California reciprocity: local accreditation

[ExpatMedic0]

Hey folks, I have been working overseas with just my NREMT paramedic for several years, however recently it was required I also obtain a state licence. California seemed like a straight forward state to obtain a state paramedic licence in, and I have family there, so I downloaded there reciprocity paper work. However, what happens if I do not attain local accreditation with an agency? Does it say so on my state licence? I am only buying this licence as a formality as the new company I work for overseas requires both NREMT and a unrestricted state licence, I do not plan to work in California. Any other advise, information, or suggestions?

 

[JPINFV]

In your case, I don't think it matters if you have a county accreditation ("local ems agency") since you aren't planning on practicing in California.

 

[ExpatMedic0]

As far as you know lack of local accreditation will not alter the status of the state licence itself? For example, will it have a status of "non-accredited" or "provisional" or anything like this stamped on it, or amended onto the licence verification? I need a "non-restricted" state licence.
Also, I notice this is a "licence" and not a "certification" anything special apply to it?

 

[beareagle]

As far as you know lack of local accreditation will not alter the status of the state licence itself? For example, will it have a status of "non-accredited" or "provisional" or anything like this stamped on it, or amended onto the licence verification? I need a "non-restricted" state licence.
Also, I notice this is a "licence" and not a "certification" anything special apply to it?

No, it will be a fully valid license.

"Local accreditation" is just another hoop that CA makes you jump through and basically involves paying additional money to a local EMS agency(LEMSA) and taking a protocol test to clear you to work under that counties medical director. Since you aren't planning to work in CA, this is a moot point.

However, since you don't want to actually work in CA, you might want to look at other states to get a license in since they'll probably be cheaper.

 

[Akulahawk]

As far as you know lack of local accreditation will not alter the status of the state licence itself? For example, will it have a status of "non-accredited" or "provisional" or anything like this stamped on it, or amended onto the licence verification? I need a "non-restricted" state licence.
Also, I notice this is a "licence" and not a "certification" anything special apply to it?

Yes, the Paramedic License is indeed a license. Accreditation is simply a way to show that you've been oriented and demonstrated your ability to work within a particular EMS system. An unaccredited Paramedic can't do any ALS in any EMS system that requires the accreditation. Since you won't be working in California, this lack of accreditation is moot and the fact that you're providing ALS care outside of California doesn't affect your California License.

That being said, California's licensing system is a bit interesting. It costs about $200/2 year renewal cycle and they WILL want to know that you met all of their licensing requirements and may require that you do a field internship or other "remediation" if they deem your training/education/experience insufficient.

You might be better off in the long run by choosing a different state whose license requirements are less costly and allows you to retain your license simply by doing CE regardless of where you actually live.

 

[ExpatMedic0]

Thanks, I will definitely keep all that in mind.