Background: Internationally, continuing professional competence (CPC) is an increasingly important issue for all
health professionals. With the introduction of the first CPC framework for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
and the imminent introduction of CPC for Paramedics and Advanced Paramedics (APs) in Ireland, this study aimed
to identify attitudes towards CPC and factors that might influence such a framework.
Methods: All EMTs (n = 925), Paramedics and APs (n = 1816) registered in Ireland were invited by email to complete
an anonymous on-line survey. The study instrument was designed based on continuous professional development
(CPD) questionnaires used by other healthcare professions. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed.
Results: The overall response rates were: EMTs 43 % (n = 399), Paramedics and APs 43 % (n = 789), with 82 % of
APs and 38 % of Paramedics participating. The majority of participants in all groups agreed that registration
was of personal importance and that evidence of CPC should be maintained; 39 % of Paramedics/APs
and 78 % of EMTs believed that persistent failure to meet CPC requirements should mandate denial of
registration. From a pre-determined list of activities, in excess of 88 % of all respondents indicated practical training
scenarios, cardiac re-certification, e-learning supplemented by related practice, and training with simulation manikins
were most relevant to these roles. However, least relevant to them were: e-learning alone (Paramedic/AP 36 %; EMT
35 %); project work (Paramedic/AP 27 %; EMT 48 %); and appraisal of journal articles (Paramedic/AP 24 %; EMT 39 %).
Conclusion: Irish EMTs, Paramedics and Advanced Paramedics were supportive of CPC and favoured a ‘mixed’ model
approach which includes: blended learning, practical skills, simulation, practical/team-based exercises, e-learning
combined with practical skills, and evidence of patient contact. It is hoped that these insights will inform the CPC
guidelines to be introduced.
History
Publication
BMC Health Services Research;15:532
Publisher
BioMed Central
Note
peer-reviewed
Language
English
Also affiliated with
4i - Centre for Interventions in Infection, Inflammation & Immunity