Becoming an EMT in Ohio can be an extremely rewarding career. But before making the decision, it’s important to know about the specific state requirements in Ohio. In the state of Ohio, there are 3 types of EMT certification. These include:
- Basic EMT
- Intermediate EMT
- Paramedic
Intermediate EMTs require more training than Basic EMTs, while Paramedics require more training than both Intermediate EMTs and Basic EMTs. Certifications in Ohio are managed through the DPS (Department of Public Safety).
At the first level of certification, Basic EMTs will be taught the basics. These include how to stabilize someone, how to transport them safely, the proper way to check vitals, and so forth. This level of training must be completed prior to being eligible to train as an Intermediate EMT. The Intermediate EMT training course is a forty hours. The course teaches the basics of pharmacology, how to administer drugs, trauma management, and more. At the final level, which is the Paramedic level, the foundations of the intermediate level are reinforced and built on. Students will learn more about pharmacology, the scientific aspects of healthcare, and as a whole, a more science based curriculum. Paramedic is the highest level of certification in Ohio.
The state of Ohio has a number of community colleges and other institutions that offer EMT training. There
are a number of courses that need to be completed prior to becoming a certified EMT, and the majority of schools offer all of these courses. Specifically, current state policy is that there are four classes that need to be taken and successfully completed prior to becoming a certified EMT. Ohio also has a fairly unique requirement that many other states do not require. In Ohio, prior to becoming certified, you must do what is called often called a “ride along”, in which you tag along with a certified EMT and learn from them first hand.
Once you have become a certified EMT, EMTs in Ohio must complete a training course after three years, and every three years thereafter. EMTs are given the option of picking four different training programs. These include:
I) Completing a review course (covers the entire curriculum from the initial training course)
II) Completing a trauma training course
III) Completing Ohio Emergency Services test
IV) Enrolling in additional EMT related courses
For those who decide to enroll in additional EMT related courses, there is a specific time requirement based on your level of certification. The time requirements are as follow:
- Basic EMTs – Time requirement = 40 hours
- Intermediate EMT – Time Requirement = 60 hours
- Paramedic – Time Requirement = 86 hours
For further information, feel free to head on over to the Ohio DPS website.