Paramedic Training in Illinois
Training to be a paramedic in Illinois is different than in many other states. Illinois is one of the few states that do not require you to pass the National Registry Exam to qualify for an EMT or paramedic license. Instead, Illinois has its own exam you must pass before being eligible to be licensed.
Types
There are three levels of certification for emergency medical services in Illinois, beginning with EMT-B, then EMT-I and progressing to Paramedic. Training for each level of emergency response is offered at a variety of colleges in the state, as well as online. EMTs complete at least 120 hours of classroom and practical training. Paramedics must complete an additional 950 hours of training, both in the classroom and in practical applications like supervised patient-care experience, as well as receiving supervised ambulance experience. Paramedics must also be trained in basic and advanced life-support techniques and protocols.
Identification
To become a paramedic in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high-school diploma or its equivalent and be currently registered with the state as an EMT-B or EMT-I. In addition, some training courses require you to have proof of your current immunizations, as well as a report from a recent physical examination.
Function
Paramedics are typically employed by firehouses, hospitals and private ambulance companies. They offer medical assistance to trauma and accident victims, as well as responding to persons with illnesses. Paramedics stabilize patients in the field and transport them to the hospital, if required. Paramedics are supervised and guided by physicians when handling trauma cases in the hospital.
Considerations
If you are already certified in another state as a paramedic or other EMS technician, you can find reciprocity applications on the Illinois Department of Public Health website. While you are there, you may also peruse the links to study guides for all three levels of emergency-services-technician exams.
Benefits
Base salaries for certified paramedics in Chicago, Illinois, can start at around $31,000 per year, and may exceed $52,000 annually, according to Salary.com. Your paramedic salary is based on your level of experience, education, years on the job, and the city or town where you work. Based on your employer, additional benefits may apply, such as health-care plans, vacations, 401-ks and other perks. Paramedics can expect to experience about 19 percent job growth between now and 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Tags: Paramedic Training, classroom practical, paramedic Illinois, Paramedic Training Illinois, Paramedics must