Critical Care Paramedic Rachel Jackson joined Magpas Air Ambulance as one of the charity’s select team of full-time paramedics last summer. Providing expert medical care to the most seriously ill and injured patients across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and beyond, Rachel is at the forefront of critical care and is one of the successful few to achieve an aspirational career in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS).
Rachel, who grew up in Bury St Edmunds but now lives in Yaxley, owes being set on this trajectory of a lifesaving career to her mum. She explains, “I was inspired from a young age by my mum’s dedication to helping others. I grew up in an all-female household where compassion, resilience and the importance of looking out for others were values that were instilled in us from the beginning.
“Becoming a paramedic felt like a natural extension of that. I was drawn towards critical care and pre-hospital emergency medicine because it’s a specialty that thrives under pressure. I enjoy the challenge, pace and responsibility of working in high risk, high reward situations.”
As part of the advanced medical team with Cambridgeshire-based Magpas Air Ambulance, Rachel is specially trained in pre-hospital emergency medicine (PHEM), meaning she can provide patients with hospital-level treatments and procedures at the scene of their incident. By providing advanced medical interventions early, Rachel and her colleagues don’t just save lives; they reduce recovery times and keep families together across the East of England 24/7.
Last year, the GMC reported the UK had more female than male doctors for the first time ever. However, subspecialties such as emergency medicine, particularly HEMS, are still some of the most male-dominated areas of medicine, which is why it’s imperative to shine a light on clinicians such as Rachel and encourage more women in PHEM.
Rachel explains, “I’ve been very fortunate to have female critical care paramedics at Magpas Air Ambulance as mentors, whose resilience, professionalism and teamwork I admire greatly. What stands out to me most is how they maintain kindness and empathy despite the inherent pressures and emotional challenges of the job. That balance of strength and compassion is something I strive to reflect in my own practice, and I’m particularly inspired by all the women who empower others while also performing as part of a high performing team.”
Reflecting on the gender gap in HEMS, Rachel adds, “I have huge respect for all of my colleagues, despite their gender. At Magpas Air Ambulance, the qualities we all bring to the team are recognised across the board, and I’ve always felt supported and treated as an equal.
“There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork and mutual respect, which helps balance that divide and ensures people are valued for their skills, professionalism and contribution, rather than gender.”
She continues, “I didn’t get this job because I am a woman. I got the job, and I am a woman. I’m here because of my skills, training and commitment to the role.
“I would encourage anyone considering a career in HEMS to back themselves and go for it. It’s a demanding path, but also incredibly rewarding, and there is room for people with different strengths, perspectives and personalities.”
Rachel’s contributions to medicine and the community she serves have also received public recognition, following her recent shortlisting in Anglia Ruskin University's upcoming Vice Chancellor’s Outstanding Alumni Awards.
These awards celebrate Anglia Ruskin graduates who have made outstanding contributions to their communities and professional fields. Rachel is nominated for the Alumni Public Service Award this April, for all her work with the NHS and Magpas Air Ambulance.
“I felt incredibly proud, but also quite reflective,” Rachel says, on receiving the news. “It made me look back on the journey I’ve taken since choosing this career path—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
“I’m proud of the recognition for the incredible charity I work for, but more importantly, I’m proud to be able to represent that pursuing ambitious goals is both realistic and achievable. It’s a real honour and something I hope encourages others to believe that this path is possible for them too.”
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