New Hire Training
All New Orleans EMS Recruits will attend a 6 months long academy where they will obtain EMR and then EMT certification before moving on to field training. This new recruit academy is a joint partnership between NOEMS, the Office of Workforce Development, EMS Corps, and the New Orleans Career Center.
All lateral employees begin their employment with an intensive, 3 weeks long academy. In the academy, employees are exposed to all divisions within our department, including field operations, special operations, logistics, and communications. Classroom portion of academy includes both didactic and scenario-based learning. Though brief, this setting has proven itself to be an immersive experience that better prepares new employees for the requirements of a high performing EMS agency.
Communications
Early in their tenure, every employee spends a shift working alongside our sister agency OPCD. During this shift, employees participate in reception of 911 calls, and the dispatching of resources to said calls. It gives each provider the unique perspective of what life is like on “the other side of the radio”, and it familiarizes field employees with the demand placed on our call takers and dispatchers.
Operations
Employees are introduced to field leadership, and they are briefed on the expectations of new and longstanding employees. Several policies are explained, and through scenario-based training, they are exposed to the application of these policies.
Special Operations and Logistics
Employees learn the layout of our ambulances on their second day of employment, and they receive defensive driving training by the end of their first week. This allows for several opportunities to drive around the city during their training before they are expected to perform this task in the field. They are also introduced to, and taught to operate, our special response vehicles. This is crucial knowledge, as these vehicles are used to navigate crowded streets in a popular tourist destination. Employees are taught to implement our inventory and narcotic software, and they are expected to maintain simulation equipment throughout their classroom time.
Education-Classroom
Employees are certified in PALS, PHTLS, AMLS, and DT4EMS before ever setting foot in the field. Employees leave the classroom with a significantly expanded theoretical knowledge base, and they are better prepared to manage the high volume of high acuity patients that they will encounter. Image Trend Elite, our PCR software, is introduced during this period. Each scenario is documented, in real time, and verified for accuracy. The tedious task of learning a new documentation software is covered during orientation, lowering stress level in the field.
Upon completion of this academy, each employee is assigned to a Field Training Officer to begin their field career. The field training process is generally completed within 3 months of hire, clearing paramedics, advanced EMTs, and EMTs to function independently. A mentorship period is implemented for new paramedics and AEMTs in their field training process. This allows our advanced providers to gain comfort in our system before continuing their clearance program.
Continued Education
Paid Continued Education: At NOEMS, we recognize the significance of maintaining current certifications. We offer comprehensive paid continued education opportunities, including courses in BLS, ACLS, AMLS, PHTLS, EPC/PALS, and all other required NOEMS classes. Your professional growth is important to us, and we are committed to supporting your ongoing education and development.
Career advancement
At NOEMS, we provide robust career advancement opportunities for our medical professionals. Our specialized tactical medical operator's course is expertly tailored for SWAT medics, equipping you with the essential skills to excel in high-stress situations. And, as part of our ongoing commitment to your success, we are proud to offer in-house Advanced EMT training at absolutely no cost to you. We recognize that continuing education is essential for keeping up with the ever-evolving field of emergency medical services. Our comprehensive training program is designed to equip you with the latest skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role as an AEMT. We believe that by investing in your continued education, we not only enhance your capabilities but also elevate the quality of care we provide to our community.
New Technology
We are at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge technology into our medical training and practices. Our state-of-the-art ultrasound training equips paramedics with advanced diagnostic capabilities, enabling them to provide more accurate and efficient patient care. Our new AV system enhances the learning experience, allowing us to host remote classes and provide accessible education opportunities. In our training facilities, you'll have the opportunity to work with mid-fidelity mannequins and Laerdal monitor simulators, which replicate real-life scenarios, ensuring hands-on, practical experience. Our commitment to staying up to date is further exemplified by our recent investment in brand new training equipment in 2023.
Teaching
We take immense pride in fostering a culture of growth and offer unique opportunities for medics to teach combat life saver courses locally and for federal agencies. Within our organization, our robust mentorship program, led by dedicated preceptors and Field Training Officers (FTOs), provides valuable chances for you to guide others on their medical journeys. Whether you work closely with students or assist fellow employees, embracing these roles as educators allows you to make a lasting impact while enhancing your own skills and contributing to the growth of future medical professionals.