Become an EMT in Pennsylvania with EMT Training
As we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare systems across the country continue to struggle to meet the demands of local populations. Our healthcare systems have become completely overwhelmed. As a result, people have been leaving the workforce at an alarming rate, with an estimated 20-30% of paramedics and EMTs leaving every year. This kind of turnover puts an incredible amount of strain on the entire system, which is only compounded by the ongoing pandemic.
This is no different here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as emergency medical services (EMS) and fire service organizations are currently facing difficulties related to recruitment, training, and retention of first responders. Now, more than ever, we need your help to ensure that our healthcare systems are strong enough to meet the needs of our communities and keep them safe.
Local leaders have expressed their concern and have extended a plea to the larger Pennsylvania community. NPRC is now joining the fight to improve local emergency medical services in the form of EMR and EMT training programs.
EMT Training Courses Near Me
There are now flexible and accessible training programs available across the majority of Pennsylvania. NPRC has taken the necessary steps to become a nationally accredited EMS Educational Training Institute and an accredited Local Level Educational Training Agency to address the staffing issues faced by emergency services organizations such as fire departments, ambulance services, and other pre-hospital care providers.
NPRC currently offers programs for Emergency Medical Responders (EMR) and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT). These courses are offered throughout the region and offer flexibility in the form of hybrid-style learning.
Toward the end of 2021, NPRC also began the development of course offerings specific to the fire service, forming a fire service advisory committee to guide us. After discussions with the committee, we decided to start reviewing opportunities for entry level and professional development course offerings, with the goal of offering these courses in late 2022.
How to Become an EMT in PA: FAQs
What’s the difference between EMS, EMT, and EMR?
These are all very similar terms that can become confusing.
EMS stands for Emergency Medical Services, and is the umbrella term used for the category of emergency medicine that includes EMTs and EMRs, among others.
EMT stands for Emergency Medical Technician, which is a specific position that requires certification and training. EMTs generally work in ambulances and provide emergency medical services. Individuals certified as an EMT may also be eligible to serve as an emergency room technician. You can read more about how the Pennsylvania Department of Health defines the role of an EMT here.
EMR stands for Emergency Medical Responder, which is a specific position that does not require the same level of training as their EMT counterparts. While EMTs have specialized training and are able to administer emergency medication, EMRs are generally only trained to assist EMTs on Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances or serve on Quick Response Services (QRS).
How can I become an EMT?
In order to become an EMT, you will have to complete our 23 week course and then pass the industry-recognized National Registry exam. There are no prerequisites to registering in an EMT training course. There are no courses or degrees required to sign up.
You can register for our available training courses or sign up for our waitlist to be the first to know about available training opportunities by clicking here.
How can I become an EMR?
The process to become an EMR is very similar to that of an EMT. The only difference is that our EMR course is 8 weeks long. You will still have to pass the course and pass the industry-recognized exam. There are no required prerequisite courses or degrees.
You can register for our available training courses or sign up for our waitlist to be the first to know about available training opportunities by clicking here.
How old do I have to be to become an EMT?
In Pennsylvania, you must be at least 16 years old to become an EMT.
Can I get my EMT certification online?
NPRC offers both in-person and hybrid classes that are not online, but also do not require your attendance at a traditional college campus. Classes may be offered through video conferencing technology in classrooms right in your community that enables face-to-face learning while also providing flexibility and accessibility. NPRC has several Department of Health approved locations in the region to provide in-person training for EMS courses.
Sign Up Today to Become a First Responder
As the healthcare crisis continues across the country, it’s more important than ever to join the fight to bolster our local healthcare systems and help keep our communities safe. With the continued turnover of first responders and the added strain of COVID-19, it’s crucial to continue to improve our emergency services as much as possible. NPRC has taken the steps to develop a range of courses to get you certified and help you become a first responder.
For more information on our EMS, EMT, and EMR certification programs and how to enroll, visit our Emergency Medical Services Courses page.