If you’re considering a career as a paramedic or EMT, the first step you should take is to find out how to apply for EMS academy. Since the instruction and certification for EMS is different for each state, you need to find out the requirements for the state you’re living in or the one where you’re planning on working. Also, EMS academies have different criteria for admission into their programs.
If you’re ultimate goal is to become a paramedic, you must first undergo EMT-B (Basic) training and certification. Many EMS programs will require you to work as an EMT for a period of time (six months to a year) and maintain a good record before they’ll accept you into paramedic training. This is another step in applying for EMS academy.
In order to apply for EMS academy all states require that you be at least 18 years old. You also must have a valid high school diploma or the equivalent. Most places also require you to have a driver’s license in the state where you’re going to be trained.
There are also physical requirements that must be met to apply for EMS academy. Generally the physical criteria include the ability to lift, carry and balance at least 125 pounds a distance of ten feet. You should also be able to lift and carry 250 pounds the same distance with a partner. The reason for this requirement is that as an EMS professional, you’ll be expected to carry patients on a stretcher into and out of an ambulance. You also will also need to be able to carry people up and down stairs.
Another requirement for applying to EMS academy is the ability to exhibit manual dexterity, fine motor skills and balance, including the ability to bend, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces.
Most EMS academies will do a criminal background check on all applicants. If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you’ll be disqualified from applying. Some conduct a child abuse history check on applicants.
Another requirement for applying to EMS academy is to submit both personal and professional references. You should have a good work history and be able to obtain personal references from people who can attest to your character and abilities. If you’ve only just turned 18 and have never had a job, you might be able to skip the work history requirement by showing that you’ve been a good student.
People who’ve served in the military and have been honorably discharged generally have an advantage when applying for EMS academy, because they’ve already demonstrated good physical fitness, character and motivational skills.
Using this information about how to apply for EMS academy should help you get started on what will hopefully be a long, successful career in emergency medicine.
