SHARON, Pa. – Sharon Regional Health System on Tuesday announced a new partnership to train local paramedics through an agreement with the Penn State Fayette Center for Community and Public Safety’s Paramedic Program.
EMS practitioners pursuing paramedic certification will be able to complete the program’s required clinical field experience within Sharon Regional’s accredited hospital system. Trainees will receive hands-on experience in the emergency department, intensive care units and specialty service lines.
“This new partnership with Penn State Fayette directly supports Sharon Regional’s renewed mission and commitment to providing the highest quality care to the communities we serve,” said Todd Tamalunas, interim CEO for Sharon Regional Health System. “Offering pathways for higher-level certification ensures that prehospital responders are equipped with the enhanced skills, advanced assessment capabilities and evidence-based practices needed to deliver rapid, expert emergency care in critical situations.”
The Penn State Fayette paramedic program is designed to enhance the clinical skills of EMS personnel, preparing them to handle complex emergencies. Training includes advanced airway management, cardiac interventions, trauma care and medication administration.
“We are pleased to work with Sharon Regional to expand advanced training programs for emergency medical professionals across our region,” said Greg Onega, coordinator of Penn State Fayette’s Center for Community and Public Safety. “This initiative is the first program in Pennsylvania to formally incorporate American Heart Association best practices along with NAEMT curriculum into paramedic clinical education, establishing a new standard for consistency and excellence in emergency medical training statewide.”
The program provides career advancement for EMS professionals in Mercer County and the surrounding areas and is led by Charles Allias, program director.In January, Sharon Regional announced a partnership with Independence Health Systems to expand advanced heart and cardiovascular care services at the hospital.