So, why exactly is it that medical school doesn't require their students to be PAs first nor does nursing school require their students to be LVNs or CNAs first? What exactly is EMS education doing wrong to require students to be at a level that, at best, can be described as an advanced first aid level with a minimal science background?
Medical schools have found out over the centuries that one can be educated to a high standard without breaking down into multiple levels. Also that many would stop and never continue onward, if allowed to. Remember the difference is that they have the general education and upper level of scientific studies behind them as they continue onto medical school. Basically the making of a physician however; without the medical education.
P.A.'s were developed as physician assistants for overwhelmed physicians, they were never intended or design to replace the physician or a step to become one.
I find it ironic most medical schools do not honor or recognize courses in the P.A. program. Even those that it maybe the same course or correlate that medical students get credit for (I think that is unfair). So usually being a P.A. does not shorten the length of medical school, again a different profession and different responsibilities. As the P.A. is under the orders of the physician.
The same as nursing. Many programs will allow one to sit for the LPN examination after the first year of nursing school (most do not recommend) or may shorten the RN program if they are able to pass advanced standing tests and have clinical experience (the same as the bridge of Paramedic to RN). Again, different responsibilities and totally different license. As well, they too have to have basic education prior to admission. As well, the LPN is under the supervision of a RN.
Both have entry requirements of science prior to entry level as well as many others have procedures before allowing admission to the chosen profession. EMT does not have the basic science. The Basic level curriculum has been evaluated at the junior high science level, as well the length can be accomplished in two weeks to 16 weeks. In comparison at the technical education level, equivalent to CMA, etc. and the Paramedic usually 10 months long has been compared to the LPN level. Of course, there is different curriculum's and demands from different program requirements all dependent on the institution requirements.
Those that enter medical school or RN usually have a specific goal. They usually have no desire to use their profession as a stepping stone going onto to another profession. It is all or nothing. Their profession stands alone and strong enough without fragmenting and developing substitute levels. Yes, there is CNA, CMA, etc.. again, these were to assist nurses, never replace or place in lieu. Those professions realize there should not be any substitute, rather an adjunct or assisting the licensed professional.
I have never quite understood the reason there is so many reasons or excuses of not obtaining the main course in EMS. EMS courses are much more reasonable in course and usually faster and less time consuming in comparison to any other medical professional.
Why, one would not get a loan for school (like all other professions) but will purchase light bars, sirens, radios, and other whacker devices. Usually it is the priority that is the difference.
Consider this, if there were no multiple levels only one, look at how many patients would receive ALS care instead of BLS. The community and public would have EMS care, they would see that it would occur somehow.
R/r 911
