Evaluation of paramedics education in emergency health services

Paramedics play a vital role in pre-hospital emergency care, and their university education is critical to ensure professional competence. This study aimed to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of university-level education received by paramedics working in Emergency Health Services in Türkiye.

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 156 paramedics employed in 112 Emergency Health Services stations across Antalya. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers. The survey was administered either in-person or online. Participants' views on curriculum content, infrastructure, and self-perceived professional competence were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

No statistically significant association was found between self-efficacy levels and core curriculum exposure (p = 0.247), simulation training (p = 0.174), written materials (p = 0.716), practice rooms (p = 0.665), or access to a training ambulance (p = 0.449). Nevertheless, many participants emphasized the need for more comprehensive and hands-on training, particularly in emergency scenarios, highlighting a gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world readiness.

Although theoretical instruction was generally considered sufficient, practical skill development was reported as inadequate by many paramedics. These findings suggest a need to enhance university paramedic programs by expanding simulation-based education and clinical internships to better align with field demands.