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1. What does the Tuolumne County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agency do?

A local EMS agency is responsible for the certification of emergency medical technicians (EMTs), first responders (FRs), the authorizing of mobile intensive care nurses (MICNs), and the local accreditation of paramedics and flight nurses. The local ambulance services, both ground and air ambulances, must be permitted by the EMS agency. The EMS agency must also organize the EMS system, maintain treatment guidelines and policies, and investigate complaints and unusual occurrences. Disaster response planning and mutual aid for medical assets are also the responsibility of the EMS agency. The EMS agency must annually submit an EMS Plan to the California EMS authority. This plan outlines the current capabilities of the EMS system, areas that need improvement, and how those improvements are to be made.

2. How can I become an EMT?

You must successfully complete an EMT training course that uses Department of Transportation (DOT) approved curriculum., and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMTs) examinations. Upon successful completion of these requirements, you may apply for certification at the local EMS Agency. You must have proof of current CPR/AED training, pay the established fees, and submit your fingerprints for a Department of Justice (DOJ) Livescan criminal history check.

3. How do I recertify as an EMT?

You must possess a current EMT-I certification issued in California, and obtain at least twenty-four hours of continuing education from an approved EMS continuing education provider or successfully complete a twenty-four hour EMT-I refresher course from an approved EMT-I training program. (If your certification has lapsed for more than six months, additional continuing education will be required) You must complete an application and an affidavit stating that the applicant is not precluded from certification as an EMT-I and complete a Livescan criminal background check the State of California Department of Justice. (This requirement does not apply for applicants with a current and valid EMT-I certification issued by the Tuolumne County EMS Agency.) and pay the certification fee established by the Board of Supervisors. You must also submit a copy of a current State of California Driver's License, Identification Card or Military Identification Card, and submit a completed skills competency verification form, EMSA-SCV (07/03).

4. How can I become a first responder?

You must successfully complete a first responder training course that uses Department of Transportation (DOT) approved curriculum and then pass the certification examination. Upon successful completion of these requirements, you may apply for certification at the local EMS Agency. You must have proof of current CPR/AED training, and you must be affiliated with a recognized Tuolumne County First Responder Agency to be certified.

5. How do I recertify as a first responder?

You must possess a current first responder certification issued in California, and obtain at least twelve hours of continuing education from an approved EMS continuing education provider. You must complete an application and an affidavit stating that the applicant is not precluded from certification as a first responder, and submit a copy of a current State of California Driver's License, Identification Card, or Military Identification Card. You must also submit a completed skills competency verification form, EMSA-SCV (July 3).

6. When do I turn in my application for recertification?

Approximately one month prior to the expiration of your certification.

7. Can I be certified as an EMT or first responder if I have a criminal offense on my record?

Maybe. Some offenses will preclude you from certification. You may be certified at the discretion of the EMS medical director. The EMS medical director may certify you on a probationary status or place additional requirements upon you for certification.