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BOSTON (WBZNewsRadio) - Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, along with the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), and the Boston Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have reached a new collective bargaining agreement covering EMTs, Paramedics, Lieutenants and Captains of Boston EMS.
"I am so grateful to all the members of Boston EMS for their service and proud that this contract was settled through our shared commitment to delivering on reforms that will enhance the care we provide our residents, particularly the most vulnerable," said Mayor Wu.
The agreement raises wages to a starting rate of $33 per hour, along with a cost-of-living wage increase, and a Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) Care adjustment, which will expand behavioral health services while responding to mental health emergencies in the city.
“The men and women of Boston EMS have adapted to new clinical standards, expectations, and innovations, over the years, through a commitment to doing what is in the best interest of our residents and our patients. MIH has been no exception,” said Chief of Department James Hooley.
“We are proud that Boston EMS was the first EMS in the Commonwealth to be approved for Mobile Integrated Health Care Emergency Department Avoidance. The department works tirelessly to serve patients across all neighborhoods, with compassion and dignity, and the best possible care,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston and Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission.
As first responders face a critical worker shortage, Boston EMS hopes the agreement will not only help retain current members but entice other certified EMTs to come work for the department. What's more, the contract also temporarily suspends the residency requirement for employees for a three year period.
“This contract is about change,” said Matt Anderson, president of the BPPA-EMS Division. “We are writing history, redefining what it means to provide emergency medical services in Boston.”
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