Emergency Medical Personnel
Information you need to know to work as an Emergency Medical Responder
Who is the licensing body responsible for Paramedics in Alberta?
In Alberta, only registered members of the Alberta College of Paramedics (ACP) may call themselves Emergency Medical Responders (EMR), Primary Care Paramedic (PCP), (formerly Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), or Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) (formerly Emergency Medical Technologist – Paramedics EMT-P).
What are the licensure requirements for internationally educated Paramedics?
In order to apply to the Alberta College of Paramedics, internationally educated paramedics need to:
- Complete and submit the International Qualification Assessment System (IQAS) Equivalency Application report
- Detailed resume and cover letter
- Complete and pass the Interview Process (conducted in English) Note: This interview is NOT for a job. The purpose is to understand the applicant’s experience
- Complete and pass the practical and written Jurisprudence Exam
- Ensure that your English language skills meet or exceed the ACP’s minimum requirements
- If required, pass the Provincial Exam
For complete and up-to-date information on the requirements for internationally educated paramedics, visit the Substantial Equivalency page on the Alberta College of Paramedics website.
What are the educational requirements for Paramedics in Alberta?
Note: Regulatory bodies compare international education and experience to Canadian standards.
EMR, PCP, and APC training programs are offered by public colleges, and private schools. A current list of approved programs is posted on the Alberta College of Paramedics website.
What are the accepted English language proficiency tests and where can I be tested?
Applicants must successfully achieve the required passing score on the ACP-approved English Language Tests. ACP uses the TOEFL test. To learn more about where to take an English language proficiency test in Alberta, visit English Language Proficiency Tests and Locations.
What supports are available to support internationally educated Paramedics to integrate into the Canadian labour force?
Directions for Immigrants offers workplace communication groups to help you integrate into the Canadian work environment. The Clear Communication for Health Professionals (CCHP) workplace communication group is designed to help internationally educated health care professionals fine-tune their communication skills with patients, supervisors, and colleagues. In one week, you will learn through role-play and scenarios the nuances and expectations of Canadian patients, inter-disciplinary teams, and other health care industry participants. Topics include overcoming communication barriers, professional workplace interaction/behaviour, Canadian workplace culture, conflict resolution, and teamwork. Visit Clear Communication for Health Professionals for more information.
What information resources are available for Paramedics in Alberta?
Additional Occupational Information
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