NREMT Releases Statement on COVID-19

The following is a statement issued by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians regarding EMS certification during the COVID-19 pandemic:

The safety, security and good health of our candidates, registrants, staff, subject matter experts (SMEs) and partners are of the highest priority for the National Registry of EMTs. Considering the evolving COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation, I wanted to personally update you, to ensure you’re informed on our response.

Registrants & Recertification

The two-year recertification season for EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics scheduled to expire in 2020 remains March 31, 2020. The vast majority of the registrants due to expire on March 31 have already completed the required educational components. However, registrants who have not yet completed the recertification requirements, are reminded that (F5) Virtual Instructor Lead Training (VILT) courses satisfy the requirements for instructor-led training and can be accomplished outside of classroom environments. Registrants who are unable to complete the educational requirements due to quarantine or impacts of the public health emergency are encouraged to coordinate with their State Office of EMS and contact Support@nremt.org prior to their expiration date.   

Candidates

Psychomotor Examinations – The National Registry psychomotor examinations for AEMT and Paramedic will continue to be administered, subject to the guidance of local health authorities. The decision to cancel an examination lies with the Examination Coordinator and the National Registry Representative in coordination with the National Registry examinations team. The decision to cancel an examination will be made as soon as is practical and candidates will be notified as soon as possible. Candidates should contact the Examination Coordinator for questions and to reschedule an examination if necessary.

Cognitive Examinations – Pearson VUE is closely monitoring local conditions and following the guidance of local health authorities. Decisions will be made by each individual test center. The latest information can be found at the Pearson VUE website.

Course Completion Requirements – Some colleges and universities are suspending in-person courses and activities. This may impact learning labs, practicums, and clinical experiences. Candidates who are unable to complete the educational requirements due to the public health emergency are encouraged to coordinate with their Program Director. Program directors are encouraged to coordinate with their State Office of EMS for any needed modifications to training schedules. Paramedic programs directors are also encouraged to review the CoAEMSP website for additional information.

Examination Eligibility Deadlines - Applicants who are unable to complete the testing requirements within required National Registry two year deadline due to quarantine or impacts of the public health emergency are encouraged to coordinate with their State Office of EMS and contact Support@nremt.org prior to their expiration date.  

National Registry Travel
The National Registry is restricting all routine travel for conferences, meetings, and events until April 12, 2020. Tele-conferencing technology will be leveraged to reduce impacts.

Additional Resources

• CDC guidance, situation updates, and information about COVID-19: https://coronavirus.gov/

• CoAEMSP Statement on COVID-19 and Paramedic Education Programs:https://coaemsp.org/

• NHTSA Office of EMS webinar on COVID-19: https://youtu.be/ZrnbufgDqjo

We are monitoring this developing situation closely and are staying in regular contact with our national EMS system partners. We will publish updates as this situation evolves. Thank you for the vital role you fill in the nation’s Emergency Medical Services system.

Respectfully, 

Bill Seifarth
Executive Director