Initial cost for custom masks for paramedics yields unexpected benefits Some hospitals spent a chunk of COVID-19 disaster funds on custom-made masks for their paramedics. Even though they had the first chance to get the vaccine, the masks are for extra protection. Premier Health is betting it will make patients safer and first responders better. and last updated 2021-02-19 11:15:27-05 Some hospitals spent a chunk of COVID-19 disaster funds on custom-made masks for their paramedics. Even though they had the first chance to get the vaccine, the masks are for extra protection. Premier Health is betting it will make patients safer and first responders better.