What does an Emergency Medical Tech do?

Emergency medical technicians are healthcare professionals who provide urgent medical treatment, typically in an ambulance or at the site of an accident or other emergency. They generally do not have the level of advanced training as a paramedic, although in some settings the two titles may be used interchangeably. They serve as first responders and perform initial assessments, while also providing immediate basic care such as supplying oxygen or addressing wounds and other serious injuries. Their objective is to stabilize patients or provide critical care until the patient can be transported to a medical facility.

Emergency medical technicians have completed an EMT training and certification program, and must have a valid EMT license, along with BLS certification and any other required credentials. They must be able to remain calm and focused in stressful situations.