, unstructured interviews were conducted with 10 EMS workers enrolled in a paramedic training program in order to see whether and how such issues might affect partner preferences. From the data obtained during these interviews, a questionnaire was developed and distributed to participants in an annual meeting of Louisiana Association of Nationally Registered EMTs. Participation was voluntary and uncompensated.
Results: A total of 49 EMTs (22 women, 27 men) completed the questionnaire. The major gender-related issues could be classified into three dimensions: 1) physical strength; 2) assumption of authoritative roles; and 3) structural (organizational) preparedness to implement gender--friendly working environment. In general, the gender of a partner now "makes no difference".
Conclusions: Overall, the EMS work worlds are reflective of the larger society of which they are a part. Now is the time for EMS systems to examine the gendered nature of their organization and of the issues of gendered expectations prevalent in EMS work. Future research should document the changes now due in the field of emergency medical services.