There is sometimes confusion between the classifications of EMTs versus Paramedics, but it is relatively easy to define and categorize each one so that a person considering EMT training will be prepared to make the right curriculum choices. A person considering EMT training, and perhaps thereafter paramedic training, should first perform a personal assessment of his or her disposition and abilities.
Pursuing EMT certification will ultimately prove to be fruitless if an individual cannot feel comfortable in the high-stress, intense environment so frequently experienced by EMS professionals. An EMT is regularly expected able to make critical life and death decisions at the spur of the moment, and may have to manage high levels of intensity for long periods of time. If a work environment like this seems too intense, perhaps a person is not the right fit for such a career.
Conversely, if the notion of a high-energy career of this sort seems exciting, then a person should certainly continue to pursue a career as an emergency medical technician. Once a potential EMT candidate identifies this career as a good fit for his or her lifestyle and natural aptitudes, he or she might wonder about the differences or distinctions between and EMT and a paramedic.
All prospective emergency medical technicians start their EMT training in the same way, and depending on how many classroom and hands-on hours they complete, their classification will continue to change. Initially, an EMT will be classified as an EMT-Basic and gradually, with additional training and more practical knowledge in the field, he or she may finally work their way up to the highest level of EMT, formally title EMT-Paramedic.
Therefore, paramedic training can be seen as an advanced, increased version of the standard EMT certification, with a higher pay and more responsibilities to accompany the increased knowledge base. Now that the candidate has the knowledge to make solid education and career decisions, it is time to research EMT training requirements for their particular state.
Because every state has its own specific guidelines regarding classroom training hours and hands-on practice time that an EMT or paramedic training course is required to provide, it is crucial that the candidate enroll in a program that meets or exceeds the specifications set forth by the state in which they plan to be employed. There will be many different types of programs for the candidate to choose from, including some that are completed totally online.
Before being tempted by and pursuing an entirely online option, however, it is strongly advised that they review the requirements of their state, as it is very unusual for a valid EMT certification to be issued based solely on virtual training. The proper training combined with appropriate natural skills and abilities will allow a person to pursue and succeed at a career as an emergency medical technician. Whether they focus on preliminary EMT training or go on to obtain further paramedic training as well, an EMT will be assured a very fulfilling, absolutely stable career.
