Provision of emergency medical services (EMS) is a unique and vital community service. Paramedics are highly skilled members of a health care team who function within the discipline of emergency and pre-hospital care. Paramedics initiate medical treatment for individuals in urgent and non-urgent situations. Based on sound knowledge, these practitioners demonstrate rational problem-solving abilities and excellent decision-making skills. This program addresses the operational/procedural skills of primary care paramedics, as well as the ethical and professional behaviours such as effective communication. Mental/physical fitness and healthy lifestyles are emphasized throughout the program, as paramedics must be fit to perform the requirements of the occupation.
The Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) to Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP) program is a 9-semester diploma program offering training to EMRs who are presently practicing in Newfoundland and Labrador.
This part-time diploma program is designed with a blended delivery model and part-time schedule to promote advancement of skills from the EMR level of practice to the PCP level. This program engages students online in virtual classrooms, with on-campus labs, and clinical simulation. These paired with a robust clinical practicum will support students in meeting the requirements for entry-to-practice PCP level in accordance with the National Occupational Competency Profile for Paramedics (NOCP).
Students will be required to attend all on campus laboratory sessions offered throughout the semester, the frequency and amount of time required each semester will vary based on course requirements. In addition, there are two full-time clinical placements that are mandatory in the program (Semester 6 for 3 weeks and Semester 9 for 14 weeks).
This is a challenging program that provides students with extensive classroom and clinical/practicum experience. Graduates of this program will be prepared to work in a competent and skillful manner providing pre-hospital care in accordance with the national standards for paramedics.
OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate required skills, knowledge, and abilities, as prescribed by the Paramedic Association of Canada National Occupational Competency Profile with consistency, independence, timeliness, accuracy, and appropriateness.
- Integrate assessment, diagnostic, and treatment procedures into the holistic management of patients in the out-of-hospital setting.
- Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills that promote logical and independent decision-making in the provision of paramedic care.
- Maintain a level of physical and mental health necessary to perform the bona fide occupational requirements.
- Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with other members of the health care team to serve patients and employers with the highest degree of competence.
- Reflect professionalism through personal deportment and public interactions.
- Demonstrate ethical behaviour, empathy and respect for individuals.
ACCREDITATION
The
Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP) program is accredited by Accreditation Canada until
June 2025.
This program is currently “Accredited” with Accreditation Canada/EQual. Our “Accredited” status serves as an important demonstration of our commitment to providing quality education in alignment with accreditation and regulatory requirements. If you require additional information regarding our accreditation status and endeavors and/or any potential implications our accreditation status may have on your future abilities to practice as a healthcare professional, we encourage you to reach out to the Dean for the School of Health Sciences.
CLINICAL PLACEMENTS
Clinical placements are a required element of this program and students will be assigned placements at approved training sites. There is no guarantee that students will receive a placement at their preferred clinical site. All expenses associated with the completion of clinical placement will be the responsibility of the student.
Students require a clear Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record Check and Vulnerability Sector Check) to be permitted into a clinical placement. Students with an unclear Certificate of Conduct are advised to contact
student.placements@cna.nl.ca prior to beginning the program.
For programs with competitive admissions, clinical placements are not affected by ranking in the competitive admissions process and will be determined under institutional guidelines.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of an Emergency Medical Responder program
- Current licensure as an Emergency Medical Responder in the province of NL
- Minimum of one-year experience (1,900 hours) as an EMR
- High School Graduation
- Letter of Support from Employer
Additional Requirements Upon Acceptance
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Class 04 Driver’s License (minimum)
- Valid* Certificate of Conduct, including Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check
- Students will require a clear and current Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check) prior to clinical practicum. Applicants with a criminal offense listed on their Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check) may be denied access to clinical placement and may be unable to complete their program.
- Immunization Record providing evidence that the applicant has received the required vaccinations/screening tests. Completing the immunization record will require physician's visits, blood tests, and a TB screening test; detailed instructions are included on the School of Health Sciences Student Information and Program Awareness Form. The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all medical requirements are fulfilled, and the immunization record complete before submission. Certain vaccinations require a series of immunizations over a period; therefore, it is essential to start the process as early as possible. The applicant is also responsible for all associated costs (vaccinations, laboratory testing, physician fees, certificate of conduct fees, etc.).
*Acceptance of the Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record) is at the discretion of the organization in which the clinical practicum is being sought