Advanced Care Technicians (also known as Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians) are EMTs with more advanced emergency medical care training and higher responsibility during a crisis. Becoming an ACT/AEMT allows you to gain higher pay and provide higher levels of care to your patients. People who serve in this role are strong, passionate, and caring.
Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians
Provide a Broad Scope of
life-saving care
Advanced Care Technicians (ACTS)
In West Virginia, Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians are called Advanced Care Technicians.
The Job
- ACTs have a broader scope of practice than EMTs but are more limited than a paramedic.
- They can administer fluids and some medications, as well as use some advanced medical equipment in the ambulance.
You’ll do things like:
- Place IVs and administer fluids
- Administer some medications to save a life
- All the typical responsibilities of an EMT.
ACT training
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a current EMT license
- Complete a 350-hour course
- Pass National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician exam or State Initial Exam
- Written EMR Cognitive Exam
- Topics include airway, respiration, ventilation, cardiology, resuscitation, trauma, medical, OBGYN, and EMS operations
- Written EMR Cognitive Exam
- Pass the ACT psychomotor exam administered by WV OEMS
- Must demonstrate proficiency in patient assessment, ventilatory management, cardiac arrest/AED, IV and medication skills, and pediatric intraosseous infusion
- Pass background check
- Current CPR card
Who employs ACTs?
- Private and public ambulance services
- Fire departments
- Hospitals
- Police departments
ACT/AEMT training programs
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
Other programs as approved or conducted by WV OEMS.
Affordable training
There is a minimal cost for ACT training and assistance may be available.