Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Top Career Links for EMTs and Paramedics

Career Center - by Carie Bishop

Emergency medical technicians and paramedics are expected to enjoy solid job opportunities through the year 2016, according to the Department of Labor. The transition from a volunteer labor force to a highly trained, dedicated group of professionals in the role will spark a 19 percent increase in jobs. The majority of positions will open with private ambulance companies.

However, the Labor Department reports, the best opportunities will go to candidates with “advanced education and certifications.”  Upon completion of your college training, you may want to look into joining professional organizations that promote advanced training, offer testing and certifications, and lobby for increased pay for qualified EMTs and paramedics.

Here are three key websites for working EMTs and paramedics:

National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
Each state in the nation has a State Office of Emergency Medical Services or EMS agency that handles licensing. The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) offers examinations that are required by 46 states, and it provides information on licensing requirements and continuing education. You can sign up to take computer-based exams in Airways and Breathing, Cardiology, Medical, Trauma, OB/Gyn/Pediactrics, and Operations.

The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) serves more than 25,000 members who work in the EMS professions, including members of private companies, hospital ambulance services, fire departments, and the U.S. military. Members can use the site for networking, gathering information on education, or researching government advocacy.

The International Association of Fire Fighters
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is the largest organized labor organization representing more than 292,000 paramedics and firefighters across the country. Its membership links direct visitors to information on pending legislation, programs, and services (including a library, training information, technical assistance, and articles on health and safety).

Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics