Louisiana EMT Programs

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EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana - Requirements for Becoming an EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana

How to become an EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana can look different for various prospective candidates. Training for a basic to intermediate EMT position can be completed in six months to a year. However, a licensed paramedic in Louisiana will need to get a two year, associate's degree, acquire national certification, and be licensed by the state of Louisiana. The job outlook for EMT-Paramedic positions is excellent, well over double the average outlook for all occupations. The mean annual wage for an EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana is $36,670. The national mean wage for the profession is $34,030, making Louisiana an excellent place for paramedics to work.

Emergency response is the main business for an EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana. These medical professionals assess the condition of patients at the scene, and can administer CPR and medicines. They transport the sick or injured to a hospital or urgent care center. Operating and maintaining the equipment and vehicles involved is also a part of the job. In order to become a paramedic, the first step is to choose from the EMT-Paramedic programs in Louisiana. There are numerous schools which offer training programs, including Louisiana State University, South Louisiana Community College, Southern University Shreveport, Nunez Community College, L. E. Fletcher Community College, Bossier Parish Community College, and more.

EMT-Paramedic programs in Louisiana vary in length and cost. Accredited programs are approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Programs. After completing an accredited associate's degree program, it is essential to apply for national certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, because it is a requirement for licensing in Louisiana. To be certified by the NREMT, applicants need to prove completion of an accredited training program and pay a fee, as well as These items allow applicants to take the certifying exam at a Pearvue Testing Center. As soon as the exam is passed and certification is granted, licensing from the state of Louisiana can be pursued.

The NREMT exam is a computer based test with multiple choice questions. It utilizes Computer Adaptive Testing technology, which means that the questions will not be the same for every tester. There are practice exams and study techniques online to help students prepare. Applicants get licensed through the Louisiana Emergency Medical Services department (a division of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals), with submission of the application, application fee ($50), driver's license and NREMT certification card. Once licensed, an EMT-Paramedic in Louisiana can apply for jobs throughout the state.

• Louisiana Department Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health