If you’re planning to continue your education as an EMT or paramedic, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at EMS continuing education, the methods involved, the outcomes of the courses, and how to find a mentor to guide you. Once you’ve completed the courses, you’ll be better equipped to manage your career, and help others in need.
EMS Continuing Education
A comprehensive resource for EMS continuing education, the Guide to EMS Continuation of Education is a valuable tool to maintain a certified status. The National Registry requires providers to complete a specific number of hours in core educational topics. However, it is not always easy to find an accredited program that meets these requirements. To find the best course for your needs, review the guide’s topics.
Methods
Methods for EMS Continuing Education vary widely among the professions, but all aim to ensure that practitioners maintain their current knowledge and skills. Continuing education for EMS professionals should focus on the latest technologies and methods, and credentialing agencies should expand the range of learning opportunities to meet the requirements of these professions. Here are three methods used in EMS education:
Outcomes
EMS providers must continually develop their skills and expand their knowledge to keep up with evolving healthcare conditions. Continuing education can help decrease liability, both in the case of malpractice and wrongful death. Not staying current on new technologies and medical developments can result in costly mistakes that can place the responsibility on both an individual and their employer. Continuing education courses can also help increase a provider’s career by introducing new concepts and specialties.
Mentors
The role of mentors in EMS Continuing Education is to provide guidance and support in the professional development of future emergency medical service practitioners. Mentors are experienced master teachers who share their knowledge and insight about various aspects of the profession. They understand that learning is a social process and facilitate instruction in a way consistent with this model. They should be well-trained and knowledgeable about their field and should be acknowledged as such.
Recertification
Recertification in EMS Continuing Ed is essential to maintain your credentials. The National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) requires EMTs to complete 40 hours of continuing education. This education must be organized into three distinct components: leadership, management, and clinical practice. Duplicate courses cannot be applied toward recertification requirements. Additionally, some activities, such as preceptor hours, clinical rotations, and volunteer time, do not count towards EMS continuing education requirements.
Conclusion
It is an important step in maintaining public safety and quality patient care, and requires continuing education in a number of topics. Recertification courses ensure providers maintain the highest level of competency and provide credible credentials across the country. You can find an EMS course online and begin preparing for re-certification today.