Paramedic Shortage Sparks New Certificate Program In Palm Desert

PALM DESERT, CA — Students who wish to earn a paramedic certificate have a new path to follow, thanks to College of the Desert.

The school launched a paramedic certificate program and was open to accepting applications on Wednesday. A total of 30 students will be selected for the first class, and applications are open for current and recently graduated EMT students through Jan. 5, they said.

"It is our goal, at College of the Desert, to provide programs that benefit students and the broader community," Public Safety Academy director Walt Meyer said in a recent statement. "This program caters to the needs of our neighbors and allows students to enter a position that is in high demand."

An internal assessment and recommendation suggested a "shortage of paramedic candidates" in the area, causing many organizations to de-restrict staffing requirements to fill roles. Combined factors contributed to these shortcomings, such as an increasingly aging population and paramedic training facilities shutting down during the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the statement, the analysis determined that jobs in the field would increase by 8% through 2027.

The EMS Paramedic Academy will launch during the spring semester, according to a statement from the institution.

For more information, visit www.collegeofthedesert.edu.