New EMT-B from Rockford, IL

[GaryThePilot]

Hi all. I just received my EMT-B national/ state certs. I interviewed with one company so far and was SHOCKED at the starting pay, no medical benefits (Nice knowing if you get sick you're on your own) (Full time EMT-B's do not get medical benefits period (And this is a good sized hospital in the area)). The job is PRN and PRN is new to me and doesn't seem like a good policy to attract loyal employees. I dont get it. I wish EMT's were better taken care of than this... for what they do. I am concerned on how in the world I will ever get valuable job experience I need and at the same time pay my bills, mortgage, and take care of my own health...lol. Long term I'd like to work as a flight nurse/ medic. I spent clinical time doing this and as a pilot, it's a good fit for me. Other personality traits apply also. I like emergency medicine altogether just like we all do. The hospital is good size and might offer advancement opportunities in the future. Would you guys say it's a good opportunity for a first time EMS job? I will have to stick with my current job and keep doing what I don't like for a living while doing this part time (In hopes of getting full time some day). I guess my real question is... is it any good to work 12 hours a week in EMS and actually gain valuable experience? I am 35 and cant get a job in fire service because im too old they say... otherwise I'd go work for out Paid on call fire Dept. with fire service. Thanks in advance!

[NYCEMS9115]

Every Service is different... Private Services vary; some provide benefits, some do not... My Service provides competitive wages, paid time off, medical & dental benefits, and life insurance for the EMTs and Paramedics.... Administrative and Office staff get little bit more perks... Not all Privates are created equal and not all Civil Services are, either... Good luck on your career...

[DwayneEMTP]

Hey man, Welcome to the City!

The good news is that you came to the right place for a great resource. The bad news is that as an EMT Basic there is almost no chance that you will find a job that allows you to live like a normal person..

There are some places that pay a little more, or a little less, but none of them pay very well, especially if you are talking about a one income family.

My wife and I have lived off of my single medic income for quite a while, thanks to some of my friends that make sure I stay employed in remote gigs, but we live very simply. It's not for everyone...in fact I know of a really good medic that works for Flight for Life that makes significantly less than I do...

I truly hate to be a downer, but I believe that within a relatively narrow window you will find these things accurate. And besides, it sounds like you want to be in medicine...avoid the fire depts.

Good luck brother...

Dwayne