Career Facts - Basic Emergency Medical Technician & Paramedic
Nature of Work
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) typically are dispatched to the scene of
an incident by a 911 operator and often with with-or are themselves-police
and/or fire officers. Once they arrive, they determine the nature and extent of
the patient's condition and try to ascertain whether the patient has preexisting
medical problems. Following strict rules and guidelines, they give appropriate
emergency care and, when necessary, transport the patient. Emergency treatments
for more complicated problems are carried out under the direction of physicians
by radio preceding or during transport.
The EMT is trained to care for patients on accident scenes
and on transport by ambulance to the hospital under medical directions. The EMT
has the emergency skills to assess a patient's condition and manage respiratory,
cardiac, trauma and many medical emergencies.
Most career EMTs work in metropolitan areas. There are many
more volunteer EMTs in smaller cities, towns, and rural areas. They volunteer
for fire departments, emergency medical services, or hospitals and may respond
to only a few calls for service per month, or may answer the majority of calls,
especially in smaller communities.
Employment Prospects
Employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is expected to
grow 20-35 percent through 2010. Population growth and urbanization will
increase the demand for full-time paid EMTs rather than for volunteers. In
addition, a large segment of the population-the aging baby boomers-will further
spur demand for EMT services, as they become more likely to have medical
emergencies.
To practice in the state of Michigan, individuals must pass
the written and practical licensing exam prescribed by the National Registry and
administered by the Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services. EMS
Division. The license must be renewed every three years.
Skills You Need
EMTs and paramedics are required to have physical and emotional strength and stamina, as well as skills in interpersonal relationships, effective communication and critical thinking. Students must have a high school diploma or GED and complete the educational requirements set forth by the Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services, EMS Division.
Expected Earnings
Earnings for EMTs depend on the employment setting and geographic location as well as the individual's training and experience. The average salary for an EMT is $14,000-$18,000, but tends to be more in fire services or hospitals.
