Michigan is still dealing with a shortage of ambulance workers.

This is despite state grants designed to boost interest in EMT and paramedic careers. Bridge Michigan reports that the shortage in workers increases the risk of longer wait times for ambulance response, as well as backups at hospitals seeking to send patients to other facilities in the state.

The state is dealing with a statewide worker shortage problem, with the lowest unemployment rate in 23 years and a population growth rate that has ranked 49th in the nation since the 1990s. The problem is expected to get worse, with the state’s Health Council estimating Michigan will need at least 5,700 new paramedics and EMTs through 2030.