One misconception within society today is that are emergency crews of EMT’s and Paramedics making a lot of money. However even though the job description of an EMT and paramedic requires fast thinking in times of emergency as well as updated training they do not make as much as many would think. In fact there are a few things everyone should know about the EMT salary and Paramedic Salary before making their own conclusions. In addition before you move forward into recognizing and learning the different things about the EMT field.
What does an EMT do exactly?
An EMT has many job duties and descriptions that include but not limited to the following:
- Administer first aid treatment or life support
- Perform emergency diagnostic treatments
- Maintain vehicles and communication equipment including first aid supplies
- Comfort and reassure patients
- Operate equipment
Fastest Growing Field
- The field of an EMT and paramedic is considered to be one of the fastest growing around. In fact since the year 2009 it’s been on a steady increase. The job of an EMT and paramedic is an important one. They can work with hospitals bringing in emergency cases, within local government, fire departments, or even with Emergency Transportation services. A lot of positions were volunteer up until recently, this is because of the growth in the field. Many volunteer positions are being replaced with paid positions.
Moderate Pay Wages
- The average pay for EMT’s and Paramedics is around $30,360 per year with an average of $14.10 per hour. The majority of EMT’s and Paramedics work full time. It is important to remember that full time includes emergencies that may happen overnight and on weekends.
Work Environment
- The work environment of an EMT or paramedic varies. Around half of EMT’s are employed with ambulance services while some work within hospitals, or local government locations. They work both indoors and outdoors in different types of weather. The work can be physically strenuous and stressful at times as it involves life and death situations.
Job Outlook
- Employment of EMT’s and Paramedics is still expected to grow by around 33 percent for the next ten years. This is much faster than the average rate for all occupations. Emergencies such as car crashes, violence, and natural disasters are unfortunate, but always there and create a demand for EMT’s and paramedics. With an increase in more specialized medical establishments also this will require much more EMT’s and paramedics to transfer patients with much more specific conditions to many of these facilities for their treatment.
Overall the field of an EMT or Paramedic is fast growing and expected to keep growing well into the future. If helping those in need tugs on your heart strings and interests you, this might just be the perfect career path for you. When it comes to learning how to become an EMT these are just a few of the important facts one should know before getting started. As long as these things interests you, you will be well on your way to becoming an EMT in no time at all.