When you think of a paramedic, your first thought usually is that of a professional that rides in an ambulance and works in emergency settings. However, paramedics are not just found in emergency services vehicles. Becoming a paramedic can open up the doors of employment, allowing you to work in various settings. As you continue to read, you will learn about other work environments in which an advanced emergency medical technician can be found.
EMT Paramedic: Perhaps the most common paramedic is the one that is seen in an ambulance. Emergency Medical Technician paramedics typically work for ambulance services (private or public) and respond to emergency calls for help.
Overseas/International Paramedic: Jobs for paramedics in foreign countries exist, especially in the Middle East. If you’re interested in traveling and seeing the world, then becoming a paramedic that works overseas would be a great career path to follow. Many of the benefits of working overseas as an advanced EMT center around money. Usually, the pay is almost double what you would earn at home. And, it’s also tax free. You might earn a generous amount of vacation time and be provided with a living stipend. In addition to the financial benefits, working with people of a different country is a great way to grow both professionally and personally, as you will more than likely learn a new language.
Tactical paramedics: A tactical paramedic is trained to be able to support a tactical law enforcement team. Tactical medics provide emergency medical care to officers and citizens who become injured or ill while in the field. As a tactical medic, you may have to provide care while under fire or in a hostile environment. Tactical paramedics work in extremely high-risk situations. You will not only be caring for officers but, you may have to also provide emergency care to criminals as well. Specialized tactical training is required and is offered at various facilities and learning institutions.
Hospital environment: Paramedics can also be found in hospitals. These advanced EMTs are able to provide immediate care to arriving patients. In addition to hospital environments, paramedics can also work in clinics or laboratories. Paramedics in these environments help nurses and work to take the load off of the physicians by providing basic medical care.
Flight paramedic: A flight paramedic is an emergency medical services professional that works in an aero-medical environment, typically in helicopters. As a flight medic, you can expect to carry out MedEvac transport missions. You will also typically work with a Flight Registered Nurse (RN).
Firefighter paramedic: A firefighter paramedic has been trained to not only respond to medical emergencies but, to also be capable of responding to fires. You must first become certified as a paramedic before you can apply to become certified as a firefighter medic. Your training will be provided by a department fire academy. As a firefighter paramedic, you will perform the duties of a typical firefighter, to include using ladders and axes, carrying hoses, and entering burning buildings. Seeing as how firefighters are usually the first to respond to a fire or traffic accident, if you’re certified as a firefighter paramedic, the chances of the patient’s survival are increased greatly.
Different levels of certification required for the different areas in which a paramedic can work so, be sure to check with your respective state regarding education and training specifications
