Emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic
What do Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics do?
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics assess the urgent medical needs of a patient and stabilize their condition until doctors can administer more specific and extensive treatment. When transporting a patient in an ambulance, one EMT or paramedic may drive the ambulance while another monitors the patient’s vital signs and gives additional care. They are able to use life-saving medications and equipment. Â
Average Wage
Experienced Wage
Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedics:
Assess a patient’s condition and determine a course of treatment
Document medical care given to patients
Report observations and treatment to physicians and nurses
Respond to 911 calls for emergency medical care
Transport patients safely in an ambulance
Training & Educational Opportunities
EMTs and paramedics must obtain an Illinois EMT license. To become licensed, you need to take either the State of Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) State Licensing exam or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician Certification exam. A state test is also required, as is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification.
Training Providers
- College of DuPage
- Elgin Community College
- Harper College
- Joliet Junior College
- Triton College
- Waubonsee Community College
A workNet DuPage WIOA grant can pay for training.
Types of Employers
- Air and ground ambulance services
- Government agencies
- Hospitals
- Medical services companies
Opportunities
After earning your certificate or degree as an EMT or paramedic, you will have many opportunities for advancement. Some opportunities include:
- Licensed Practical Nurse
- Paramedic Operations Coordinator
- Physician Assistant
- Registered Nurse
