Personnel
What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?
An EMT has 180 hrs or about 3 months of specialized training and education and is able to provide basic life support care. This includes splinting, bandaging, basic airway support procedures, the use of automated cardiac defibrillators, and the use of two emergency drugs.
One year professional experience as an EMT plus several specific college level courses are generally required to gain acceptance to a paramedic program. A Paramedic has over 1000 hrs, or about one year of formal education plus a field externship program with a experienced paramedic who is a Field Training Officer. They are able to provide advanced life support, including IV’s, over 30 different medications.They have advanced airway skills carry 12 lead EKG monitors and interpret cardiographs.
All EMT's and Paramedics are certified and registered by the state.