Paramedic - A Strong Career in a Weak Economy
Wednesday, October 19th, 2011In today’s economy, a paramedic is one of the few fields where jobs are not scarce, but actually have a positive outlook. Even with a minimum education background, just about anyone can become an EMT paramedic with the right training. With this instruction, you will find yourself on the front lines of the medical emergency world. You will often be a first responder in a long line of health scares, from a heart attack to an automobile injury accident. Joining the emergency medical field is detailed, but ultimately rewarding process.
EMT training is available in all 50 states. The only requirement to entering training is a high school degree. There are three levels of EMT training available: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate and paramedic. An EMT- Basic is the first level of response of the emergency medical system with the basic skills to help at a trauma scene. The next level, EMT-Intermediate has a higher level of training. Be sure to note your state requirements for they will vary from to state to state. The paramedic level allows you to perform pre-hospital care on patients. This level, like the EMT-Intermediate level, entails a different set of requirements in every state.
According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2018, the emergency medical sector will have grown by 9%. Most of these jobs can be found in the major cities. Smaller towns and rural areas generally have volunteer EMT’s. An EMT paramedic will work closely with local police and fire personnel. To be successful as an EMT, you must be able to lift heavy objects, work indoors and outside, and be prepared to work more than 40 hours a week. Due to the 24 hour nature of the job, you may have to work irregular hours. Nonetheless, the hours are often guaranteed and the position secure.
Entering the emergency medical technician field is a rewarding and possibly lucrative experience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics finds the median wage around $12.88, with the experienced members of the field taking in wages around $23.00. As the job market becomes more competitive, it is important to note that the more EMT training you have, the better your chances of securing permanent employment as a Paramedic.