Spencer Hospital Offers Paramedic Training to EMTs

posted on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 in General

Rural Iowa is experiencing a shortage in trained medical emergency personnel. In response, Spencer Hospital has created a program which would help someone trained as an EMT (emergency medical technician), who joins the hospital’s emergency and ambulance department, become certified as a paramedic.

“Our goal is to make it easier for those who have the aptitude and desire to be an EMS professional to get the training they need,” explained Laura Manwarren, Spencer Hospital emergency department and ambulance services director. “In addition to providing easy access to that training, Spencer Hospital will also fully reimburse tuition costs to those who successfully complete the program and meet employment obligations at Spencer Hospital.”

EMTs hired by Spencer Hospital who wish to advance to paramedic level can receive their training right on site at Spencer Hospital and earn a degree through Western Iowa Tech. Also, students in the EMT to paramedic program will be instructed by Spencer Hospital educator Jeff Messerole who was Iowa’s EMS Educator of the Year.

“Jeff is a skilled educator and an experienced paramedic himself so students will be learning from one of the very best,” Manwarren said. “This program is designed for EMTs employed by Spencer Hospital to receive this training for free.”

In addition to providing education, Spencer Hospital’s ambulance services also offers flexible scheduling, including a popular combination schedule of 12 and 24 hour shifts, which is especially appealing to those who have another occupation, such as farming.

“We’re seeking energetic medical emergency personnel who desire a professional work environment which offers flexible scheduling and an opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment,” Manwarren said. In addition to the numerous benefits available to hospital staff members, during this special recruitment period, hiring incentives up to $10,000 are also being offered to successful candidates. Spencer Hospital employees who refer successful candidates may also be eligible for recruitment bonuses.

“We encourage anyone who has an interest in being part of a team committed to making a difference in our community to consider joining our emergency and ambulance services,” Manwarren said. For more information, contact Spencer Hospital human resources department at (712) 264-8451 or apply online.