Extended Care Paramedicine

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive and innovative qualification designed for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their skills in emergency and community-based patient care. This program aims to prepare paramedics and related health practitioners to operate effectively across a broad spectrum of clinical settings, emphasizing both the critical skills needed in emergency response and the holistic approach required for extended patient management. Through a combination of rigorous theoretical coursework and practical hands-on training, students will develop advanced knowledge in paramedicine, including advanced life support, patient assessment, and management of complex clinical situations. The curriculum highlights the importance of community engagement, health promotion, and multidisciplinary collaboration, equipping graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in diverse environments, from urban to rural settings. The program also emphasizes the development of leadership skills and decision-making abilities essential for working autonomously or within multidisciplinary teams. It incorporates current best practices, evidence-based approaches, and emerging trends in healthcare, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of communities and healthcare systems. Students will have access to state-of-the-art simulation facilities and clinical placements that provide real-world experience, fostering confidence and competence. The program is tailored for registered paramedics aiming to specialize further, as well as other health practitioners interested in extended paramedical roles. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to work in extended care roles, including community paramedicine, primary health care, and specialized emergency services, making a significant impact on patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University stands out for its commitment to excellence in education, clinical innovation, and its focus on creating adaptable, skilled professionals ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare environments.

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and specialized skills required to operate efficiently in a range of healthcare settings beyond traditional emergency response. Building upon foundational paramedicine training, this program emphasizes the development of comprehensive assessment, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making skills necessary for providing high-quality care in diverse environments. Throughout the course, students engage with a curriculum that covers essential topics such as advanced clinical assessment techniques, healthcare communication, community paramedicine, and mental health considerations. Emphasis is placed on developing competencies for managing complex cases, chronic disease management, and working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. The program incorporates practical placements that allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering confidence and professional competence. Graduates of the Extended Care Paramedicine program are well-prepared to assume roles that require advanced paramedical skills, including community-based care, primary health settings, and specialized emergency response teams. The curriculum is designed to meet national healthcare standards and prepares students for ongoing professional development and certification in advanced paramedic practices. With a focus on innovation and community-focused healthcare, the program aims to produce graduates who are adaptable, compassionate, and capable of making a meaningful difference in patient outcomes. Whether students aspire to work in urban or rural settings, this program provides a comprehensive education that opens doors to advanced career opportunities in the evolving field of paramedicine.

University admission requirements apply. All applicants are required to have a Bachelor's degree in Paramedicine, or have completed a Graduate Certificate of Extended Care Paramedicine, with equivalents considered. Alternately applicants can get equivalent prior learning including at least five years appropriate professional experience.

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University offers students various options to finance their studies. Domestic students can access the Australian Government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which includes options such as the HECS-HELP loan, allowing eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront or through an approved international student payment plan set by the university. ECU also provides scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students, which can significantly offset the cost of tuition and associated expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, equity considerations, and other merit-based criteria. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as private scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered by external organizations or government agencies.

In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for living expenses, textbooks, equipment, and other educational materials. ECU provides a range of financial support services, including guidance on budgeting, financial planning, and part-time employment opportunities, which can help students manage their finances effectively during their studies. The university also offers flexible payment plans to help students manage their fees incrementally throughout the semester. Furthermore, students may consider part-time work options available in the local area or on-campus employment to supplement their income while studying. It’s important for prospective students to review the specific financial requirements and support options available for the Extended Care Paramedicine program directly through ECU’s official website or contact their student financial services for personalized advice.

The Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University is designed to prepare students for advanced roles within the healthcare system, particularly in pre-hospital and community settings. The program builds upon foundational paramedicine skills, providing students with additional training in areas such as extended assessment, management of complex medical and trauma cases, and advanced clinical decision-making. The curriculum emphasizes practical, real-world experience through clinical placements, simulations, and community-based projects, enabling students to develop confidence and competence in handling diverse emergency situations. Graduates from this program are expected to be equipped with the expertise necessary for roles such as extended care paramedics, reducing the burden on hospitals by managing patients in the community, and working in a variety of settings including rural and remote areas. The program aims to align with contemporary healthcare needs, emphasizing clinical reasoning, autonomous practice, and interprofessional collaboration. Entry requirements typically include a relevant undergraduate qualification in paramedicine or a closely related health field, along with relevant work experience or registration as a paramedic. The program is delivered through a combination of online learning, face-to-face workshops, and supervised clinical placements, offering flexibility for working professionals. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as extended care paramedics, enabling them to practice at an advanced level. The program is accredited and designed to meet the standards set by relevant health and ambulance authorities, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute effectively to emergency health services, community health initiatives, and hospital systems. Overall, the Extended Care Paramedicine program at Edith Cowan University aims to produce highly skilled healthcare professionals capable of delivering comprehensive pre-hospital care and improving patient outcomes in diverse environments.