I know we have a few EMT's on the forum, so I wanted to get you guys all in one place to ask you a question.
I've been looking into starting an EMT-B (eventually Paramedic, in a year or two) program because I've always wanted to work in EMS, but I'm curious about a few things.
1. I'm not going to lie, I'm a generally small girl who struggles with lifting 100lbs by herself, but could probably lift 300lbs with another person as long as they were actually helping.
Because of the general fact that I am a young (21), small (as in 5'4" 120lbs) female is this going to make getting a job as an EMT difficult? I'm outgoing and friendly, but I'm worried that the fact that I look weak will lessen my chances for getting a job as an EMT. I know females are EMT's, I just haven't run into any that look like me yet.
2. Is a private ambulance company a better choice over a hospital? I've heard mixed opinions about this.
3. I've also heard that taking mainly transfer calls instead of 911 calls will get you more money. Is this true?
I know EMT's don't make that much in Texas, and considering I need to make a minimum of $20,000 a year (really I need $30,000/year), I need to try and find the area which is going to make me the most.
4. Driving the rig-does the EMT always do it or does the Paramedic? I'm a little nervous about driving the rig (I was in a very bad car accident a few years ago and even driving to work in my Toyota Camry can be a little scary when I'm driving in Houston traffic). I mean, I'm sure this is something I can eventually cope with (and should, because it's been three years), I was just curious how the driving usually worked. If it was equal, or if the Paramedic was usually in the back with the patient during most calls.
Anyway, any other helpful information would be great.
I enjoy the field of EMS and am pretty excited to start my program-it's just that my biggest worry is if I'll be able to get a job after all that hard work (and money for tuition!).