The Ultimate Resource Guide for EMTs
Emergency medical technicians, also known as EMTs and paramedics, are often the first responders to an accident or natural disaster. Every year, countless ill and/or injured people owe their lives to the quick-thinking EMTs who respond to their distress calls. Are you an EMT in training? Or preparing to pursue certification as an EMT or paramedic? Whatever the case may be, this resource guide is full of handy tips for passing your certification exam; state requirements for certification; and even the best blogs for emergency medical providers. Enjoy!
EMT Career OverviewWould a Job as an EMT Suit Me?Employment Prospects for EMT Professionals
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How to Choose the Best EMT School for You
There are many factors to consider when choosing where to pursue your EMT training. But one thing is certain, you want to make the right choice. The first thing you need to decide on is the type of certification you'd like to pursue. Classifications vary state to state, so it's important to research carefully. This decision will affect not only the length and cost of your training program, but also will likely affect your future pay rate. Once you decide on the type of program you're looking for, you can narrow your search based on other important factors like cost, proximity, and reputation. Dive into the helpful resources listed below and you'll be well on your way to choosing a course of study and a school that fits your needs and will satisfy your career goals.
Read MoreTypes of EMT Positions
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) , a nonprofit organization founded in 1970, serves as the national EMS certification organization based on NHTSA education guidelines (National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians). The NREMT certifies emergency medical service providers at five levels: First Responder, EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate 1985 curriculum, EMT-Intermediate 1999 curriculum, and Paramedic (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Read MoreExplore a Day in the Life of an EMT
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) provide immediate and vital pre-hospital medical attention to the sick and injured. They work in every imaginable setting and respond to life-or-death emergencies as varied as automobile accidents, heart attacks, slips and falls, childbirth, and gunshot wounds (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). At times, heavy lifting is required and the stress-level can run high, but for those EMT professional who have mastered the art of “grace under fire,” the profession can be a challenging, exciting, and satisfying opportunity to help others in need of emergency assistance.
Read MoreEMT Training Overview
Currently, EMS is the only allied health care profession that does not require accreditation for its educational programs (Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions and NREMT). However, by the year 2013, the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) - the certifying body for EMTs – will require graduation from an accredited educational program as a prerequisite to Paramedic certification
(EMSResponder.com and International Association of Fire Chiefs).
EMT Licensure and Certification Requirements by State
All 50 States administer licensing requirements for EMTs and Paramedics (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). To date, 46 states require EMTs and paramedics meet NREMT certification requirements for EMS provider licensure and some states require EMTs and paramedics maintain certification with the NREMT as part of continued licensure requirements (National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians).
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