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There are various levels to emergency care in the state of Michigan. The beginning level comprises training in basic first aid and CPR. The next is Medical First Responder, which several fire and police officials complete. An EMT has the emergency skills to assess a patient’s condition and manage respiratory, cardiac and trauma emergencies. An EMT-Specialist is trained in more advanced procedures such as administration of intravenous fluids, application of advanced airway techniques and equipment to assist patients experiencing respiratory emergencies. Paramedics provide the most extensive prehospital care, including administering drugs orally and intravenously, interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs), performing endotracheal intubations, and using monitors, manual defibrillators and other complex equipment. Shaun Pochik, education manager with Huron Valley Ambulance, is
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working in joint partnership with JCC in re-developing the EMS program. A paramedic himself, he says there is a demand for qualified EMTs and paramedics today. “Growth is projected through the year 2014,” Pochik said. Most opportunities for EMTs and paramedics are expected in hospitals and private ambulance services. Competition will be greater for jobs in local government, including both fire and police. Opportunities will be best for those who have advanced certifications, such as EMT-Paramedic, as clients and patients demand higher levels of care before arriving at the hospital. For those considering a career in emergency medical services, some important characteristics include the ability to work and use sound judgment under stress, leadership qualities, the ability to make decisions and be quick thinking, Pochik said. Huron Valley Ambulance is a nationally accredited, nonprofit
community service providing health transportation and call center services in an eight-county region in southeast and south central Michigan. Headquartered in Ann Arbor, HVA operates Jackson Community Ambulance, Monroe Community Ambulance, Lenawee Community Ambulance, and Albion Community Ambulance. They also dispatch for Alliance Mobile Health. HVA is the only private EMS Education facility whose paramedic program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Earnings of EMTs and paramedics depend on the employment setting and geographic location as well as the individual’s training and experience. According to a survey conducted by the Journal of Emergency Medical Services, average annual salaries were $35,259 for an EMT-Paramedic, $28,527 for an EMT-Intermediate, and $28,064 for an EMT-Basic.
Looking for more information? careerchoices@jccmi.edu
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