Paramedic Training

“The Foundation guarantees that every individual is trained to the highest level possible. It allows us to ask more of our paramedics than any other program.”

Michael K. Copass, MD

Among the Most Highly Skilled Paramedics in the World

The Michael K. Copass Paramedic Training Program is a collaboration between the University of Washington Harborview Medical Center, the Medic One Foundation, Seattle Fire Department, and emergency services providers throughout the Puget Sound region. The program includes over 2,000 hours of classroom instruction, hands-on simulation-based practice, and extensive field-based training, all under the direct supervision of physicians and experienced paramedics. As a result of this intensive training program, regional Medic One paramedics achieve a survival rate for sudden cardiac arrest that is 2-3 times greater than most major cities nationwide.

Charitable gifts are the primary source of support for this world-renowned paramedic training program. Your support ensures that our region’s paramedics—among the most highly trained in the world—receive an exceptional education that far exceeds national standards.

Please support the Paramedic Training Program to ensure that the 30 students in incoming Class 51 receive the finest education and training possible. Your support will help save lives—thank you!

Thirty students representing nine emergency services providers in our region are enrolled in the Medic One Paramedic Training Program this fall. This is our largest class ever! Their 10-month long training will begin began on September 9th and will extend through June. During that time, they will undergo 2,100 hours of rigorous training, including classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and extensive field experience on Medic One paramedic units. Welcome, Class 51!

During the next 10-months, Class 51 students will:

• Received over 2,100 hours of instruction and training, nearly double the national recommendation. The majority of lectures will be taught by University of Washington faculty physicians.
• Acquire very extensive training in the field under the direct supervision of experienced paramedics. Class 50 will have a combined total of over 15,000 or an average of 530 patient contacts per student—three times the national average.
• Perform a combined total of more than 6,000 IVs and 1,000 intubations, two of the many difficult skills they successfully mastered. 
• Participate in the treatment for over 300 cardiac arrest victims.

Explore Our Strategic Vision for Paramedic Training

We are excited to share the 2024-2029 Paramedic Training Strategic Plan, outlining our goals to enhance program excellence, expand our impact, and scale with the growing demand for skilled paramedics. Learn more about our strategic plan and how it shapes the future of paramedic education.

Foundation Funding Trains Medic One Paramedics Throughout Our Region

Learn More About the Paramedic Training Program

For more information on the Medic One Paramedic Training Program, please visit their website at uwpmt.org.