Research – Mental Health in Paramedics

The AEAV has been asked to circulate the attached flyer with regards to a research project on the Mental Health of Paramedics. Have included the below introductory email to give you some more background into the research. If you wish to take part please contact Tim Rankin via email: trankin@our.ecu.edu.au or Ph: 08 6304 3453.

Dear AEAVic,

I am a Master by Research student at Edith Cowan University. I am seeking assistance with the recruitment of paramedics for my study and was hoping to find out if Ambulance Employees Australia Victoria can assist and the process required for this to occur.

My research is centered around the mental health of Australian paramedics. Specifically, I aim to investigate the factors associated with mental health outcomes in Australian paramedics. The mental health outcomes under investigation include anxiety, depression and PTSD symptomatology. The factors that may be associated include organizational and operational stress, fatigue, burnout, chronic pain, social networks, perceived social support, physical activity and sleep quality. We are also measuring the quality of life of paramedics (beyond the confines of health-related outcomes).

While it appears to be an extensive project, the participants will take 20-30 minutes to complete the booklet of questionnaires and this can be completed in the comfort of their own home across several days (if required).

The assistance I am requesting from AEAV is the recruitment of practicing paramedics by emailing my recruitment flyer out to paramedic members. On the flyer, paramedics are directed to email me to express their interest in participating in the study. I will then post out a pre-coded package containing an information letter, a consent form and the questionnaire booklet. Once complete, the participant will be required to return the package in the pre-paid return envelope provided.

Ethics has been approved by the Edith Cowan University Human Research Ethics Committee (application 17098).

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information. I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards,

Tim Rankin

Master by Research Candidate
Emergency Services Research Group (Jones Lab)
School of Medical and Health Sciences
Edith Cowan University
E: trankin@our.ecu.edu.au