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Half of Ind. medics fail state’s advanced EMT test

Advanced EMTs are in short supply after state standards changed four times during a 100 hour ‘bridge’ course that has since been replaced with a full course

By Pam Tharp
Pal-Item

UNION COUNTY, Ind. — Indiana might face a shortage of advanced emergency medical technicians, after fewer than half of the workers who took the new, tougher test were able to pass it.

Union County has not had certified advanced EMTs on its Rural/Metro ambulance runs since June 30, when the new standard became effective, St. Clair Ambulance owner Nathan St. Clair said. Statewide, only about 31 percent of those who took the test passed it, St. Clair said.

Nick Freeman of Dublin Fire/EMS said Indiana now has a very short supply of advanced EMTs. Only one of Dublin’s eight advanced EMTs passed the test, said Freeman.

Read full story: Advanced EMTs in short supply in Indiana