Becoming a Paramedic in Florida and What It Means for Your Future
Becoming a Paramedic in Florida can mean many things for your future. Paramedics are advanced-level emergency medical services providers. You are able to help patients on-site in an ambulance or at the emergency room.
How to become a Paramedic
Paramedics must be trained for their role. Like anyone who is in the medical profession, Paramedics have to receive an education and have hands-on experience. The final step toward becoming a Paramedic is passing the Florida State Paramedic Exam.
A 12-month program can prepare you to become a Paramedic in Florida. HCI’s program includes 422 theory hours, 150 lab hours, and 540 hours at an externship. Not only do you learn the medical knowledge you will need on the job as a Paramedic, but you also learn the technical skills and get hands-on experience.
Paramedics respond to 9-1-1 calls and help patients during emergencies. They also connect with nurses and doctors at the emergency room and update the status of the patient upon intake. The life-supporting responsibilities of a Paramedic are important for patients in life-or-death emergencies.
As a First Responder, Paramedics are the first ones on the scene of an accident or natural disaster. Many shifts for Paramedics will be fast-paced and long. Some shifts may be quieter, but Paramedics must always be prepared to handle emergencies as they come.
What it means for your future
Becoming a Paramedic can mean different things for your future. If you are considering a career as a Paramedic, ask yourself what you are looking for in your future and what you are prepared to handle.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paramedics are in high demand. The job outlook for Paramedics is 15%, which is much faster than the average rate. Paramedics also earn a median salary of $33,380 per year, or $16.05 an hour.
A career as a Paramedic requires the ability to act quickly while relying on your knowledge and skills. You have to be able to make medical decisions that will save patients’ lives. This is a career that needs people skills as much as it needs medical knowledge and technical skills.
Enroll in a Paramedic training program to become a Paramedic in Florida. Your career journey begins with the first steps toward becoming certified as a Paramedic. Contact us to learn more about our Paramedic program.
