Qualified paramedics could take nursing exam without nursing school graduation

Eligible paramedics would not need to graduate from a nursing program approved by the Massachusetts nursing board to take the registered nurse licensing exam. Applicants would need at least 9,000 hours of paramedic field work for a licensed Massachusetts ambulance service, or at least 5,000 hours with the required degree. Applicants would need certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, a Massachusetts Department of Public Health EMT-Paramedic certificate, and an approved exam preparation course. The 5,000-hour route would require an associate of science, bachelor of science, or master of science degree in emergency medical services from an accredited college or university. Only field hours completed after receiving both paramedic certificates would count toward the required experience.

Paramedics would have to provide specific documents for a review of their character to receive a registered nurse license. The requirement would apply to paramedics seeking a Massachusetts registered nurse license. The documents would support the Good Moral Character evaluation, a character review under Massachusetts nursing licensing laws.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health would have to develop regulations and guidelines. The 180-day deadline for developing regulations and guidelines would run from passage of the act.