The gang discusses the controversies and challenges over paramedic degrees. We look at the IAFC and NAEMSP position statements....which are completely at odds.

We also discuss the idea of the value of the degrees, and yes, there IS evidence for it!

If you are depending on a trained person in an austere (not a hospital) environment, why would you NOT want the highest educated, highest trained person there?

In an austere environment, when all you have is a bag and a brain...do we want that brain to be the best possible?

Why doesn't 1+1=2 in prehospital medicine? Do prehospital clinicians WANT to be better?

https://cbcny.org/research/reviving-ems

Percentage of EMS responses by FDNY in 2017

https://www.emsworld.com/sites/emsworld.com/files/2018-10/joint_position_statement_on_.pdf

Caffrey, et al. on the value of a degreeh

https://www.iafc.org/about-iafc/positions/position/oppose-proposed-degree-requirements-for-accredited-paramedic-programs

IAFC position statement on paramedic degrees