For Delaware AED Program

Q: How do I apply to become a participant in the Delaware Early Defibrillation Program?

A: Fill out the application form and potential unit form which can be downloaded off this website and send them to: Office of Emergency Medical Services, DHCI, 100 Sunnyside Rd., Smyrna DE 19977.

Q: Why do I have to fill out a potential unit form?

A: This form is used to prioritize the distribution of AEDs. Its content is based on the National Public Access Defibrillation Study.

Q: What are the requirements to become a participant in the Delaware Early Defibrillation Program?

A: Basic requirements include: appoint an Agency AED Coordinator and have a trained first response team.

Q: If I purchase my own AED, can I purchase any type I want?

A: No, any AED for use in the State of Delaware must be the semi-automatic type which requires the action of an operator to deliver a shock. Fully automatic AEDs are not authorized for use in Delaware.

Q: How do I apply to receive a free AED through the Emergency Medical Services Office (OEMS)?

A: Your agency can apply by filling out the appropriate application and potential unit form and mailing them to the OEMS. Your agency's request will be prioritized according to the results of the National Public Access Defibrillation study.

Q: How long is the waiting time to receive an AED from the OEMS?

A: Depending on the information submitted on the potential unit form, an agency can expect to wait up to one to three months.

Q: How do I acquire CPR/AED training for my staff or response team and will the OEMS assist with funding for training?

A: If your staff or response team requires initial CPR/AED training, the OEMS will fund the training. The cost of recertification training, which is normally every two years, is the responsibility of the agency.

Q: What CPR/AED training curriculums are recognized by the OEMS?

A:The OEMS recognizes the following CPR/AED training curriculums:

• American Heart Association
• American Red Cross
• National Safety Council
• Emergency Care and Safety Institute.

Q: If I do qualify for an AED issued by the OEMS, who is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the unit?

A: Once an agency takes possession of an AED issued by the OEMS that agency is solely responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the unit and this includes the replacement of any consumables such as batteries and defibrillation pads.

For Delaware EMS Educational Program

Q: How do I get trained as a paramedic in Delaware?

A: The educational program for paramedics in Delaware is through the Delaware Technical and Community College Paramedic Technology Degree program. The program takes a minimum of two years to complete and the student completes the course with an Associates degree and is fully qualified for licensure as a paramedic in Delaware upon employment by a Delaware advanced life support agency.

Q: How do I get certified as a paramedic in Delaware?

A: Certification as a paramedic in Delaware is contingent upon the following:

1. Successful completion of a paramedic education program compliant with the Department of Transportation EMT-Paramedic National Standard Curriculum.
2. Complete an application for paramedic certification.
3. Current National Registry of EMT’s Paramedic registration current course completion cards in basic cardiac life support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support and Prehospital Trauma Life Support or Basic Trauma Life Support-Advanced.
4. Valid employment by a Delaware advanced life support agency.
5. Successful completion of evaluation of minimal skill competency and state protocol examination.
6. Certification of competency by agency medical director.

Q: How do I get reciprocity if I am a Paramedic from another state?

A: Same process as above.

Q: How do I get trained as an EMT in Delaware?

A: EMT-Basic training in Delaware is offered by several hospitals in the state. All programs meet state-approved guidelines for eligibility for National Registry testing. Current EMT's can also have the refresher courses from the Delaware State Fire School.

Q: How do I get certified as an EMT in Delaware?

A: All basic life support providers are certified through the Delaware Fire Prevention Commission. To be an EMT in Delaware, you must first successfully complete the Department of Transportation, EMT-Basic National Standard Curriculum and obtain EMT-Basic registration through the National Registry of EMT’s. Delaware does not require that you maintain National Registry once initial certification if obtained.

Q: How do I get reciprocity if I am an EMT from another state?

A: If not Nationally Registered, you must first obtain National Registration as an EMT-Basic. You must present proof of affiliation with a Delaware fire/rescue/EMS agency or commercial ambulance service. You must successfully complete a four-station practical offered through the Delaware State Fire School

Q: How do I get credit for continuing education in Delaware?

A: All agencies offering continuing education programs for emergency medical service providers, that want the program approved for National Registry credit, must have the program approved through the Delaware Office of EMS. Approved programs will receive a program approval number from the OEMS.

For more information, please contact the program office.

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