Glacier Country News

The University of Montana's Paramedicine Program at Missoula College has received national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), enhancing its commitment to excellence in paramedic education. For five years, the program has partnered with Missoula Emergency Services Inc., producing graduates who frequently join ambulance and fire services statewide.

David McEvoy, the program's director, stated, “We see our students graduate and they are immediately providing care to our community.” Program accreditation was delayed due to pandemic-related backlogs but was confirmed following a site visit that received high marks from evaluators. “It is a confirmation of our commitment to having an excellent program,” affirmed McEvoy.

The recognition makes UM's initiative the third accredited paramedic program in Montana, an achievement underscored by Jack Pickhardt, a firefighter and paramedic from the City of Missoula Fire Department. Pickhardt, an alumnus and advisory board member, praised the program's quality, particularly its clinical training.

Students are offered diverse hands-on experiences in various medical settings, preparing them well for the field. “It builds a well-rounded experience that you come out of school with,” Pickhardt commented.

Graduates of the program have shown a 100% passing rate on their paramedic exams, with some securing employment before completing their studies. The program supports further professional development, offering pathways to bachelor's degrees and future integration with the soon-to-launch Physician Associate program at UM.

McEvoy, with three decades of experience as a paramedic, stresses the crucial nature of the role as first responders in emergencies. “We take that responsibility very seriously and so do our students,” he noted.