Beaufort County, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort County EMS is set to introduce a new scheduling model next year, offering an additional day off following 24-hour shifts to enhance work-life balance and assist in recruitment. The change is a response to staffing challenges noted in a 2017 study and aims to reduce employee burnout. The new schedule has already sparked increased job applications. Additionally, the county is preparing a budget exceeding $199 million for improved EMS services and infrastructure projects.
Beaufort County, SC—Beaufort County EMS is set to implement a new scheduling system in the upcoming year aimed at enhancing employee work-life balance and aiding in recruitment efforts amidst ongoing staffing challenges. Starting next year, EMS workers will receive an additional day off following their 24-hour shifts, transitioning from the current 24-hour on, 48-hour off policy.
The decision to revise the working schedule comes in the wake of a 2017 workforce study conducted by the state EMS association, which pointed to a nationwide shortage of paramedics and EMTs, leaving many departments operating below optimal staff levels. Departments that successfully retain their employees often utilize a 24-72 scheduling model, offering more time between shifts, which Beaufort County EMS is now planning to adopt.
Following the announcement of this new schedule, Beaufort County EMS has reported a positive response in job applications, indicating that the changes are resonating with potential recruits. EMS officials believe this improved schedule will help alleviate burnout among current employees and attract new talent into the field.
Paramedic Crew Chief AJ Drake has emphasized the benefits of the new scheduling format, highlighting that the additional off-day will allow staff to engage in personal interests and manage stress levels more effectively. Importantly, the EMS department anticipates that the adjustments to the schedule will not negatively impact emergency response times or overall performance capabilities.
If additional personnel can be hired by the end of the year, the department expects to transition to the new schedule even sooner, further improving the operational efficiency of Beaufort County EMS.
The county is currently preparing its budget for fiscal year 2026, which is projected to exceed $199 million—a substantial 20% increase from the previous year. This budget includes allocations for a fourth shift for EMS, alongside salary increases for early career officers in the sheriff’s department. Notably, the county indicated that its tax rate will not be rising for the upcoming fiscal year.
The budget’s general fund will prioritize operating expenses, while specific programs and needs will receive funding from special revenue funds. The EMS department is set to benefit from an additional $1.65 million supporting the new salary structure, which includes a significant cut in the overtime budget, decreasing from $3.2 million to $1.5 million.
The planned enhancements for the sheriff’s department also include raising starting salaries for deputies to $60,000. Additionally, the Solicitor’s Office will see a funding increase of 57%, from $1.7 million to $2.8 million, responding to previous budget stagnation.
Moreover, the proposed budget encompasses an allocation of more than $36 million dedicated to 92 infrastructure projects aimed at meeting various community requirements. The funded projects will address road improvements, library renovations, and improvements to mosquito control facilities, all tied to the capital improvement fund.
Conclusion
The implementation of the new scheduling model at Beaufort County EMS is an essential step towards addressing workforce challenges and improving employee satisfaction. The financial backing from the upcoming budget further underlines the county’s commitment to enhancing emergency medical services and supporting community infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new schedule for Beaufort County EMS?
Beaufort County EMS will be shifting to a schedule that includes an additional day off after each 24-hour shift, moving from the current 24-hour on, 48-hour off model.
Why is Beaufort County EMS implementing this change?
The change aims to improve work-life balance for employees, help with recruitment, and address ongoing staffing shortages in the EMS field.
Will the response times for emergencies be affected?
No, the EMS department expects that response times and the ability to react to emergencies will remain unaffected by the new schedule.
How is the county budget supporting these changes?
The fiscal year 2026 budget allocates $1.65 million for new salaries and includes funding for a fourth shift for EMS, among other enhancements.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Schedule | Transition to 24-hour on, 48-hour off with an additional day off. |
| Recruitment Tool | Improves work-life balance to attract more applicants. |
| Budget Increase | Proposed budget exceeds $199 million, includes salary support. |
| Overtime Reduction | Decrease in overtime budget from $3.2 million to $1.5 million. |
| Infrastructure Projects | Over $36 million allocated for various community projects. |
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Beaufort County EMS Faces Big Changes
- Wikipedia: Emergency Medical Services
- Island Packet: Beaufort County News Article
- Google Search: Beaufort County EMS
- Live 5 News: Beaufort County House Fire Now Considered Suspicious
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ambulance
- WITN: Beaufort County Community College Uses Grant for New Ambulance Training
- Google News: Beaufort County News
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
