Attitudes and Beliefs of Wildland Firefighters Toward Occupational Health Services

Access to occupational health services for wildland firefighters is readily available in the form of emergency medical care. However, a lack of regular access to physical medicine and the continuation of care beyond acute treatment was apparent. Improving access to physical medicine rehabilitation could improve the health of wildland firefighters. Wildland firefighters (WLFFs) are at an increased risk of health conditions, injuries, and illnesses related to sustained levels of intense physical activity. The purpose of this study was to identify and explore the current attitudes and beliefs of WLFFs regarding health services. Methods: We used consensual qualitative research design for this study. Participants engaged in an online, semistructured interview. Results: We identified four domains: (1) risk mitigation strategies, (2) culture of fire services, (3) access to health care services, and 4) identification of health care gap. Conclusions: Access to occupational health services for WLFFs is readily available in the form of emergency medical care. However, a lack of regular access to physical medicine and the continuation of care beyond acute treatment was apparent.