Mississippi EMT Programs

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How to Become an EMT-Paramedic in Mississippi - EMT-Paramedic programs in Mississippi

EMT- Paramedics are skilled medical professionals that respond to emergency situations, and can work in an ambulatory setting such as an ambulance, triage center or emergency room. This job is very rewarding because they often have the chance to save lives. There are steps that people can take to join this area of expertise. To become an EMT-paramedic in Mississippi a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Training for this profession is also required to become certified in the state. In this profession a great deal of skill is required, because the work environment can be extremely stressful.

There are four levels of EMT training one can take. The first category is training to become an EMT-Driver. This person would be responsible to driving the emergency response vehicle such as the ambulance. This type of EMT is not allowed to work on patients or offer medical assistance. The second level is an EMT-Basic. This person will be responsible for care under the supervisor, and can only provide a certain amount of medical assistance. The EMT-Intermediate will be allowed to work in situations providing emergency care also under a certain amount of supervision. The EMT-Paramedic status is the highest level one can be. This person can provide care in an ambulance.

There are several schools in Mississippi that offer professional training to become an EMT-Paramedic in the state. Most of these schools are community colleges. A few of these schools include East Central Community College in Decatur, East Mississippi Community College in Decatur and Hinds Community College in Jackson. In order to become an EMT-Paramedic, one must complete a training program and take and pass an exam to become certified with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. As a part of the application process with this organization, students will need to pass a criminal background check showing no felonies or misdemeanors on their record.

Once a student passes their exam, they will be registered with the state of Mississippi and can get a job with an emergency response organization. Re-certification is required for all emergency response personnel which require continuing education units to be completed. The outlook for this profession is good. There is expected to be more than a 30% rise in jobs for this profession over the next ten years. Those who have completed the necessary requirements have the ability to enjoy a prosperous workforce in the near future.

• Mississippi Department of Health