Prerequisites

1.      Communication

a.       Able to read, understand and communicate in English

2.      Mandatory Student Prerequisites: All applicants for entrance into the Program are required to meet the following minimum criteria:

·                     Minimum 18 yr. old

·                     Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent

·                     Possession and maintenance of the following credentials for the duration of the program

-          A current EMT-Basic or Intermediate certificate from Massachusetts, the National Registry or a state recognized as having equivalent training and certification by the EMSP Division

-          Basic Cardiac Life Support Provider Certification – AHA Healthcare Provider

-          Provide a valid driver’s license

-          Health insurance coverage.

·                     Successful performance on a pre-screening examination on cognitive objectives of the 1994 revised EMT-Basic curriculum, anatomy & physiology, and basic English & math proficiency.

·                     It is preferred that students enter the Program with a formal knowledge of Anatomy & Physiology; however, Anatomy & Physiology will be presented throughout the course.

·                     Successful performance in interview with the Paramedic Program Faculty.

At least 3 letters of recommendation, two of which will be from EMS providers in the community where the EMT is currently practicing or has practiced.  In addition, one letter of recommendation must be from an agency in which the applicant is providing care, has recently worked for, or is planning to provide paramedic level prehospital care.

·                     Review and attest in writing their acceptance and understanding of the paramedic internship Statement. 

·                     Review and attest in writing receipt of, and agreement to adhere to the First Response Paramedic Program Policy Manual.  Attachment A:  Policy Agreement Testimonial Form

·                     Demonstration of appropriate immunizations as required by state, field, and clinical sites of the program or signed waivers for each of the immunizations.

3.      General Health:

a.       All students should be in good physical and mental health, free from disease and chemical addition or abuse. Any student found to be under the influence of narcotics chemical or alcohol will be terminated from the program. Should a faculty member of FIRST RESPONSE suspect abuse FIRST RESPONSE may request that the student submit to a medical test/exam at the student’s expense in order to determine the student’s suitability within the classroom or field sites. Failure to comply with this request will result in the student’s removal from the program.

b.      The student must also be able to lift and carry 125 pounds

4.      Certification: (CPR):

a.       All students wishing to participate in our EMT-P program must attend and successfully complete our Health Care Provider CPR portion of the program. Our Health Care Provider CPR is usually covered during the first three nights of our program. If a student already possesses a HCP card he/she may choose to attend the third night of our program only in order to be tested as to their competency. If the student chooses to test on the third night only they MUST successfully pass the exam prior to being enrolled.

b.      Any student attending a FIRST RESPONSE EMT-P program must have a HCP CPR card which will remain current for at least three months beyond the end of our program.

5.      CORI:

a.       CORI applications ARE NOT generally required of a student to participate in this program. However this does not prevent FIRST RESPONSE from requesting that a student submit to a CORI check. Failure to comply with this request may result in the student’s removal from the program.

6.                        Students must be certified as Massachusetts EMT’s prior to the start of the Clinical internship.