5 answers
Kristopher
Student
Carlsbad, New Mexico
1
Question
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How did you go about getting into EMT and can you progress further in the medical field from there?
I am planning on going for EMT, but I am worried about hitting a wall. I want to go for my Masters degree and aim to be a Health Specialties Teacher. Should I just stick to college and get my Masters or would EMT be a good foot in the door?
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5 answers
Austin Miller, B.A., Pharm.D., BCPS
Clinical Pharmacist
2
Answers
Updated
Austin’s Answer
Hi Kristopher,
I will say that being an EMT actually helped me meet my professional goals. There are different levels of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) so becoming an EMT doesn’t mean you will just hit a wall. You could go on to get your paramedic or it could lead you into another career field like nursing or Physician Assistant.
Several friends of mine originally became EMTs, then went to nursing school while being able to work shifts as EMTs, and became flight nurses or nurse paramedics after. Being able to work while getting a further degree can help cut down on debt after school so you can do more of what you want to do instead of working to pay down debt. There are accelerated EMT programs that you can complete that are 8 weeks long (pretty rigorous studying) but after 8 weeks you can be working and furthering your education as well.
Teaching is almost never out of the question for any of these career fields, it just depends on what type of teaching you may do (precepting students, direct teaching in classroom setting, clinical skills teaching/testing, etc.).
I will say that being an EMT actually helped me meet my professional goals. There are different levels of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) so becoming an EMT doesn’t mean you will just hit a wall. You could go on to get your paramedic or it could lead you into another career field like nursing or Physician Assistant.
Several friends of mine originally became EMTs, then went to nursing school while being able to work shifts as EMTs, and became flight nurses or nurse paramedics after. Being able to work while getting a further degree can help cut down on debt after school so you can do more of what you want to do instead of working to pay down debt. There are accelerated EMT programs that you can complete that are 8 weeks long (pretty rigorous studying) but after 8 weeks you can be working and furthering your education as well.
Teaching is almost never out of the question for any of these career fields, it just depends on what type of teaching you may do (precepting students, direct teaching in classroom setting, clinical skills teaching/testing, etc.).
Loved reading this, thanks!
Kristopher
Katie Alsheimer
Physician
15
Answers
Elmira Heights, NY
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Being an EMT is a great career choice. Like all careers, you will get what you put into it back. What I mean by that is if you continue to strive to learn, and to teach the you will achieve that. Being an EMT is very rewarding work but difficult. Many EMTs continue to hold classes to teach different life-saving procedures to other medical professionals, as well as to teach college courses and high school courses.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Kristopher
Deb Weber, MBA, MSRS, RCIS
Lab Assistant
12
Answers
Boise, Idaho
Updated
Deb’s Answer
Hi Kristopher,
How I went about getting my EMT was kind of unusual: I was 12. Not an EMT at 12, but a member of the fire department nonetheless.
My Mom loved Emergency! The tv series from the 60s or 70s.
So when our family moved to a small town (long story) she saw her chance to try the life on the local half full time paid paramedic/ff half volunteer fire department.
I got to be the patient many times at drill night. These people made being there SO fun and interesting. I honestly knew cpr, joules, spine boards, nebulizers, IVs, firefighter rehab and all the radio codes before I even learned to drive.
So what do you think happened when I turned 18?
The fire department sponsored me to become an EMT. And since I’d already been in class 6 years I was miles ahead.
Fast forward to today, and although I’m not a ff/paramedic, that past has helped me do so many things.
And the best part for me was really getting to see people in so many situations. You learn real fast both the ugly and the amazing.
Find a volunteer department if possible
Ask every EMT what the most challenging part of their role is.
Use that knowledge to go where you like.
How I went about getting my EMT was kind of unusual: I was 12. Not an EMT at 12, but a member of the fire department nonetheless.
My Mom loved Emergency! The tv series from the 60s or 70s.
So when our family moved to a small town (long story) she saw her chance to try the life on the local half full time paid paramedic/ff half volunteer fire department.
I got to be the patient many times at drill night. These people made being there SO fun and interesting. I honestly knew cpr, joules, spine boards, nebulizers, IVs, firefighter rehab and all the radio codes before I even learned to drive.
So what do you think happened when I turned 18?
The fire department sponsored me to become an EMT. And since I’d already been in class 6 years I was miles ahead.
Fast forward to today, and although I’m not a ff/paramedic, that past has helped me do so many things.
And the best part for me was really getting to see people in so many situations. You learn real fast both the ugly and the amazing.
Deb recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Kristopher
John Levesque
Clinical Quality Nurse
83
Answers
Waterville, Maine
Updated
John’s Answer
If you're fascinated by the field of medicine, then embarking on a journey to become an EMT is an excellent choice, and it certainly won't limit your future opportunities. My own life was transformed when I took a Wilderness EMT class while working as a rafting guide. After just one shift on an ambulance, I was completely captivated by the world of EMS. I dedicated a year to working as an EMT, followed by paramedic school, and eventually, I returned to nursing school. My passion for EMS was so strong that I juggled both roles for about a decade.
During my journey towards becoming an RN, I collaborated with numerous individuals who later entered medical school and are now esteemed MD's or DO's. Several others have become PA's or Nurse Practitioners. I've also had the privilege of working with a few who pursued Masters degrees and have now ascended to leadership positions at both state and national levels.
If you have a spark of interest, I would enthusiastically urge you to earn your EMT and immerse yourself in the world of EMS, getting to know the dedicated individuals who keep it running. From there, your opportunities for growth and advancement are limitless.
Wishing you the best of luck on your journey.
During my journey towards becoming an RN, I collaborated with numerous individuals who later entered medical school and are now esteemed MD's or DO's. Several others have become PA's or Nurse Practitioners. I've also had the privilege of working with a few who pursued Masters degrees and have now ascended to leadership positions at both state and national levels.
If you have a spark of interest, I would enthusiastically urge you to earn your EMT and immerse yourself in the world of EMS, getting to know the dedicated individuals who keep it running. From there, your opportunities for growth and advancement are limitless.
Wishing you the best of luck on your journey.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Kristopher,
Indeed, embarking on a journey as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) can serve as a solid stepping stone towards a rewarding career in the medical field, potentially leading you to become a Health Specialties Teacher.
An EMT is a crucial member of the healthcare team, providing immediate medical attention to patients in various circumstances. To become one, you need to complete a state-approved certification program. This program offers both theoretical knowledge and practical training, covering essential areas like anatomy, physiology, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), trauma care, and other emergency medical procedures.
Upon obtaining your EMT certification, you can dive into the field and start accumulating invaluable practical experience. EMTs are often employed by ambulance services, hospitals, or fire departments, where they respond to emergency calls, evaluate patients' conditions, deliver medical care, and transport patients to healthcare facilities.
As an EMT, you also have the opportunity to further your career by seeking more advanced education and training. For instance, you can elevate your skills and become a paramedic by completing a more advanced training program and passing a national certification exam. Paramedics are equipped to provide more comprehensive medical care than EMTs, including administering medications, initiating intravenous (IV) lines, and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs).
Once you've amassed experience as a paramedic, you might consider exploring a career in nursing or other allied health professions. Many nursing programs favor applicants with prior healthcare experience, and being an EMT or paramedic can provide you with such experience. Furthermore, some educational institutions offer bridge programs that enable paramedics to obtain their nursing degree in a shorter timeframe than traditional students.
To transition into a Health Specialties Teacher, you'll typically need to secure a master’s degree in a related field like public health or health education. While working as an EMT or paramedic might not directly equip you with the specific coursework or teaching experience needed for this role, it can showcase your dedication to the healthcare field and your eagerness to help others. Your practical experience as an EMT or paramedic can also enrich your teaching and provide your students with real-life examples.
In conclusion, embarking on a career as an EMT can be a fruitful initial step towards a career in the medical field. By amassing hands-on experience and furthering your education and training, you can aim for more advanced roles such as a paramedic or Health Specialties Teacher. However, the decision on which path to take is ultimately yours, based on your interests, career aspirations, and personal situation.
May God be with you!
James Constantine.
Indeed, embarking on a journey as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) can serve as a solid stepping stone towards a rewarding career in the medical field, potentially leading you to become a Health Specialties Teacher.
An EMT is a crucial member of the healthcare team, providing immediate medical attention to patients in various circumstances. To become one, you need to complete a state-approved certification program. This program offers both theoretical knowledge and practical training, covering essential areas like anatomy, physiology, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), trauma care, and other emergency medical procedures.
Upon obtaining your EMT certification, you can dive into the field and start accumulating invaluable practical experience. EMTs are often employed by ambulance services, hospitals, or fire departments, where they respond to emergency calls, evaluate patients' conditions, deliver medical care, and transport patients to healthcare facilities.
As an EMT, you also have the opportunity to further your career by seeking more advanced education and training. For instance, you can elevate your skills and become a paramedic by completing a more advanced training program and passing a national certification exam. Paramedics are equipped to provide more comprehensive medical care than EMTs, including administering medications, initiating intravenous (IV) lines, and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs).
Once you've amassed experience as a paramedic, you might consider exploring a career in nursing or other allied health professions. Many nursing programs favor applicants with prior healthcare experience, and being an EMT or paramedic can provide you with such experience. Furthermore, some educational institutions offer bridge programs that enable paramedics to obtain their nursing degree in a shorter timeframe than traditional students.
To transition into a Health Specialties Teacher, you'll typically need to secure a master’s degree in a related field like public health or health education. While working as an EMT or paramedic might not directly equip you with the specific coursework or teaching experience needed for this role, it can showcase your dedication to the healthcare field and your eagerness to help others. Your practical experience as an EMT or paramedic can also enrich your teaching and provide your students with real-life examples.
In conclusion, embarking on a career as an EMT can be a fruitful initial step towards a career in the medical field. By amassing hands-on experience and furthering your education and training, you can aim for more advanced roles such as a paramedic or Health Specialties Teacher. However, the decision on which path to take is ultimately yours, based on your interests, career aspirations, and personal situation.
May God be with you!
James Constantine.