Pacemakers and Firefighting/Ems

Hi,

I was in the process of getting hired as a firefighter/emt, when after my physical they discovered many PVC's on the EKG.

Long story short, the Cardiologist said I have a Type II AV block and will need a pacemaker, very soon.

Just curious if it is still at all possible to be apart of this profession? Are there any FFs out there with pacemakers? I have been apart of fire service for over 5 years, have a degree in the field, and honestly can't imagine doing anything else. But, if it is truly a lost cause should I start considering another profession?

Any feedback help, thanks!

2 Comments

type II block

by Tracey_E - 2016-05-03 06:05:16

Are you symptomatic? PVC's are annoying but generally considered harmless and they are not fixed by a pacer. It's little half beats between the full beats, the pacer will just watch. 3rd degree block is usually treated, 2nd degree can be watched if you feel good, so as long as you can do what you want and can do your job, don't rush to get the pacer. Have you had a holter to see how often you are in block and how low your resting rate gets?

Fire departments are going to vary in their rules but as long as it's a pacer rather than icd, it shouldn't be a problem as long as you can pass the physical. If you search the old posts, we've had other members here who are in EMS. Hopefully one will jump in and tell you more.

We can't get a CDL with an ICD, that's about the only universal restriction. Don't give in without a fight! Back up plan, perhaps there is a supervisory, teaching, call center or other less physical job you could transfer to? Good luck.

Fire Dept.

by Drake3287 - 2016-05-06 06:05:26

Actually it's only a commercial drivers license you can't get in California. I just recently retired from the fire service, at least my cardiac problem didn't come up until after I retired.

As of your question about passing a physical, it'll be up to what the employers doctor says about your condition and if he passes you. I assume every department puts future employees through a pre-employment physical.

With HEPA laws, there is a very limited amount of information that a doctor can release to an employer. He basically passes you or recommends not hiring based on his findings.

It would be worth talking to a doctor about this. I've seen many people not hired for certain medical reasons then all of a sudden some other department hires them. Every place tends to have different requirements or level of comfort when hiring people with a known medical issue.



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