AUGUST 24, 2020

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the National Registry recognizes the unique needs and concerns of EMS professionals. One of those concerns is the uncertainty and limited availability of classroom education.

On Monday, August 17, 2020, The National Registry's Board of Directors responded by announcing the decision to waive the Distributive Education (DE) limits in the NCCP Model for the 2021 recertification season to ensure EMS professionals could maintain their national certification while assuring continued competency.

“The National Registry and our Board of Directors carefully and thoughtfully made this decision,” said Bill Seifarth, executive director of the National Registry. “We sought input and feedback from a wide array of stakeholders and our liaison organizations.”

Distributive Education limits removed for the recertification cycle ending March 31, 2021 (EMT, AEMT, Paramedic) and September 30, 2021 (EMR)

EMTs, AEMTs and Paramedics who are due to recertify on March 31, 2021 will have no limits on Distributive Education. This allows all continuing education to be accomplished online through any state-accepted or CAPCE-accredited program or education site. Of course, in-person continuing education will also be accepted. The same will apply to EMRs due to recertify on September 30, 2021.