Paramedic Training in Texas
In Texas, paramedics are the top level of emergency medical technicians. They are charged with the responsibility of stabilizing patients at the point of injury or other medical emergency and also while transporting them to the hospital. Paramedics work in conjunction with other emergency response personnel like police and firefighters.
Identification
Becoming a paramedic in Texas requires that you be at least 18 years old, have completed high school or have a GED certificate, successfully completed an EMS training course approved by the state, as well as pass the National Registry Exam. In order to be licensed as a paramedic, you must also prove that you have a two-year EMT degree or a four-year degree in any field.
Types
There are four levels of certification in Texas. Becoming a licensed paramedic is the highest, then EMT-intermediate, EMT-basic and ECA, or emergency care attendant. Training for each level of emergency response personnel is offered online and at community colleges across the state. Training programs usually last between 750 and 2,000 hours for EMTs and paramedics. You may also qualify for certification based on previous job training or education, depending on the level of licensing you are interested in.
Function
Paramedics are typically employed by hospitals or fire houses. Training for paramedics in Texas begins with the lower-level EMT positions. After successfully completing a two-year course in classes like emergency medical services, pre-hospital pharmacology, disaster response, basic EKG and CPR for health care providers, among others, you can then enroll in a specialized paramedic training course. Paramedics work in the field and are supervised by doctors working in the hospital.
Considerations
If you have already completed EMS training or similar courses elsewhere, the state of Texas offers an equivalency process that may work for you. Contact any DSHS approved institution to determine if your previous coursework and experience may be equivalent. You are still required to pass the National Registry Exam and pay all necessary application and licensing fees.
Benefits
Becoming a paramedic provides an opportunity for growth, both professionally and financially. Base salaries for certified paramedics in Texas can start at $33,000 per year, according to salary.com. Your salary is based on your level of experience and education as well as the city or town where you work. Job growth for paramedics through 2016 is expected to be 19 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
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