Paramedic Training in Florida
Becoming a paramedic means becoming a team player, a quick thinker, and a health care provider in high-stakes circumstances, for a living.
If you’re interested in a career in emergency medical services and think the life of a paramedic is right for you, don’t delay your next steps in pursuing your career. Read on to explore the training requirements for a paramedic in the state of Florida, all of which are met by the career preparedness programs at Health Careers Institute.
Degree Requirements for a Paramedic
When you decide you’re ready to become a paramedic with HCI’s leading, student-centric, hands-on program, there are a few things you’ll need to before you get started. All future paramedic degree program students must:
● Be at least 18 years old
● Have a high school diploma or GED
● Complete an HIV/AIDS training course
● Have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
● Pass a background check and physical fitness test
● Be CPR certified
● Have a basic life support (BLS) certification from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association
Earning Your Associates Degree in EMS from HCI
The paramedic degree is an associate of science degree in emergency medical services, and the paramedic curriculum involved is what sets paramedics (or EMT-Ps) apart from basic emergency medical technicians, or EMTs.
After the course of study is completed with a B average, students will complete 300 hours of practical training. Of those hours, 240 are ambulance/riding hours and 160 take place in the hospital.
In addition to paramedic-specific courses, students must complete general education coursework to receive their associate’s degree.
Upon successful completion of all previous requirements, HCI students are issued a pass/fail test to assess their skills and understanding of the training and material. With a passing grade, students are awarded a diploma.
The final step is the state exam, which students apply for and take after completing all previous steps. The NREMT contains both written and practical assessments. Learn more about the NREMT certification and examination here.
