Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference (ACPIC24)

ACPIC 2024 delivered a wide range of clinical and research sessions from experts and leaders in paramedicine. Hosted in Sydney (September 2024) the program was designed to inspire, educate and broaden horizons.

Conference theme: Paramedicine's evolution – Embracing the new era

Breaking the stigma – Issues in workforce planning for female paramedics

Despite increased female demographics in paramedicine, unresolved female-specific issues remain concealed or taboo in workforce planning, policies, and procedures. Participants (n=183) completed an anonymous survey about their menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptive history as it relates to their occupation or clinical placement. Human research ethics were approved. Results indicate women working in paramedicine experience adverse effects because of their menstrual cycle. Findings from this study can be used to inform industry policy recommendations to support paramedicine women when menstruating and/or taking hormonal contraception. Female/women used to describe persons assigned female at birth.

Biography: Lisa Hobbs

Lisa Hobbs is a registered paramedic, academic, researcher and visual artist with over 2 decades experience in paramedicine. Her research experience includes a Master of Philosophy, qualitative research utilising Constructivist Grounded Theory. Lisa is a confirmed candidate in a Doctor of Philosophy, her research topic is Women in Paramedicine: Exploring the experiences of female paramedics in Australia through creative research

Moderator: Dr Robin Pap, ACP Research Advisory Committee Chair