Published on 11 August, 2023.
A career as an EMT is certainly an exciting one with no day ever the same. The role requires you to provide life-saving care to patients, something which Australian Paramedical College’s (APC) HLT41120 Certificate IV in Health Care and/or HLT51020 Diploma of Emergency Health Care (formerly known as HLT51015 Diploma of Paramedical Science) can equip you for.
If you’re eager to learn more about what an EMT is, salary expectations, training needed to become an EMT, read on!
What is an EMT?
EMTs, otherwise referred to as Emergency Medical Technicians, are known across the globe in both the private and public sectors. To summarise the role, EMTs are responsible for providing basic to advanced assistance in medical situations. You’ve likely seen them around large music festivals, competitions, sporting games and more.
What are the differences between an EMT and a Paramedic?
All in all, EMTs and paramedics complete the same training however paramedics go on to complete further education at university (completing a Bachelor of Paramedic Science) to enable them to treat more advanced injuries and illnesses in patients. This is why APC students with the HLT41120 Certificate IV in Health Care or HLT51020 Diploma of Emergency Health Care can apply for positions as a “medic” upon graduation but cannot call themselves paramedics without further completion of studies at university.
What could I expect as an EMT?
Salary of an EMT
Salaries for EMT’s have skyrocketed in the last few years, now with South Australia holding the highest average salary accross Australia. As an EMT you could expect an averge base salary upwards of $115,000.00
*Source: Emergency medical technician salary in Australia (indeed.com)
Common duties of an EMT
Some common duties for an EMT can include, but not be limited to:
- Attend events and respond to incidents or accidents involving patients.
- Provide life-saving techniquies as requied, inclusive of first aid, CPR, pain management and more.
- Offer transportation services where needed for patients.
- Administer drugs within your scope of practice as necessary.
- Request additional backup when the support needed is outside of your scope.
Did you know?
Health Care and Social Assistance occupation is expected to grow by 15.8% between 2021 to 2026. Thats 301,000 jobs!
*Source: Health Care and Social Assistance | Labour Market Insights*
The qualification needed to become an EMT
Whether you’re wishing to become an EMT or want to take the first steps to become a paramedic, the great news is that APC has developed courses to get you qualified in under two years!
The EMT course: HLT41120 – Certificate IV in Health Care
The HLT41120 – Certificate IV in Health Care is a nationally recognised course developed by healthcare professionals across Australia and is run over 12-18 months. It aims to provide individuals with the best possible education and prepare them for a successful career as an EMT. Students are provided with a basic-life support scope, allowing them to communicate and treat emergency and non-emergency patients, whilst also working close with police and fire emergency services.
The advanced EMT course: HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care
If you’re wanting to get that leg-up in the industry, APC’s HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care could be right for you! Also nationally recognised, the Diploma provides students with a more advanced-life support scope of practice, increasing their skillsets on shift within 18-24 months. Graduates can also decide to later upskill themselves through APC’s University Pathways.
Get EMT qualified!
APC is the perfect place to start if you’re wanting to look into a career as an EMT. With Trainers and Assessors holding years of experience within the basic and advanced life support sector, you’re in safe hands.
Click here to apply, or download your info packs for the Certificate IV and Diploma using the links below:
