23/09/2026
We often get asked “what’s the difference between you two” or “Why are there so many of you here” - So here’s a little insight into the why!
The ambulance service is made up of many different practice levels (ATPs), sometimes crews need backup from each other in order to give you the best care possible. The levels are:
First Responder/Emergency Medical Assistant - entry level, provides immediate life saving treatment such as bleeding control and oxygenation. Usually crewed with an EMT or above unless on a first response unit.
EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) - the next step. This level of qualification requires a diploma in Paramedic Science. Staff at this ATP provide inhaled, intramuscular and oral medications as well as all the other basics.
Paramedic - third step on the ladder. This ATP provides all the above as well as IV access, a myriad of other drugs and skills like cardio version. Requires a university degree.
Intensive Care Paramedic (ICP) - provide pre hospital intensive treatment to some of our most ill patients with treatments like IV Magnesium for Asthma.
Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) - provides all the above, specialising in critical care in the pre hospital setting e.g rapid sequence intubation. Requires all the above plus post grad at university.
Extended care paramedic (ECP) - Experts in community care with an extremely wide scope of practice including at home wound care, suturing and catheter troubleshooting/replacement. Also requires postgrad study.
We could go on all day but hopefully this gives you a bit of insight into why you might see so many of our green team! 🚑🚑
