The Role of Alcohol in EMS Culture: Perspectives from Frontline Providers

Alcohol use among emergency medical service (EMS) providers is an emerging concern given the demanding and stressful nature of the profession, although little research has explored how alcohol fits within EMS culture. This study examined EMS providers’ perceptions of alcohol use and how it intersects with their occupation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 providers from non-fire-based EMS agencies across the United States. Participants represented a range of licensure levels, agency sizes, geographic regions, and drinking patterns. Interviews explored perceptions of alcohol use, workplace norms, and organizational influences related to drinking. Data were analyzed using an inductive qualitative approach to identify common themes across interviews. Participants described alcohol use as a driving force for social bonding, stress relief, and informal coping with the demands of the job. These findings highlight the importance of considering occupational culture and social norms when developing strategies to address alcohol use and support workforce health in EMS.