Basic and Additional Training for Paramedics

Basic and Additional Training for Paramedics

Basic Training

Paramedics who start working for the DRF Luftrettung are trained HCM (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Crew Member). With this additional qualification they are able to support the pilot with navigation and airspace observation. The basic training comprises one week of theory and one week of practical exercises in the helicopter. During the theoretical part questions of aviation legislation, meteorology, navigation and helicopter techniques  are discussed. The practical session  preferably takes place at the station where the paramedic will work. There he will be acquainted with the work in a  rescue helicopter and, in particular,  with security instructions. 

QUESTION
With the law "Gesetz über den Beruf der Rettungsassistentin und des Rettungsassistenten" (Law on the profession of paramedics) for the first time a legal basis for the profession was created in 1989. Before there only had been ambulance men with the status of unskilled workers.  

Regular Re-training

All paramedics employed by the DRF Luftrettung, be it in emergency helicopters or in ambulance aircrafts, are obliged to participate in mandatory re-training sessions once a year although  many paramedics that are not employed also benefit  from the offer of the DRF Luftrettung. The courses comprise training sessions on different topics, some specifically related to air rescue. Topics included in the training courses are, for example, information on current developments in medicine, hygiene and questions of education policy. Included in the sessions is the mandatory HCM re-training that has to be attended once a year. Another issue treated is Crew Resource Management where the participants train their cooperation and communication team skills in practical exercises.