What is the IAEP?
The IAEP is the International Association of EMTs and Paramedics, and is a division of the National Association of Government Employees / SEIU Local 5000. The group represents thousands of EMS and EMT professionals across the country, includes more than 50 locals, and is active in more than 30 states. The EMS labor organizations work together to promote pro-EMS legislation, providing support for EMTs, EMT paramedics and other EMS personnel. The IAEP states a solemn agreement to continue to pledge themselves to improve the general welfare of all EMT employees, their families, and their dependents. The association is at the forefront for EMTs, EMT paramedics and other EMS workers.
Recently the IAEP joined affiliation with the EMSLA (Emergency Medical Service Labor Alliance). “This is a huge step forward for IAEP members everywhere,” said National Director Philip Petit. “This will allow us to continue to be at the forefront of pro-EMS legislation as well as shaping the future of the EMS profession as a whole. While we have worked with EMSLA closely in the past, this affiliation will allow the IAEP to help shape their goals and work with them for the change that will aid EMS professionals around the country.”
The IAEP and EMSLA group effectively increases communication between stand-alone municipal and private EMS groups and is committed to enhancing the field of EMS workers globally. The mission of promoting a closer bond among the member organizations and employees they represent continues to gain EMSLA a larger following. First responders, EMTs and EMT paramedics and many other EMS professionals have a strong support through the EMSLA.
Purpose and Focus
The main focus of the IAEP and EMSLA has been the updated EMS White Paper and moving EMS from the Department of Transportation to the Department of Homeland Security.
The IAEP and EMSLA organizations wear many hats and the representatives are EMS and paramedic professionals themselves. Thus they can understand and assist in the issues relating to this unique profession. IAEP provides EMS and EMT paramedic members with several services including grievance filing, contract interpretation, and arbitration. It also offers scholarships, family benefits, credit and financial counseling, as well as travel, entertainment and recreation discounts.