Korean firefighters visit University of Arizona to learn about firefighter health research
The Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research at the Zuckerman College of Public Health at the University of Arizona hosted a team of firefighter paramedics from South Korea to share information on firefighter health research and practice in collaboration with the Tucson Fire Department.
In November 2024, the South Korea Paramedic US EMS Overseas Training Team visited the University of Arizona in Tucson for a two-day immersive program organized by the Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research (CFHCR) at the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health (MEZCOPH) at the University of Arizona. The program focused on firefighter health research and emergency medical services. The Korean team consisted of 14 paramedics working at fire stations across South Korea, all eager to learn from cutting-edge research and training practices in the United States.
Guided by Dr. Jeff Burgess, a global leader in firefighter health research, and his team of researchers and staff from the CFHCR, the visit inspired future research and collaboration. The South Korean paramedics were deeply impressed by the partnership between Dr. Burgess’s team and the Tucson Fire Department, as well as the innovative research initiatives that address the unique risks faced by firefighters. Special thanks to Dr. Sarah Yeo, an NIH T32 Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Arizona Cancer Center and an alumna of the college, who did so much to help coordinate the visit and welcome the firefighter paramedics from South Korea!
Day 1: Research and Innovation
The first day began with a visit to the University of Arizona’s Medical Research Building, where the team explored various groundbreaking research projects aimed at improving firefighter health. These included:
- The Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study
- Research on MRSA and Station Design
- Studies on COVID-19 Risks in Firefighters
- Mental health risks and treatments specific to firefighter well-being
The team had the opportunity to tour Dr. Jeff Burgess’s lab, where they observed firsthand the impactful work being conducted to address critical health challenges faced by firefighters. Additionally, Dr. Joshua B. Gaither, MD - EMS Fellowship Director and Medical Director for Tucson Fire Department - led an engaging tour of the Emergency Department and introduced the team to several EMS operations.
Day 2: Training Facilities and Collaboration
On the second day, the team visited the Tucson Fire Department and toured the Public Safety Academy, a premier training center for Southern Arizona law enforcement and fire agencies. The experience provided valuable insight into advanced firefighter training methods. The day concluded with a visit to the Pima Community College Paramedic Training Center, where the team observed state-of-the-art training techniques for EMS professionals.
Advancing Firefighter Health in South Korea
This visit comes at a significant time for South Korea, as the country prepares to open its first National Firefighter Hospital in 2025. The facility will include a dedicated Firefighter Health Research Institute, and this exposure to research and training in Tucson may serve as an inspiration for developing similar initiatives in South Korea.
The visit underscored the importance of global collaboration and knowledge-sharing to ensure the health and safety of those who protect our communities. The 2024 South Korea Paramedic US EMS Overseas Training Team’s time in Tucson not only strengthened ties between the two regions but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships in firefighter health research and innovation.