6.6 EMS Requirements and Qualifications
Karen Piette, MHS, CMA
The development of EMS systems and qualifications is primarily managed by each state’s Office of Emergency Medical Services. However, these offices rely on the federal government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) EMS Education Agenda for the Future. This document was developed collaboratively with stakeholders from all aspects of EMS. States use it as a framework while developing and revising the curriculum, qualifications, and scope of practice for each level of EMS provider within their jurisdiction. Although state-specific curriculums may vary slightly, they all adhere to some general accepted practices. EMS programs are typically administered through community colleges, local or regional EMS systems, or hospitals.
In general, the curriculum for an entry level EMS program (EMT) requires approximately 200 hours of training. This program covers non-invasive care for sick and injured individuals. EMTs have a limited range of life-saving medications that they can administer, typically using auto-dose delivery systems.
Advanced emergency medical technicians (AEMTs) undergo an additional 200-300 hours of training on top of the EMT training. This training allows AEMTs to administer certain essential medications, manage airways, and provide care for common medical and trauma emergencies.
Core paramedic certification takes an additional 1,080 to 2,000 hours of education, including classroom instruction, laboratory work, hospital clinical training, and a field internship. Paramedics can earn certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in EMS. They are trained to perform intensive, life-saving invasive procedures in the prehospital environment. These procedures may include advanced airway management, critical care pharmacology, intensive cardiology, and advanced trauma management. The scope of practice for paramedics is governed by the state office of EMS (OEMS), regional EMS agencies, and local medical directors.
The information below is taken directly from the Washington State Department of Health (2022), although it is generally applicable to most states.
Professional Requirements and Qualifications for EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics
To work as an EMT, AEMT, or paramedic, appropriate training is required. For all three roles, successful completion of a department-approved training course is required in most states. In Washington state, applicants who graduated from paramedic training after June 30, 1996, are required to have graduated from a paramedic training program accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).
For all three careers (EMT, AEMT, and paramedic), applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Have professional work experience
Applicants are also required to be associated with one of the following