Is becoming an EMT right for me?

A career as an EMT is best suited for those who enjoy working with others and have excellent problem-solving and listening skills. EMTs must often be detectives of sorts, having to figure out what is wrong with a patient after sorting through information that may not be as complete as one might like.

Is there a high demand for EMTs?

Job Outlook Employment of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics is projected to grow 6 percent from 20, faster than the average for all occupations. Emergencies, such as car crashes, natural disasters, and acts of violence, will continue to require the skills of EMTs and paramedics.

Why is EMT pay so low?

There are other reasons EMS pay is so low. Certification is minimal — it only takes 120 to 150 hours of training to become an EMT (paramedics require significantly more). Ambulances in rural communities are often staffed by volunteers, which depresses wages for those who do pursue the role as a career.

Is it hard to get EMT job?

With many 911 services, they are looking for Paramedics, so it may be harder to find a job as an EMT-B or I. Jobs are often very competitive, especially with high-profile services. If you’re looking to make lots of money, you’re looking at the wrong profession. Most EMT’s don’t get paid well at all.

How hard is the EMT course?

A-EMT training (~250 hours classroom + ~100 hours clinical) is difficult for students with IQ levels EMT-Paramedic training ( ~800 hours classroom + ~800 hours clinical, split between hospital ER departments & ambulance rides).

How long does it take to get hired as an EMT?

How Long is EMT School?EMR2-4 weeks/55-65 hoursEMT3-11 weeks/120 hoursAEMTThe EMT program PLUS an additional 350 hoursParamedicTwo years/1,200 to 1,800 hours

Is being an EMT dangerous?

Ambulance workers—including paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)—work very dangerous jobs. They handle combative patients, have physically-demanding responsibilities, and are exposed to harmful substances every day. That is compared to two out of every 100 workers in all other jobs.

How many EMTs died in 2019?

The Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA) has reports on 119 firefighters and 20 EMTs and paramedics who died by suicide in 2019.

How old is the average EMT?

35.9

What’s the age limit to be a paramedic?

18 years old

Why do paramedics quit?

There are many reasons why providers leave, from safety concerns, to the physical and mental toll EMS can take, to outdated technology and policies, disconnected management, and low pay. If you’ve been in EMS long enough, then you’ve likely had a thought or two about quitting.

What kind of hours do paramedics work?

It really depends upon the service and the role in which the paramedic works and the call volume for each service. For instance it is not uncommon to have hour shifts in a Fire/EMS service. For 3rd party services, you could be looking at 8/12 hour shifts.