EMS Myths

[NYCEMS9115]

http://www.emsworld.com/print/EMS-World/Meet-the-EMS-Myth-Buster/1$16574

I've been proposing for better education for the EMT-B/I/P's in NYS. I've asked for more hours in the EMT-B and more rotations (one is not enough). I've asked that they merge the EMT-I85 to the EMT-I99. I've asked that the Paramedic will only be available as an Associate Degree; no certificate courses.?

[HellsBells]

Good interview! I love Bledsoe.

Its seems that Canada has a bit different culture than the USA. There is certainly not an overabundance of helicopter transport here. We have very limited use of helo transport actually, although I suspect our large rural area and cold weather may play a part.

Since the provincial government has taken over Alberta's EMS, evidence based medicine has been made a priority. That has been reflected in standardized protocols province wide. It should be interesting to see if that extends to actual EMS focused research in the future.

Im curious NYCEMS9115, how long is the tour that EMT-B's go on practicum for in NYC?

[mobey]

Everybody in EMS wants respect, but they don't want to put in the time to get the necessary education to catch up with other professions.In this country, a person can become a paramedic very quickly. In other countries, it's a more arduous process

I cut this from Dr. Bledsoe's myth.

I am actually wondering if this is a valid statement?

I know the education in the U.S. is shorter than some other countries, but is that a direct reflection of the practitioners not "wanting" the extra education? or is it the schools not offering it?

It takes 4 years to get a EMS Degree here in Canada, if I come to the U.S., do I have the option of getting the same duration of schooling?

If I have no access to the increased education, is it fair to generalize in this manner stating that I do not want the education?

PS; Of course I support Bledsoe, and love his dedication to our profession. Just don't want bad publicity we do not deserve.

[NYCEMS9115]

Good interview! I love Bledsoe.

Its seems that Canada has a bit different culture than the USA. There is certainly not an overabundance of helicopter transport here. We have very limited use of helo transport actually, although I suspect our large rural area and cold weather may play a part.

Since the provincial government has taken over Alberta's EMS, evidence based medicine has been made a priority. That has been reflected in standardized protocols province wide. It should be interesting to see if that extends to actual EMS focused research in the future.

Im curious NYCEMS9115, how long is the tour that EMT-B's go on practicum for in NYC?

In NYS, the EMT Course is 110hr long. Its worth 3 credits in a University/College.

My argument is that it needs to be more in depth. I believe that there needs to be more hours of practice and lectures. EMT need to do more than 1 rotation; 5 Ambulance and 3 ER clinicals. EVOC/Emergency Vehicle Operations Certification needs to be added. Assisting ALS skills like setting the IV, Advance Airway, and ECG application. Mandatory CMEs in order to recertify.

Currently, you don't need a HS Diploma and you can have a criminal record. There is an optional rotation; ER or Ambulance. Not all skills are tested. Majority of EMTs are Volunteers.

I cut this from Dr. Bledsoe's myth.

I am actually wondering if this is a valid statement?

I know the education in the U.S. is shorter than some other countries, but is that a direct reflection of the practitioners not "wanting" the extra education? or is it the schools not offering it?

It takes 4 years to get a EMS Degree here in Canada, if I come to the U.S., do I have the option of getting the same duration of schooling?

If I have no access to the increased education, is it fair to generalize in this manner stating that I do not want the education?

PS; Of course I support Bledsoe, and love his dedication to our profession. Just don't want bad publicity we do not deserve.

There are Associates Degrees in Paramedics offere in the US. Its not mandatory to have a degree to be a Paramedic. There are many Private Certificate Programs. As for Bachelor Degree in Paramedics; its not common. I could find only 3 Universities which offer the BS in EMT-P in the US. I've proposed for this kind of change; degree only with BS and MS in Paramedics but many of my peers are against my stance on this.

I'm glad to see someone as respected as Dr. Bledsoe feels the same or at least has similar feelings...