Medical first responders are required to complete emergency medical technician or paramedic training. These programs typically last from three to twelve weeks in length. Medical first responders must also have a state license.
Essential Information
Medical first responder is a term used for EMTs and paramedics. EMTs and paramedics must be high school graduates and complete special training programs, which are offered at several levels. EMT-Basic programs may take just a few months, while 2-year associate's degrees are the standard for paramedics. All states require that EMTs and paramedics be licensed or certified, which calls for training and passing national examinations.
| Required Education | EMT or paramedic training |
| Other Requirements | State license |
| Projected Job Growth | 6% from 2019-2029* for Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics |
| Median Salary | $36,650 (2020)* for Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics |
Source: * U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Career Profile for Medical First Responders
Upon arriving on the scene of an accident or health crises, medical first responders or emergency medical technicians (EMTs) evaluate the injured person's situation. This includes determining whether the patient has preexisting conditions and then deciding on an appropriate treatment, which may include CPR, administration of oxygen or other measures. After assessing the situation, medical first responders may treat the injured person using special medical equipment such as:
- Oxygen delivery devices
- Stretchers and immobilization backboards
- Splints and wraps
- Suction devices
Occupational and Salary Information
The BLS predicted that job opportunities for paramedics and emergency medical technicians will grow 6% for the years 2019-2029 (www.bls.gov). This employment growth is faster than the national average projection for that same period. The median annual wage for EMTs and paramedics was $36,650 in May 2020. The lowest-paid workers earned $24,650 or less annually in 2020, and the highest-paid professionals made over $62,150 annually that same year.
Required Education and Certification
Formal training is required to become a medical first responder. In order to enter a training program, students must have a high school diploma and be at least 18 years old in most states. First responder or EMT-Basic training programs can typically be completed in 3-12 weeks. Students get ride-along training, as well as learn about common emergencies such as:
- Heart attacks
- Broken bones
- Respiratory issues
- Unexpected childbirth
In order to practice, all states require medical first responders to be licensed or certified. To become licensed, some states require candidates to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam, while others mandate prospective EMTs to successfully complete a state exam. Those who pass become licensed and must renew the certifications every 2-3 years.
The 6% job growth projected for medical first responders from 2019-2029 is faster than average when compared to all occupations. Applicants who complete the appropriate postsecondary training and gain experience in the field through an internship or practicum should be able to compete effectively for jobs as a medical first responder.
