Being a paramedic offers vital, life-saving treatment in an emergency, hence a career in this field may be rather fulfilling. After gaining years of expertise in the field, many paramedics, however, consider changing careers as the work is stressful.
Whether driven by new challenges, improved work-life balance, or professional development, former paramedics have a wide range of employment choices at hand. This article examines several career routes that might use paramedic knowledge and expertise.
Paramedic
Many EMTs find that their next professional move is toward paramedic work. A paramedic is a medical practitioner educated to administer emergency treatment, just as an EMT is. Together with other health professionals and medical doctors, they deliver life-saving treatment for patients until they get access to suitable medical treatment.
Although EMTs can assist in stabilizing and moving patients, their range of treatment and care is rather restricted. Paramedics, with higher training, can perform more advanced emergency medical treatment. These include treating damaged airways and beginning intravenous (IV) lines.
Most paramedics operate ambulances or the emergency department. They can also be useful in other environments, like cruise ships, special forces, air rescue, firefighting teams, and other private companies.
Registered Nurse
Should one desire to progress in their career, EMTs might also strive to enter the nursing industry. Given the nursing shortage, being a registered nurse can give EMTs a notable pay rise. The World Health Organization projects that 5.7 million nurses will be required by 2030.
EMTs have the fundamental information and abilities needed for patient care, hence their transfer to a nursing profession is really simple. Those who want to be nurses can register in a bridge program to pick up nursing knowledge, clinical experience, and the degree needed to be an RN.
You can also mix some non-emergency healthcare courses to enhance your skills and make yourself more marketable in nursing. Additionally, gaining experience in different healthcare settings can help EMTs transition smoothly into a nursing career.
Emergency Services Educator
A career as an emergency services educator may also benefit from having EMT training. EMT students and future EMS providers can benefit from the practical information that instructors have gained throughout the years of practice. As a teacher, they can directly contribute to the creation and execution of training initiatives in trade schools.
This is typically the easiest transfer, since the only additional educational requirement is one or more years of field experience. However, note that some employers favor educators who hold a bachelor’s degree.
Private Sector and Corporate Opportunities
Occupational health experts are essential in the business and personal sectors to maintain employee safety and wellness. These experts handle worker compensation disputes, create occupational health programs, and do workplace health evaluations. The medical expertise and experience of paramedics in emergencies qualify them as perfect candidates for these positions.
A profitable alternative is to pursue a career in risk management and insurance, focusing on health and safety. Insurance underwriters, claims adjusters and risk assessors are among the positions in this industry. Paramedics can assess risks and handle claims because they know medical processes, injury treatments, and healthcare systems.
Endnote
A paramedic’s knowledge and abilities are flexible and apply well in many other fields. Former paramedics have several chances for professional advancement, whether they move into positions in health education, public health, emergency management, hospital administration, or the commercial sector. The secret is to find personal interests and talents, seek required further education or certifications, and use the special experience of a paramedic career to shine in a new and exciting position.
