Answering the Call: Join EMS in Pennsylvania
The Need for EMS Volunteers and Professionals
America has always relied on the bravery and dedication of individuals who step up in times of crisis. From the patriots of George Washington’s army to the EMS responders at Ground Zero, our country has been built by ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Today, here in Northwestern Pennsylvania, we face a crisis that threatens lives—the critical shortage of trained Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals. Without enough responders, our communities are at risk. We need your help.
Start Your EMS Journey Today
EMS offers multiple entry points for those ready to serve their community. Whether you’re looking for a career or a volunteer opportunity, there’s a role for you.
EMS Training & Certification Levels
| Certification |
Role & Responsibilities |
Training Hours |
Minimum Age |
| Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) |
Provides basic lifesaving care and assists EMTs and paramedics. |
50+ |
16 |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) |
Performs injury treatment, splinting, and patient extrication. |
150-190 |
16 |
| Advanced EMT (AEMT) |
Administers medications, advanced airway maneuvers, and heart monitoring. Must be EMT-certified first. |
150-250 |
18 |
| Paramedic |
Provides advanced emergency care, IV therapy, and cardiac monitoring. Must be an EMT or AEMT first. |
1000-1200 |
18 |
| Pre-Hospital RN (PA PHRN) |
Registered nurses can apply their skills in EMS settings. |
Varies |
18 |
| Pre-Hospital Physician Extender |
Physician assistants can become certified to work in EMS. |
Varies |
18 |
Get Started Today!
Request More Information
Find a Training Program
More Ways to Help
You don’t have to be an EMT to support your local EMS. We need volunteers with skills in:
Grant Writing
Business Administration
Fundraising
Vehicle & Building Maintenance
Visit your local EMS station to learn how you can help!
Find Your Regional EMS Council
Pennsylvania’s EMS system is managed by Regional EMS Councils that oversee training, operations, and support.
Locate your region below and contact your EMS Council to get started!
| Region |
Phone |
Counties Covered |
| EMMCO West |
(814) 337-5380 |
Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Mercer, Venango, Warren |
| Emergency Medical Service Institute |
(412) 242-7322 |
Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, Westmoreland |
| EMMCO East, Inc. |
(814) 834-9212 |
Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, Potter |
| Southern Alleghenies EMS Council |
(814) 696-3200 |
Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, Somerset |
| Seven Mountains EMS Council |
(814) 355-1474 |
Centre, Clinton, Columbia, Juniata, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, Union |
| LTS EMS Council |
(570) 433-4461 |
Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga |
| Emergency Health Services Federation |
(717) 774-7911 |
Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, York |
| EMS of Northeastern PA |
(570) 655-6818 |
Bradford, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming |
| Eastern PA EMS Council |
(610) 820-9212 |
Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Schuylkill |
| Bucks Co. Emergency Health Services |
(215) 340-8735 |
Bucks |
| Montgomery County EMS |
(610) 278-2666 |
Montgomery |
| Chester County EMS Council |
(610) 344-5000 |
Chester |
| Delaware Emergency Health Services |
(610) 891-5310 |
Delaware |
| Philadelphia EMS Council |
(215) 685-4216 |
Philadelphia |
FAQs: Your EMS Questions Answered
How do I get started in EMS?
All training programs are conducted through PA Department of Health-accredited institutes. Find a training location near you by contacting your regional EMS council.
What career opportunities does EMS open up?
EMS can lead to opportunities in:
- Paid EMS Services
- Rescue Teams
- Hospital & Flight Medicine
- 911 Dispatch
How do I know if EMS is right for me?
EMS professionals are caring, quick-thinking, and strong communicators. If you’re passionate about helping people in emergencies, EMS could be a perfect fit!
Is driving an ambulance fun?
Yes! But it’s also a serious responsibility. EMS professionals undergo specialized Emergency Vehicle Driving courses to ensure safety.
What do I need to maintain my certification?
- Continuing Education
- Re-registration every few years
- Healthcare-level CPR recertification every two years
What’s the best part of being an EMS professional?
Saving lives and making a difference in your community. From welcoming new life into the world to comforting those in distress, EMS work is both challenging and rewarding.
Take the Next Step Today
If not you, then who?
Call your local EMS station or council today!
Request More Information
Visit an EMS station near you!
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