Background on the New EMR program
At the 2024 annual general meeting for the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics (SCoP), a resolution was put forward to increase the length of the emergency medical responder (EMR) program. A scan of the program requirements from the provinces that licence EMRs reveals that most programs now require 240-312 hours and include a minimum of 12 hours in a clinical or practicum rotation. Additional factors that were reviewed for their potential impact on EMR programming included the adoption of COPR’s Canadian Paramedic Competency Framework (CPCF). As this framework will become the foundation for the COPR licensing exam by fall 2026, all EMR programs will need to align to the CPCF by fall 2026. CPCF will increase the core knowledge of the EMR. These newly developed EMR program requirements provide the minimum expectation for all EMR programs in Saskatchewan. It describes admission requirements, instructor/faculty expectations, program curriculum (includes didactic and simulation, clinical, and evaluation), and program quality assurance. Programs will be encouraged to exceed the minimum requirements as necessary to ensure their programming meets the needs of the learners, employers and patients.
Organizations will have until July 1, 2026 to implement these requirements. All EMR programs in Saskatchewan will need to be approved to these standards to continue providing the EMR program. All approved programs will be listed on the SCoP website.
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements Students must be 18 years of age before entering an Emergency Medical Responder program. o Applicants younger than 18 years of age could be considered if they meet all other criteria. These learners should contact the College prior to enrolling in the program. The program may need to include additional supports for students under 18 years of age. Grade 12 or equivalent Criminal Record Check , Current within 12 months, upon admission to the program. At the discretion of the practicum/clinical agency, a student may be declined access to a practicum/ clinical based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check (CRC). CRCs received that are positive are subject to review and consultation with the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics regarding suitability for registration. Standard First Aid and CPR "C" AED or equivalent, required prior to the start of the program and must be current. The program will ensure all EMR students shall meet any expectations or requirements set by the clinical/practicum agency(ies) that may not be mentioned here.
More Information will be made available shortly
Current EMR Bridge course to new 2026 Scope of Practice
For all current licensed EMR's, an EMR Bridge Course has been designed to meet the updated Scope of Practice requirements established by the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics. All registered EMR's must complete approved training to practice within the expanded scope. Be aware that this Bridge Course requires an in person skills session when you are looking for available courses in Saskatchewan. We are offering a one day (8 hour) in class upgrade course for $345.00 plus tax. You will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course.
The Bridge course contents
Objectives Approved training for EMRs in the new changes to the scope of practice must, at a minimum, address the following objectives. Members are responsible for ensuring they have taken the initial training and are competent before they are permitted to perform any new skill. Assessment The assessments should reflect the following critical factors inherent in the demonstration of skills, knowledge, and abilities:
Consistency (the ability to repeat practice techniques and outcomes)
Independence (the ability to practice without assistance from others)
Timeliness (the ability to practice in a time frame that enhances patient safety)
Accuracy (the ability to practice utilizing correct techniques and to achieve intended outcomes)
Appropriateness (the ability to practice in accordance with Saskatchewan protocols and Standards of Practice)
Topics
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3-Lead ECG monitoring
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Nasopharyngeal airway review
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Hemostatic dressings and prioritized hemorrhage control
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Fracture reduction principles
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Monitoring IV crystalloid infusions (no additives)
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Ostomy, nasogastric tube and urinary catheter monitoring
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EMR medication administration updates
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Documentation and error reporting requirements
