Choosing a career as a paramedic could have many benefits. However, this career could also come with many challenges. If you’ve been thinking of becoming a paramedic, here is a brief summary of the pros and cons, and the journey you’ll need to take to get qualified.
The pros of becoming a paramedic
It’s a chance to make a difference
As a paramedic, you’ll be potentially saving lives every week. Your job involves directly helping those in need and you are likely to feel a great sense of reward and job satisfaction. There are arguably few jobs that are more important than being an emergency responder!
Every day is different
For those who find routine monotonous, a job as a paramedic can also be a chance to do something different every day. You’ll constantly be going to different places, talking to different people and dealing with different unique situations.
It’s a stable job
The demand for paramedics is constantly growing to keep up with the increasing population. It is a job that will always be needed and in demand. If you’re looking for a long and stable career, it could be a good option.
It has a great benefits package
Paramedics typically get an incredible range of benefits. This includes fully paid insurance cover (health, eye and dental), paid time off, sick leave and a generous retirement plan.
The cons of becoming a paramedic
It requires a lot of training
Extensive education and training is required to become a paramedic. You’ll need to complete rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical training, and a range of written and practical exams in order to be qualified.
You’ll work long, irregular hours
Emergency medical services operate 24/7, and you will be expected to work irregular schedules – which could include night shifts, evening or weekdays. These shifts could be as long as 12 hours at a time. This can be strenuous and impractical for some people.
It can be physically exhausting
You need to be in good health to be a paramedic as there could be heavy lifting required. The long shifts also increase the risk of fatigue.
It can be stressful and traumatic
The nature of the work does mean that some jobs could be quite stressful and traumatic. You will be helping people of all ages in an array of conditions. You will experience serious injuries and deaths. Measures will need to be taken to prevent compassion fatigue, PTSD and general work-related stress.
How to become a paramedic
To become a paramedic, you will usually first need to complete a formal training program based in a classroom or partially taken online. You will then get a certificate or associate degree after passing examinations.
On-the-job training will be required after this. Many people will first become an EMT (which requires first aid training, but less extensive medical knowledge) and then progress to being a paramedic. An EMS ride-along program could be worth trying out to give you first-hand experience of what a day in the life of an emergency responder is like. It’s worth noting that there are many different paramedic niches that you can explore from air ambulance services to sports event medical staff.
Conclusion
Becoming a paramedic could be a great job for those who want a stable and emotionally rewarding career. It’s ideal for those that dislike routine and don’t mind working unpredictable hours. You will need to be prepared for the stress and fatigue that can come with this role, as well as being able to complete the training.