Have you ever been in a medical, fire, or automotive emergency? Then chances are that paramedics came to your assistance before anyone else did. And as someone who appreciates the role they play in society, you probably want to join their line of work.
You want to save lives and make a difference. That’s all well and good. But do you know what it takes to be a paramedic? For instance, how do you qualify to be one? Where do you find work? And how long do you work? For the answers to these and more questions, here’s everything you need to know about becoming a paramedic.
What you do as a paramedic
Contrary to what you see on TV, you do more than just provide first aid or transport patients to a hospital. You’re also required to conduct complex medical interventions, such as inserting breathing tubes into the trachea or IV lines into the veins. And when necessary, you use advanced medical equipment or participate in rescue operations.
How you qualify to be a paramedic
Besides being at least 18-years-old, you must have a high school diploma and a clean bill of health. And just to make sure, your employer does a background check, medical screening, and drug testing. Next, you must pass a paramedic course, which includes 1,200 to 1,800 hours of coursework and lasts anywhere from 6 months to 24 months. Finally, you must pass a paramedic certification exam and acquire a license.
What skills you need
Thanks to the paramedic’s course, you acquire the following skills to help you do your job:
♦ Basic first aid
♦ Performing CPR
♦ Managing traumatic injuries
♦ Administering drugs
♦ Working with other first responders
♦ Conducting emergency deliveries
♦ Performing medical assessments
♦ Managing chronic illnesses
♦ Managing life-threatening conditions like cardiac arrests or strokes
Where you work
You work for three agencies, depending on your experience. The first is a private ambulance company, which gladly hires you even if you lack experience. However, it pays the least.
The other two are hospitals and government agencies, such as police and fire departments. Paramedics working under them have hectic schedules and encounter more dangerous rescue scenes. So these agencies will only hire you after you’ve gained months or years of experience. However, they pay you more.
How long you work
Like all first responders, you work 40 hours a week, but not on a 9am-5pm schedule. Instead, you’re on call during the day or night, depending on your shift. But during major emergencies, you’re on call at all hours, even on holidays and weekends. And for the extra hours, you earn overtime pay.
How much you earn
Your pay depends on many factors. First, there’s your employer, who – as we stated earlier – pays you depending on your level of experience and training. And then there’s your location with paramedics on the West Coast earning the most.
However, average emt salaries range from $32,500 – $40,040 a year. But this isn’t the final figure. Your insurance, overtime, and bonuses also affect how much you take home annually.
Your career prospects
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for paramedics will grow by, as nearly 25 percent by 2024. The bureau expects the trend to continue beyond that. So your prospects for career advancement are favorable.
To become a paramedic, you must attain the necessary qualifications, have the proper training, and apply for board certification. Only then can you apply to work for a private company, hospital, or government agency. But if you succeed, you’ll have joined a rewarding, though hectic, career.
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