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FAEMSE Position Statement

Position on Mandatory Associate Degrees for Entry-Level Paramedic Certification

Approved by the FAEMSE
Board of Directors At Its Meeting On 8-May-1999

FAEMSE believes that the recent debate over mandatory Associate degrees for entry-level paramedic certification has distorted the focus away from what is desirable versus what is necessary.

We believe that encouraging EMS professionals to seek, at a minimum, an Associate degree will enhance the professional image of the EMS profession in the eyes of our medical colleagues. We urge the State of Florida and EMS employers to recognize such degree-completion, in the form of added compensation, in much the same way that many firefighters are now recognized for attainment of Fire-Science degrees

However, there is no scientific evidence to support a position that a college degree at the Associate level, or at any level for that matter, will make one a better paramedic. FAEMSE therefore DOES NOT support the establishment of statute or rules that would require a postsecondary degree as part of entry-level paramedic certification in the State of Florida.

Expanded postsecondary education may improve communication capabilities, expand one's understanding of the scientific process, teach management skills and broaden one's horizons beyond the narrowly focused scope of street medicine. Recognizing the possible personal growth inherent in expanded postsecondary education, we strongly encourage all EMS professionals, EMT-Basic and paramedic, to voluntarily pursue a postsecondary degree.

FAEMSE believes that the current method of education and certification of paramedics will continue to provide well-educated, entry-level paramedics who will adequately serve their primary mission, providing quality patient care and that should be the only prerequisite for admission to our profession at the paramedic level.

 

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