THE STEPS OF NYS EMS
You are never too young or too old to want to help others. Our NYS EMS system offers education and certification to ride on ambulances and help administer care to members as young as 18 years of age. The youngest level of care begins with Certified First Responders; New York State requires a student of a CFR program be at least 16 years of age by the last day of the month of the scheduled NYS-BEMS exam. NYS Emergency Medical Technicians must also take a state authorized course and a student of an EMT program be at least 17 years of age by the last day of the month of the scheduled NYS-BEMS exam.
Each level of certification has its own list of responsibilities. CFRs can help by providing necessary life-saving interventions while waiting for higher skilled providers, and they can assist EMTs and Paramedics during transport. Being a CFR allows the “younger generation” to feel pride in their vital contributions during emergencies as well as teaching and preparing them to move ahead to EMT or Paramedic. The next step up is EMT.
EMTs act under medical oversight. In addition to transporting patients to hospitals, EMTs can perform CPR when necessary, and administer oxygen and glucose, and assist patients experiencing asthma attacks or allergic reactions. EMT-As (Advanced EMT) are also authorized to provide IV therapy, administer crucial medications, provide advanced airway interventions, and monitor cardiac rhythms with heart monitors. NYS does not often use the classification of EMT-A for emergency transports.
Paramedics are often the highest trained field responders. To begin training as a NYS Paramedic, you must hold a valid NYS Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. Paramedics need to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic exam. In the field and during transport, Paramedics assess their patient’s condition and needs, administer emergency treatments and medications, and can provide advanced life support using intubation and cardiac monitoring.
NYS ambulance drivers, also an integral part of EMS responders, need a NYS driver’s license, have a clean driving record, know CPR, and be able to assist in lifting and moving patients. Many EMS squads also require CEVO training. CEVO is a national course taught in fire departments, ambulance services, and public safety agencies. The CEVO training helps drivers navigate emergency transport safely and quickly.
While various volunteer agencies and professional services can make their own rules and regulations depending on their needs, all EMS professionals must refresh their certifications periodically and retain their physical abilities to perform their designated tasks. Very often the involvement of youth leads to a lifelong commitment to EMS and advanced training, and many paid and volunteer organizations do encourage youth squads and/or Explorer programs. Find your local NYS accredited EMS training program through the NYS Department of Health website.
All certification levels require regular recertification as well as maintaining other cognitive and physical skills to remain part of the Emergency Medical response system. NYS does not mandate retirement or set any maximum age so long as certifications and physical/mental skills are maintained.
NYS Emergency Medical Responders are vital to the health and well-being of every New Yorker. Thank you for your service.
I'm a former NYS EMT and still part of an EMS & FD family. I like to think I can write ;)
