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How to Become a Paramedic in Ontario?

Mar 5, 2024 | Paramedic

Canada expects to see continued growth in employment for a paramedic in Ontario, especially for nontraditional roles in hospital emergency rooms, community care instead of ambulances.   

The perception from the public has changed over time, from ambulance drivers to essential frontline healthcare workers, has led to a rapid increase in paramedic applicants.   

Toronto EMS is the largest paramedic employer in Canada, and demand in Northern Ontario is also rising. Currently, a paramedic in Ontario works for any of the 51 municipal paramedic services regulated under the Ambulance Act (1990) and Regulations.   

What is Paramedic?

A paramedic is a healthcare professional who is trained to provide emergency medical care outside of a hospital setting. They are often the first responders to medical emergencies, and they work as part of the emergency medical services (EMS) system.

How to Become a Paramedic in Ontario?  

There are two levels of the term, the one is primary care paramedic and the other is which higher level; Advanced care paramedic. They both have different admission criteria but before we discuss education and training, there are some basic requirements to become a paramedic: 

  • Must be a High School graduate – Biology and Science  
  • Applicant must be at least 18 years of age  
  • Be able to read, write and speak in English  
  • Be physically fit and able to lift  
  • Must be free from all communicable diseases  
  • Must have current immunizations and should possess proof of immunity.   
  • Must have at least G license before starting the training and should have Class F Ontario driver’s license before the completion of the training program.   

What is the Eligibility Criteria required to become a Paramedic in Ontario?

Aspiring paramedics in Canada must undergo a specific educational and training program to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively. There are 5-steps to cover before you become one. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements…

Education and Training  

The paramedic training program is rigorous. Many community colleges offer the two-year program, and few career colleges also offer fast-track diploma programs. The curriculum consists of both theoretical and clinical training at hospitals, fire departments and ambulance base.

Paramedic students learn life-saving techniques including; anatomy, physiology, advanced life support, basic trauma support and pediatric life support. Moreover, first Aid & CPR are prerequisites for paramedic programs, but many institutes include that in training.   

Provincial Certification Exam  

To become a paramedic, every student must successfully pass the provincial certification exam – Advanced Emergency Medical Care Attendant (A-EMCA)  

Recruitment Testing  

Upon becoming provincially licensed AEMCA, one may apply to work in EMS. For Peel Regional Paramedic Services, all potential paramedic recruits take part in the Centralized Paramedic Competency Recruitment Testing.   

Pre-Hospital Testing  

Once employed, new recruits have to successfully complete a certification exam by a local base hospital physician. This is essential to perform delegate medical acts under the doctor’s authority.   

Post-Employment  

Once you are successfully employed, you must recertify annually in defibrillation, drug administration and CPR. It is mandatory to maintain a valid Class F Ontario driver’s license, and be free from communicable diseases.  

Where can I Study Paramedic in Ontario?

If you want to become a Paramedic in Ontario, Paramedic Academy – Mississauga is your best bet!  

Paramedic Academy of BizTech College is committed to training aspiring paramedic professionals. Our programs are approved by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

Therefore, our primary care paramedic program is dynamic, career-focused, featured with practical learning under the supervision of active paramedics and industry certified professionals, giving students access to knowledge and expertise required on-the-job.  Apply here!

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