Hot topic in my area. I had a 2 hour argument with my boss yesterday over this. At this time, the only UMBC program can be taught (they have a 200 mile restriction) in my area is rarely taught (last one was >2 years ago), and is one of the crappiest one's around (has the highest fail rate nationally). I have asked UMBC to allow me to start another one but their license agreement will not allow this without the other programs blessing. So, I attempted that and they said they would consider doing so......... 9 months ago and still waiting for an answer.
I even asked about having another UMBC program to come in to teach & have the instructors (all are nationally known) to do it. Again, have to have the local program permission.
Yes, I could just do it as other EMS has developed their own but I have seen anywhere from 2 week half arse to 6 month long so detailed most could not remember all of it type programs. I had contacted Ohio's Intensive Care Paramedic program a few years ago but they wanted the students to do clinicals there. Not logical.
So, after numerous committee meetings and heated verbal discussions, many education centers wanted to develop "their own". Something I see no advantage to. Again, no real criteria or competency to. Feeling that many just want additional classes and $$.
After many debates and researching hours, I came to the conclusion of allowing anyone that passes the new CCP-C (from IAFP) should be able to call themselves a CCP. This would allow any program to teach it. Similar to an RN that takes the CCRN or CEN (any specialty board cert) one would have had to have additional education and experience to pass the test.
This has multiple advantages.
Would allow reprocicity from other states CCP.
Standardization of testing
No costs to the State
Uniformity of at least minimal knowledge level
Nationally accredited tests
For some reason, I have the became the State representative on researching this and making a formal recommendation. So now I have the task of making a case for the State License and Certification Governing Board. Hopefully, I can get more and better information from IAFP regarding their tests and hopefully it will be ready for administration this fall. I respect their FP-C level and have discussed with some authors and reviewers of the CCP test that it will be more difficult than the previous FP-C exam and even more difficult than a CCRN test. Again, one of my reasons for recommending this acreditation.
So as the educator, I am now developing programs to prepare them to take the test. Albeit in "baby steps" as I have various education levels. We will require at the least 2 -3 years minimal experience and if possible a CCEMT-P type course before allowing taking the examination.
R/r 911
