Global recruitment

The first International Paramedics Day on 8th July 2022 provided a timely opportunity to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of the paramedic profession in the United Kingdom (UK), also highlighting many achievements of the profession and paramedics. Over recent years, ambulance and health services have welcomed international paramedics into their workforce, bringing a new perspective of knowledge, skills and approaches in paramedic and emergency/urgent care. Historically, wider health professions have recognised the importance of international professionals in the development of workforce supply, and their positive contributions to the profession, organisations, teams and, ultimately, patient care. However, increased recruitment of international paramedics requires regulators, commissioners and providers to continually review their approach and work diligently to ensure professional recognition, support and team integration.

High vacancy levels within the profession, with paramedics leaving or moving to opportunities across wider health services, alongside lengthier degree-level qualifications, and a system with ever-increasing demand further contribute to the complexities of attracting, developing and retaining paramedics. Competitive job opportunities and reported burnout (Beldon and Garside, 2022) have also led to some providers losing more paramedics than can be recruited. International recruitment provides a solution to many challenges; however, paramedics are people first and transition to UK practice requires careful consideration, a commitment to pastoral care, and practice and cultural adaptation, at a challenging time in healthcare.