I totally agree. Being that the 'profession' is so young, this will obviously take time. So who/what entity that currently exists has the potential to get the ball rolling. What types of things can be done at the bottom end?
EMS is well into being middle-aged with it being over 40 years old. It is one of the older allied health professsions but the only one that has not established itself with even a mere 2 year degree for entry level. The other professions are now moving past the 2 year degree and on to 4 year and Masters' degrees for entry level.
The one way is through at least a strong state and/or national organization to unify the EMS providers. Unfortunately since FF/medics hate private Paramedics and this one doesn't like that one, there is little chance for much unity to come to a decision. Also, since FDs require their FFs to become Paramedics on hire or within the first year, the likehood of support for increased educational standards from the FF union will be slim to nil. This I do know since I have be fighting that battle in FL for many years. At least 30 years ago, some FDs did recognize education for the Paramedic and supported the 2 year degree. But unfortunately those old timers who promoted education in the FDs for EMS have retired.