Continuing Education for EMTs: Meeting Recertification Requirements

Continuing education is critically important for EMTs to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills to provide effective emergency medical care. EMTs are required to meet recertification requirements every few years through ongoing education in areas such as Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). This ensures they are competent in the latest clinical protocols, guidelines, and equipment needed to respond to medical emergencies.

EMT recertification involves completing a set amount of continuing education hours in subjects relevant to an EMT’s scope of practice. Requirements are determined at both the national and state level. While there are some standard components across the country, each state adds specific requirements tailored to local protocols.

This article will provide an overview of national recertification standards through the National Continued Competency Program (NCCP). It will then explore state-specific requirements using Texas, New York and California as examples. The benefits of online continuing education options for emergency recertification will also be reviewed. Finally, tips will be provided for EMTs to effectively meet their recertification requirements.

National Continued Competency Program (NCCP)

The National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) was established in 2016 to streamline and standardise EMT recertification requirements across the country. The NCCP outlines a three-component model for maintaining competence:

  • National component – This makes up 50% of the required continuing education hours. It covers core knowledge and skills that apply to EMTs nationwide, such as airway management, cardiovascular emergencies, and trauma.
  • Local component – This comprises 25% of the required hours. It focuses on topics specific to an EMT’s state, region, or local service including protocols, guidelines, and equipment.
  • Individual component – The remaining 25% of hours are customised to each EMT’s knowledge gaps, specialties, and professional goals.

Within this model, the National Registry of EMTs sets the national education standards while state agencies and employers add supplemental requirements. By blending national consistency with local flexibility, the NCCP aims to improve the recertification process for EMTs across the country.

State-Specific Requirements

While the NCCP provides an overall framework, individual states have their own laws and regulations for EMT recertification. This allows states to tailor requirements to local protocols and needs. Here are examples of state-specific requirements:

Texas

Texas requires EMTs to complete 48 hours of continuing education every 2 years prior to their certification expiration date. At least 24 of these hours must cover key topics like airway management, cardiac care, and OB/GYN. The remaining hours can be on general medical subjects. Hands-on skills verification is also required.

New York

In New York, EMTs must complete 25 hours of refresher education plus 15 hours of continuing education for a total of 40 hours every 3 years. The refresher education reviews core knowledge and skills while the continuing education covers emerging practices and protocols.

California

California EMTs must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. At least 2 hours are required in each of the following topics: proper use of equipment, local EMS policies, and field response to local trauma patient protocols. The remaining hours can be elective subjects.

Online Continuing Education Options

With busy schedules and varied work shifts, finding time for continuing education can be challenging for EMTs. Online education has become an extremely popular option. Benefits of online EMT continuing education include:

  • Convenience – Courses can be completed anytime, anywhere there is an internet connection. This allows EMTs to fit study time into their schedule.
  • Self-paced – EMTs can work at their own pace based on their availability and learning style.
  • Cost savings – Online courses are generally more affordable than in-person training.
  • Relevant content – A wide range of engaging, interactive courses are available on current EMT practice.

There are many reputable providers offering online EMT continuing education. A few top options include:

  • CE Solutions – Offers 24-hour EMT refresher bundles accepted for NREMT recertification along with a la carte courses.
  • EMS1 Academy – Provides online EMT refresher bundles plus continuing education on emerging topics.
  • CareerCert – Features a 24-hour EMT refresher course and targeted continuing education courses.
  • EMT-CE – Has 24-hour refresher bundles meeting NCCP national requirements.

Online education combined with hands-on skills training is an effective approach for EMT recertification.

Tips for Meeting Recertification Requirements

Here are some key tips for EMTs to successfully meet their recertification requirements:

  • Stay up-to-date – Regularly check your state EMS authority and the NREMT websites for the latest recertification rules and policies. Requirements can change year to year.
  • Plan ahead – Don’t wait until the last minute. Give yourself time to complete all required continuing education hours before your certification expiration date.
  • Mix online and in-person training – Combine online courses for convenience with local hands-on skills sessions for proficiency.
  • Prioritise required topics – Ensure you cover state-mandated topic areas like equipment use and local protocols early in your cycle.
  • Leverage mobile apps and tools – Apps can help you organise, track, and remind you about upcoming recertification deadlines.
  • Find the time – Schedule dedicated time blocks for continuing education just as you would for work shifts.

Staying current through EMT recertification education allows you to continue providing exceptional, lifesaving care to your community.

Conclusion

Maintaining competence through continuing education and meeting EMT recertification requirements is a critical responsibility. The National Continued Competency Program creates a framework to guide this process. However, EMS providers must also be aware of and comply with any additional state-specific requirements.

Online continuing education offers a flexible and affordable option to learn the latest clinical guidelines and protocols. Hands-on skills training is still essential for proficiency though. By utilising all available resources, EMTs can balance work and continuing education.

Staying current with medical advances, technology, and evolving practices allows EMTs to deliver the best possible care to patients. Recertification promotes public safety and trust in EMS professionals. Meeting requirements at both the national and state level is essential for EMTs to maintain the knowledge and expertise required to save lives.


Himshikha Shukla