The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is a nationally recognized organization that provides a certification process that assess the knowledge and skills required for competent practice by EMS professionals. The EMT cognitive exam is a computer adaptive test (CAT) which covers the overall capabilities of out-of-hospital emergency care at the EMT provider level.

In order to be eligible to take the exam, candidates must successfully complete an OEMS-approved EMT training program that meets or exceeds the 2009 National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards for the EMT and adhere to the 2007 National EMT Scope of Practice Model. The exam reflects on the performance of patient care through data obtained from the NREMT Practice Analysis and essential job requirements. The certification implies that the candidate has met the standard level of competency at the EMT level.

A candidate that receives certification through NREMT is then eligible to receive a State of Connecticut EMT certificate.

Initial candidates are allowed six (6) attempts in total for the cognitive exam. After three (3) attempts a refresher course is required before the fourth (4) attempt is allowed. After six (6) failures, a candidate must repeat a full training program before any additional attempts are allowed.

This measure is of the cumulative pass rate out of 6 attempts.

Partners in this measure are the National Registry of EMTs who work with OEMS to deliver the EMT initial certification exam; and the State of Connecticut EMS Instructors who provide the primary education and training programs for the EMT candidates.

Additionally, OEMS partners with the EMS sponsoring hospitals who provide medical direction in order to ensure current patient care meets or exceeds necessary high quality and safety standards.

The education and training process is well supported by national guidelines and standards that set the foundation for quality and safe patient care. Resources are available to guide the instructional process at all levels of EMS providers.Additionally, EMS providers work under the medical direction from associated sponsor hospitals. Sponsor hospital affiliation provides a basis for maintenance of current practice standards and quality assurance/improvement measures.

The OEMS continues to provide feedback to EMT education programs and supports quality improvement processes.  Frequent instructor roundtable discussions and updates are offered.