Should I become an EMT-Basic before getting certified as an EMT-Paramedic?

In most states it would be a requirement before taking the EMT-P class. You don't see a doctor going to med school right out of high school no matter how much of a brainiac they are. In NC the following are available... EMT-B (basic) EMT-I (intermediate) EMT-P (paramedic) There also used to be an EMT-D (defibrillation) that was an additional 20hrs above a basic level but since the defibrillator is no longer a controlled device in NC I think they did away with it. Also, becoming a fire fighter is not just a job, it's something you have to love, something that is almost like a calling to you. You'll be competing against guys who have volunteered for years and are fully certified and ready to go so do some homework and make sure this is what you truly want to do. To steal a line from the Navy, it's not just a job, it's an adventure.

No question about it. The responsibilities of a paramedic are far greater than an EMT. That's why paramedics are so valuable. I have never heard of a paramedic program that will even accept an applicant without at least a couple of years of experience as an EMT basic. The road to an EMS career is longer than most would expect, but definitely a rewarding one. Hope this helps.

You are required to take an EMT-B class before you can even be considered for a paramedic class, in ALL states. You're looking at a huge commitment, so make sure you know what you're getting into before signing on for thousands of hours of school! Not all firefighters can swing it in EMS... not all EMS can swing it in firefighting (I know I wouldn't, and don't want to!) And definately don't go into the field if you're trying to get rich! While FF/paramedics do tend to make more money than FF's alone, or medics who work for private or hospital-based services, it's still not a "get rich quick" job! I am by no means trying to talk you out of becoming a paramedic- lord knows we have a HUGE shortage! But it's because of everything I've already said (and the long shifts.. the list goes on...) that we have that shortage! If you do take on the challenge, good luck!

In my state it's required that you be a Basic before you can begin any more advanced certification. Even if it weren't required I would highly recommend it. Getting experiance in the EMS world will help you immensly in your Paramedic training. Good luck!