Charlotte, January 29, 2026
The Mecklenburg EMS Agency, known as Medic, is expanding its services in Charlotte by adding 50 new Emergency Medical Technicians and acquiring 10 more ambulances. This expansion aims to enhance response times and improve the allocation of emergency resources. The initiative includes a financial commitment of $499,035 annually to support the Charlotte Fire Department’s EMS efforts, addressing the growing demand for emergency medical care in the region.
Charlotte, NC – Mecklenburg EMS Agency, commonly known as Medic, is actively implementing a significant expansion of its services in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, introducing more staff and ambulances to address the increasing demand for emergency medical care. This initiative, part of an agreement for the 2025-26 fiscal year, aims to enhance response times and optimize the allocation of emergency resources across the region.
Medic Bolsters Staff and Fleet to Meet Growing Demand
Medic is adding 50 new Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and acquiring 10 additional ambulances during the current 2025-26 fiscal year. This strategic boost in resources is designed to improve overall emergency response capabilities and reduce the Charlotte Fire Department’s involvement in non-emergency calls. Mecklenburg County’s budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year includes the necessary funding for these new EMT positions and ambulances. The agency has also stated its commitment to adding further staff annually as needed to sustain these improvements.
The agreement, which facilitates these enhancements, also stipulates that Medic will provide the city of Charlotte with a monthly first responder subsidy of $41,586.25, amounting to $499,035 annually. This funding is directed towards supporting the Charlotte Fire Department’s EMS work, medical supplies, and equipment. The overarching goal is to strengthen the emergency medical services system for the long term and ensure that critical resources are available for genuine emergencies.
Addressing Rising Call Volumes and Hospital Strain
The expansion comes as emergency services face persistent challenges, including a recent surge in emergency room visits. On January 28, 2026, reports indicated a notable increase in patients presenting at emergency rooms in Charlotte and across North Carolina with issues related to cannabis use. These cases, particularly among young men, involve symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, characteristic of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Such increases in patient volume at hospitals can indirectly contribute to the overall demand placed on EMS for transport and immediate care.
Medic maintains a substantial operational capacity, currently deploying over 100 top-of-the-line ambulances, alongside mass casualty vehicles and other emergency response assets. These vehicles are custom-designed based on employee feedback and are diligently maintained by Medic’s dedicated Fleet Department.
Investing in Personnel and Future Growth
To attract and retain qualified professionals, Medic offers competitive compensation packages and comprehensive benefits. Entry-level EMTs start at $20 per hour, while Paramedics and Telecommunicators begin at $25 per hour, with opportunities for increased pay based on experience. The agency also provides annual performance increases and a Performance Pay Program that can offer up to $3,000 per year.
Recognizing the importance of a robust workforce, Medic provides various incentives for new hires. EMTs may be eligible for a $1,500 sign-on bonus, and Paramedics can receive a $6,000 sign-on bonus. Furthermore, Medic supports career advancement through its EMT-Paramedic Incentive Program. EMTs aspiring to become Paramedics can receive tuition reimbursement of up to $1,500 for tuition, books, and materials, an immediate 5% pay increase, and additional bonuses of $1,250 upon program completion and another $1,250 one year post-graduation. The program also includes provisions for study leave and accommodating work shifts to facilitate student success. Monthly continuing education is provided to Paramedics, EMTs, and telecommunicators, exceeding the hours required for recertification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many new EMTs and ambulances is Medic adding in Charlotte?
Medic is adding 50 new Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and acquiring 10 additional ambulances during the 2025-26 fiscal year.
What is the purpose of Medic’s expansion?
The expansion aims to improve overall emergency response capabilities, enhance response times, and reduce the Charlotte Fire Department’s involvement in non-emergency calls.
What financial contribution does Medic make to the city of Charlotte?
Medic provides the city of Charlotte with a monthly first responder subsidy of $41,586.25, amounting to $499,035 annually.
What factors are contributing to increased demand on emergency services?
Emergency rooms in Charlotte and across North Carolina are seeing a recent surge in patients, particularly young men, reporting symptoms related to cannabis use, which can indirectly contribute to EMS call volume.
What incentives does Medic offer for new hires?
Medic offers sign-on bonuses of $1,500 for EMTs and $6,000 for Paramedics.
What support does Medic provide for EMTs pursuing a Paramedic career?
EMTs pursuing a Paramedic career can receive tuition reimbursement of up to $1,500 for tuition, books, and materials, an immediate 5% pay increase, and additional bonuses of $1,250 upon program completion and another $1,250 one year post-graduation.
How many ambulances does Medic currently operate?
Medic currently operates over 100 top-of-the-line ambulances.
Key Features of Medic’s Expansion and Operations
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| New EMT Hires (2025-26 Fiscal Year) | 50 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| New Ambulances (2025-26 Fiscal Year) | 10 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| Annual Subsidy to Charlotte Fire Department | $499,035 | Charlotte |
| EMT Sign-on Bonus | $1,500 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| Paramedic Sign-on Bonus | $6,000 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| Paramedic Program Tuition Reimbursement | Up to $1,500 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| Current Ambulance Fleet Size | Over 100 | Charlotte / Mecklenburg County |
| Recent ER Visit Surge Factor | Cannabis-related symptoms | Charlotte / North Carolina |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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