Sacramento Fire last week launched its new Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Trainee program, which will provide 19 local Sacramento aspiring paramedics with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve the community.
The program provides tuition assistance for education as well as mentorship and trains and certifies individuals through a part-time paid internship program.
Upon completion of the program, licensed paramedics will be eligible for Sacramento Fire’s 12-month probationary Fire Paramedic or the training classification of Fire Recruit Paramedic.
“Our new EMS Trainee program embodies our commitment to inclusivity and mirrors the diverse fabric of the community we serve,” said Sacramento Fire Chief Chris Costamagna. “We are proud to cultivate a program that not only saves lives but also celebrates the richness of our city.”
During their first week, trainees received their uniforms and essential supplies. They also met and were greeted with a welcome message from the Fire Chief and the department’s deputy chiefs.
EMS Trainees are required to enroll in and attend college courses. The program provides tuition assistance for education as well as mentorship and will train and certify individuals through a part-time paid internship program.
Based on readiness, experience, and current certifications, EMS Trainees have been placed in one of two internship tiers: EMT Internship or Paramedic Internship.
The length of the program will be from 12 to 48 months depending on the level of college experience and EMS training upon entry to the program.
Under the guidance of a certified Emergency Medical Technician or licensed Paramedic, EMS Trainees will assist in the emergency medical care of the sick and injured. They will be expected to follow all applicable state and local laws, regulations and policies.
The trainees will be exposed to a wide range of emergency situations, responding alongside their mentors. Facing high-intensity scenarios such as cardiac arrests as well as assisting patients with minor injuries, trainees will be challenged to think critically and act swiftly.
With a solid foundation in place, the EMS Trainee program is poised to shape the future of emergency medical services in Sacramento, officials said.