Improving Critical Access: A report on ongoing research for rural firefighters
Dr. Jason Moats
Firefighting is a hazardous profession, frequently leading to injuries and, alarmingly often, severe chronic illnesses stemming from occupational exposure to toxic substances. Cancer accounts for nearly 75% of line-of-duty firefighter deaths, and cardiovascular disease is responsible for over 45% of on-duty fatalities.
Despite these risks, occupational medical screenings can often detect these conditions before they become fatal. In 2024, the Texas A&M Health Science Center initiated a project, through seedling funding, to understand the needs and preferences of Texas volunteer firefighters regarding occupational medical screenings. The research findings highlight significant barriers to accessing these crucial screenings. This course will delve into these findings and outline strategies to address and mitigate these challenges.
About Dr. Jason Moats
Dr. Jason Moats is Director of the Texas A&M Health’s USA Center for Rural Public Health Preparedness and a Professor of the Practice in the School of Public Health’s Health Policy and Management program. Prior to coming to TAMU, Dr. Moats spent 21 years with the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). During this time, he served in multiple positions, including as the Associate Division Director of the Emergency Services Training Institute and as the inaugural director of the TEEX Testing & Innovation Center.
Dr. Moats is a veteran emergency responder. He has also served in the United States Navy as a hospital corpsman. He earned his graduate degrees from Texas A&M University and his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale. In 2016, Dr. Moats was recognized with the Texas A&M Regents Fellow Award, the highest award in the Texas A&M University System. Dr. Moats is the author of several published articles on a variety of topics including leadership, organizational development, and disaster management and response. Dr. Moats is also a member of the Oversight and Planning Board for the Firefighter Cancer Cohort Screening (FFCCS) program.
