How to Become an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic in Florida
Paramedics and emergency medical technicians are integral pieces of the Florida healthcare and emergency response system. For team players who seek a rewarding career and the ability to help people every day, this career path may be ideal.
Emergency responders are referred to in a number of different ways, but the distinction matters. Here at ÒÁÈËÓ°Ôº, you can become a fully-qualified Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P), the highest level of EMT professional, and begin working in this important and fulfilling industry. A career as an EMT-Paramedic will have you serving your community and making a living at the same time.
Unlike lower levels of emergency responders (Professional Rescuer or Emergency Medical Technician-Basic), EMT-Ps are subject to more stringent and demanding standards for training and licensing.
What is required to become an EMT/Paramedic?
To become a paramedic in Florida, applicants must be 18 years old before seeking training. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license, CPR certification and BLS certification from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. Additionally, candidates must successfully complete an HIV/AIDS training course, background check and physical exam, and demonstrate a standard level of understanding of English, as determined by standardized testing or remedial coursework.
The Paramedic diploma program at ÒÁÈËÓ°Ôº is comprised of 45 credits taken over three semesters. In addition to classroom training, paramedic training includes 240 hours of practical time on an ambulance and 160 practical hours in a hospital.
Throughout three semesters of paramedic education, students will be introduced to the roles and responsibilities of EMT-Ps, legal concerns, ethics, communications, and more. Medical emergencies and trauma emergencies including cardiological and spinal injuries, among many others, are included in the ÒÁÈËÓ°Ôº curriculum. Candidates must maintain at least a B average each semester.
Getting to Work as an EMT-P
Once coursework, fieldwork, and paperwork are completed as necessary, examinations are taken on a pass/fail basis. A passing status awards a diploma. The next step is the NREMT Paramedic Exam, issued by the State of Florida Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. Paramedic licenses must be renewed every two years.