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N.Y. becomes 50th state to recognize NREMT as pathway for EMS certification

With over 6,200 Nationally Registered EMS clinicians in New York, this decision is expected to boost those numbers as more pursue certification through the National Registry

Ambulance speeding in Manhattan, New York

Ambulance speeding in Manhattan, New York

Photo/Getty Images

By Sarah Roebuck
EMS1

NEW YORK — New York has officially become the 50th state to recognize the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) as a valid pathway for EMS certification, the organization announced.

This change, aligned with the state’s Policy 24-06, opens new doors for paramedics, advanced EMTs and EMTs, offering them a streamlined process for certification, NREMT states. For EMS professionals in New York, this recognition represents a long-awaited milestone, bringing the state in line with national standards and enhancing opportunities for emergency responders.

By adopting the National Registry’s certification and recertification exams, New York EMS students and clinicians will now benefit from a consistent, standardized process, NREMT states. This not only ensures quality care but also opens up career opportunities, as the certification is recognized in 49 other states, offering greater flexibility.

With over 6,200 Nationally Registered EMS clinicians already in New York, this decision is expected to increase those numbers as more professionals pursue certification through this streamlined process, NREMT says.

New York’s adoption of the National Registry certification process is an important update for the state’s EMS system. NREMT has provided a standardized certification process since 1970, helping ensure consistent levels of competency and care across the country. Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), NREMT offers certification for Emergency Medical Responders, EMTs, advanced EMTs and paramedics.

With 520,000 Nationally Registered clinicians across four EMS levels, this partnership ensures that New York’s EMS professionals are evaluated and certified based on national standards, NREMT says.

“Our partnership with New York reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that all EMS clinicians have the knowledge and skills required for competent practice and are prepared to deliver quality care to their communities,” said Bill Seifarth, chief executive officer of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. “This move reinforces the importance of national consistency in emergency medical services, and we are proud to welcome New York to join our efforts in maintaining excellence in EMS care.”

NREMT said it continues to collaborate with state EMS offices, educators and clinicians to maintain these standards and enhance the quality of emergency medical care across the country.

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