New CCP-C

Board For Critical Care Transport Paramedic Certification

(BCCTPC) Announces Development and the Future

Administration of a Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C)

In early February, paramedics across the US began receiving Job Task Analysis Surveys. “It is very important that we get as many paramedics as possible, who think they are performing advanced paramedicine to complete the survey,” stated Graham Pierce, BCCTCP President. “The defensibility of any credentialing examination lies in the appropriate sampling of tasks and underlying knowledge, skills and abilities required for performance by competent practitioners.”

In 2003, the BCCTPC also spearheaded the development of the Flight Paramedic Certification (FP-C) Exam, a nationally recognized, validated credentialing examination for flight paramedics.

After the advent of the FP-C credentialing exam, state EMS offices, allied health education programs and EMS institutes across the country have looked to the BCCTPC to develop a similar exam for critical care ground. There are many states where paramedics are working beyond the DOT curriculum in a critical care environment, but there is no standardization or certification exam available. Our industry has long recognized the need for a national standard in the development of curriculum and testing for critical care paramedics.

Credentialing exams, like the FP-C, and in nursing like the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) and Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN), are not intended to provide paramedic licensure (which is relegated to the States), but are intended to accurately test knowledge and critical thinking skills for paramedics practicing in an extended role. By doing so, they establish a benchmark for employers and the end-user.

The BCCTPC teamed with Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc., leading experts in conducting job analysis studies and test development. They plan to deliver the first Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C) Exam by October 2009. The Exam will be offered in a written, paper/pencil format and computer-based format. Although an active state or national paramedic licensure is the only technical requirement, to sit for the Exam, it is recommended that candidates have three to five years of experience practicing in a busy Critical Care/ALS system. Candidates successfully passing the CCP-C Exam will receive a four year credential which can be renewed through continuing education or retesting.

The BCCTPC board was formed to develop and oversee certification exams for the Critical Care Paramedic. With over 1,000 Certified Flight Paramedics across the US and Europe, the FPC Exam is now well established and is currently required by

many air medical providers. The FP-C Exam is also strongly recommended by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS).

The BCCTPC plans to have the first exam ready for the providers this fall. For questions regarding the Critical Care Job Analysis Survey or to request a survey, please contact the BCCTPC office at 770-978-4400.