Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Medical First Responder & Emergency Medical Technician?
The MFR/EMR provides immediate lifesaving care to patients who have accessed the EMS system. The MFR/EMR is usually the first on scene and will wait for a higher level EMS practitioner to arrive and takeover care. The MFR/EMR takes patient vital signs; utilizes basic airway, ventilation, and oxygen therapy devices; and provides stabilization of the spine and suspected extremity injuries. The MFR/EMR is also trained in eye irrigation, bleeding control, emergency moves, CPR, automated external defibrillation, and emergency childbirth care.
The EMT provides basic emergency medical care and transportation to patients who access the EMS system. The interventions provided by the EMT include those performed by the EMR but with basic equipment found on an ambulance (EMT is commonly the lowest level of certification allowed to work on an ambulance). The EMT utilizes pulse oximetry, advanced oxygen therapy and ventilation equipment, automatic blood pressure monitoring equipment, and limited medication administration.
What is the expected salary of an EMT?
The average salary for an EMT in Michigan is around $30,000 a year. This varies based on where you work, and other associated certifications.
For more information on EMS as a career, visit: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292041.htm#st
What is the time commitment expected of me during an education program?
Each student is different, and everyone learns differently. You can expect to spend at least 5-10 hours per week on course work. You will be expected to read the assigned chapters each week, as well as participate in class sessions and complete the quiz or module exam outside of the classroom.
Do I only have to spend time in the classroom to pass my EMT?
You will be required to complete 48 hours of ride-along (clinical) time on an ambulance. These are typically broken up into 12 to 14 hour shifts, which is customary in EMS and most acute-care settings. We have clinical contracts with a number of agencies and hospital systems to suit your needs.
What immunizations do I need to have?
As stated in the clinical contracts BDI and the program sponsor holds with our partner sites, the student must receive and show proof to the program Clinical Coordinator:
▪ Hepatitis B Vaccine series (Second dose in series)
▪ TB Skin test within the previous year
▪ Standard Immunizations:
o Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids
o Measles Vaccine*
o Mumps Vaccine*
o Rubella Vaccine**
o Poliovirus Vaccine
o Varicella Vaccine**
Students are required to obtain a flu shot for programs that will be completing clinicals during the CDC recognized flu season.
*Born since 1956 must have documentation of two doses on or after 1st birthday or proof of zero-positivity
**Must have documentation of vaccination on or after 1st birthday or proof of zero-positivity
Students are also required to obtain a 10-panel urine drug screen (at the students cost). Currently waived as students will not complete observation in the ER due to COVID.
What are your program Pass rates?
