Printer-friendly

Profession: Emergency Services (Pre-Hospital)

Emergency Medical Technician: Emergency Medical Technicians are the first to evaluate the nature and extent of a medical problem at emergency scenes. They determine the number of people injured, the types of injuries they have, pre-existing medical conditions of the patients, and the degree of trauma. They stabilize and transport the patient to a health care facility.

There are levels of EMTs depending on training level completed. They are: First Responders (the lowest level); EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, EMT-Paramedic and EMT-Critical Care Paramedic.

EMTs are required to work long hours on call, be able to lift patients, bend, kneel and stand for long periods, and work outdoors in all types of weather.

Salary Range: $22,460 - $37,000

Salary Notes: Depending upon the level of certification, salaries range from $22,460 to $37,000 and higher.

Where you can study:
Capital Community College, Hartford, CT
Eastern Maine Community College, Bangor, ME
Kennebec Valley Community College, Fairfield, ME
NHTI, Concord's Community College, Concord, NH

Where you might work:
Emergency Medical Services - Fire Departments - Hospitals - Industry - Private Ambulance Services -

Job Outlook: Employment is projected to grow faster than average through 2016 as paid emergency medical technician positions replace unpaid volunteers.

Education, Licensing and Certification: Formal training and certification are required but state requirements and reciprocity in recognizing certification from other states vary.

Professional Organizations:
National Association of EMTs 800-346-2368 www.naemt.org
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians 614-888-4484 www.nremt.org