Perceptions of EMS leaders and supervisors on the challenges faced by female paramedics in Riyadh Saudi Arabia: a qualitative study
International Journal of Emergency Services
ISSN: 2047-0894
Article publication date: 6 January 2021
Issue publication date: 21 June 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Saudi female paramedics face many challenges in the current Saudi emergency medical service (EMS). This study aimed to investigate perceptions of EMS experts, leaders, managers and academics about the challenges faced by Saudi female paramedics in the Saudi Arabian EMS workforce.
Design/methodology/approach
A descriptive qualitative research approach was used employing semi-structured face-to-face interviews with seven EMS leaders, managers and academics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by the work of Braun and Clark.
Findings
Three themes emerged from the interviews that described EMS experts' perceptions, namely, cultural and family challenges, the value of Saudi female paramedics in the workforce and workforce issues.
Originality/value
Overall, the interviews revealed that Saudi females faced several challenges that could affect their job duties and capacity to work in the EMS. Currently, Saudi females face difficulties with family, social and religious responsibilities, such as taking care of children and homes. Workforce issues were also considered problems that affect Saudi female paramedics in the workplace, such as physical fitness and psychological burnout. The EMS leaders, managers and academics emphasised that due to the new Saudi 2030 vision, it is expected and recognised that more females need to be employed in the EMS workforce.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Declaration: Along with myself, Prof Brett Williams, Assoc Prof Cameron Gosling and Prof. Lisa McKenna confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest associated with this publication. There has been no financial support for this work that could have influenced its outcome.
Citation
ALobaid, A.M., Gosling, C., McKenna, L. and Williams, B. (2021), "Perceptions of EMS leaders and supervisors on the challenges faced by female paramedics in Riyadh Saudi Arabia: a qualitative study", International Journal of Emergency Services, Vol. 10 No. 2, pp. 235-246. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJES-09-2020-0055
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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