Why Do Paramedics Get Paid So Little?

Many EMS workers, a category which includes both EMTs and paramedics, say their

low pay reflects a lack of appreciation for their work

, which can be just as dangerous as and at times even more dangerous than the work of police officers and firefighters….

Which is better EMT or paramedic?

A paramedic

is the highest level of EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification. Paramedics are required to complete training for basic and advanced EMTs and also complete additional studies.

Do paramedics get paid more than EMTs?

EMT vs. paramedic. … According to Payscale, an EMT at the lowest level of certification earns an average of $30,500 per year in the United States while paramedics earn an average salary of

$46,500

, for a difference of roughly $16,000 per year.

Can you live off a paramedic salary?

EMTs and Paramedics

can live off the salary they make

. However, the lifestyle they can live will depend on location, experience, employer, and overtime hours.

Do paramedics make a lot of money?

According to Payscale, an EMT at the lowest level of certification earns an average of $30,500 per year in the United States while paramedics earn an

average salary of $46,500

, for a difference of roughly $16,000 per year. …

How many years does it take to become a paramedic?

For example, in California you must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible to certify as an EMT. Paramedic (PM) students complete a program

between 1,200 to 1,800 hours and may last six to twelve months

.

Is paramedic a good career?

Becoming a paramedic can prove to be a

highly rewarding and door-opening career path

. Paramedics serve a vital role in healthcare because of their ability to show compassion, safely transport patients to a hospital, and provide first aid during medical emergencies.

Why does EMT pay so low?

There are other reasons EMS pay is so low.

Certification is minimal — it only takes 120 to 150 hours of training to become an EMT

(paramedics require significantly more). Ambulances in rural communities are often staffed by volunteers, which depresses wages for those who do pursue the role as a career.

Is becoming an EMT worth it?

Becoming an EMT or Paramedic is a

strong career choice

. EMS is a growing field and jobs are plentiful across the country. Furthermore, you help people every single day and there are plenty of opportunities to grow within the field. For example, some EMTs may choose to advance their skillsets to become a Paramedic.

What type of paramedic makes the most money?

Is it hard to become a paramedic?

It takes a lot to get through paramedic training because it is a tough job that requires physical stamina, calmness under pressure, medical knowledge, the ability to make quick decisions, and the compassion to be kind to patients even in tough situations. … To work in this field, you have

to work hard

.

How long is EMT school?

It typically takes

12 weeks

to finish the program, unless you choose the accelerated eight-week class option to earn your certificate faster. (In contrast, traditional EMT programs can take up to 16 weeks to complete.)

What are the ranks of paramedics?

The three levels are defined as

the Supervising EMS Officer, the Managing EMS Officer and the Executive EMS Officer

. We feel that the majority of EMS officers from across the United States can identify their position among these three categories.

Are ambulance drivers also paramedics?

Ambulance drivers do not have to be paramedics

, although some paramedics are also ambulance drivers. … The minimum medical skills an ambulance driver needs are CPR and basic life support (BLS) certifications. You can become an emergency medical technician (EMT) and also drive an ambulance.

How much does paramedic school cost?

But, typically, you can expect to pay anywhere

between $1,000 and $10,000

for a paramedic training course. Some programs can certainly exceed that amount, however. UCLA’s paramedic program for instance, costs about $11,300. That price includes additional expenses for certification fees, uniforms, textbooks and more.