Paramedic Programs in South Africa: 4 Years, 2 Years, and Short Courses

Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Care (BEMS)

In South Africa, aspiring paramedics have the opportunity to pursue a four-year Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Care (BEMS). This comprehensive program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to become qualified Advanced Life Support (ALS) practitioners, capable of delivering the highest level of pre-hospital emergency care. Prospective students interested in this program are advised to contact their chosen university for detailed information on costs and entrance requirements.

Emergency Care Technician (ECT) Course

For those seeking a more streamlined path, the Emergency Care Technician (ECT) course offers a two-year National Certificate. Graduates of this program work under the indirect control of a BTech paramedic. Institutions such as ER24 and Mediclinic provide the ECT course in Cape Town, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals.

Short Courses: A Changing Landscape

Basic Ambulance Assistant (BAA) – Basic Life Support

The entry-level qualification, Basic Ambulance Assistant (BAA), has traditionally been a seven-week course in Basic Life Support. However, as of January 2018, this route is being phased out, and the qualification will no longer result in registration. ER24 Training no longer offers the BAA course.

Ambulance Emergency Assistant (AEA) – Intermediate Life Support (ILS)

The mid-level Ambulance Emergency Assistant (AEA) course spans four months and builds upon the foundation laid during the BAA course. While still accepting applicants, this course will be phased out by December 2019. ER24 continues to offer this program in Paulshof, Johannesburg.

Critical Care Assistant (CCA) – Advanced Life Support

The highest level of short course training is the Critical Care Assistant (CCA) program, designed for ALS paramedics. This 11-month course is no longer offered, with only students already registered expected to complete it in 2017.

Choosing Your Path

The choice between pursuing a university degree or a shorter course is personal and depends on factors such as academic performance, finances, location, and personal preference. Candidates who recently matriculated and can afford four years of full-time university attendance may opt for the bachelor’s degree. However, short-course training is being phased out in favor of higher education standards, as mandated by the Minister of Education.

Admission Requirements and Criteria

Regardless of the chosen route, certain requirements must be met. These include a matric certificate, current registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) for a specified duration, and documented patient care experience. Entrance into programs often requires a good academic record in subjects such as maths, science, and/or biology. A physical assessment, including swimming, is also commonly a prerequisite.

The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) governs the standards for all medical training in the country. Their website contains a comprehensive list of accredited institutions offering emergency care training. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the HPCSA website at www.hpcsa.co.za for further information.

How to Register for Paramedic Programs with ER24

If you meet the minimum requirements for paramedic training mentioned above and are eager to embark on a rewarding career in emergency medical services, ER24 provides a straightforward registration process through its dedicated careers portal. Follow these steps to initiate your registration:

1. Ensure You Meet the Minimum Requirements

Before proceeding with the registration process, ensure that you fulfill the minimum requirements specified by ER24. These typically include possession of a matric certificate, current registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Basic Ambulance Assistant (BAA) for a specified duration, and documented patient care experience.

2. Visit the ER24 Careers Portal

Access the ER24 careers portal by navigating to https://er24.careers in your web browser. This portal serves as the central hub for individuals interested in pursuing a career with ER24 in the field of emergency medical services.

3. Explore Available Opportunities

Once on the careers portal, take the time to explore the available opportunities. ER24 may offer positions for various levels of emergency care, including Basic Life Support (BLS), Intermediate Life Support (ILS), and Advanced Life Support (ALS). Consider your qualifications and career goals when selecting the appropriate program.

4. Create an Account

To register and apply for a position or a training program, you will likely need to create an account on the ER24 careers portal. Look for a “Sign Up” or “Create Account” option, and provide the necessary information to set up your account.

5. Complete Your Profile

After creating an account, complete your profile with accurate and up-to-date information. This may include your educational background, work experience, and any additional certifications you hold.

6. Submit Your Application

Once your profile is complete, navigate to the specific program or position you are interested in and follow the application instructions provided. Submit all required documents and information as part of your application.

7. Monitor Application Status

After submitting your application, monitor your application status through the careers portal. ER24 may provide updates on the progress of your application, and you may be contacted for further assessments or interviews.

8. Additional Information and Support

If you encounter any issues during the registration process or have specific questions, ER24 may provide contact information or support resources on their careers portal. Reach out to the designated contacts for assistance.

By following these steps, you can initiate the registration process for paramedic programs with ER24. Remember to regularly check your application status and communicate promptly with the relevant personnel for a smooth and successful registration experience.

Employment Landscape in Emergency Medical Services

The demand for emergency medical services professionals varies, with two major employers being the government and private emergency services. Basic Life Support (BLS) providers currently face an oversupply in the country, requiring perseverance and commitment to secure full-time employment. Conversely, there is a significant demand for intermediate life support (ILS) and advanced life support (ALS) providers, making these areas highly sought after.

It’s important to note that completion of a course with institutions like the ER24 Training Academy does not guarantee automatic employment with the company.

Opportunities for Volunteer Work

While ER24 does not have a volunteer program, registered professionals may have the option to work part-time to fulfill specific needs at a branch. Interested individuals should contact the branch manager at their nearest ER24 base for information on potential part-time opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the paramedic program in South Africa offers diverse pathways for individuals aspiring to make a difference in medical jobs and careers. Whether choosing a university degree or a shorter course, aspiring paramedics should carefully consider their academic capabilities, financial resources, and personal preferences before embarking on this rewarding journey.