For those exploring careers in EMS, one question that pops up again and again is, “What exactly is the difference between an EMT and a paramedic?”
When many of us at Empress began our professional journeys, we wondered about that as well. So here’s the answer to this age-old inquiry.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) must complete a training program such as the one offered at our EMS Academy that runs for 12 weeks. These immersive classes are designed to empower participants with basic lifesaving skills. Upon completion, students sit for the New York State certification exam. Throughout the training, lots of time is spent doing hands-on learning activities, including ride-alongs with experienced EMTs in the field.
Paramedics learn everything EMTs do, but they also have more intensive training, including comprehensive instruction in areas such as cardiology, medical procedures, physiology, and medication. It typically takes 12 months or longer to finish a paramedic program, and an internship is a requirement for completion. As with EMTs, paramedics must also pursue official certification with the state in order to earn designation.
While both EMTs and paramedics respond to health-related concerns and emergency situations — and both can evaluate a patient and administer CPR, provide first-aid treatment, and transport a patient to a hospital — EMTs generally support patients deemed as being more stable, while paramedics are dispatched for more life-threatening situations. EMTs, however, are also called to serious scenes, frequently serving as backups for paramedics. EMTs can perform CPR, for example, on an accident victim — while paramedics might simultaneously treat a traumatic head injury or interpret an electrocardiogram.
EMTs and paramedics are both critically important to protecting the health and well-being of our communities. Compassionate, courageous, and competent members of our team at Empress are there for people at their times of greatest need. Those who benefit from the skills and kindness of our EMTs and paramedics often express how deeply grateful they are for these individuals.
