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EMTs and paramedics work both indoors and out, and in all types of weather. In general, there's a high risk for contracting illnesses or experiencing work-related injuries. In addition, EMTs and paramedics may be exposed to communicable diseases, such as hepatitis-B and AIDS, as well as to violence from mentally unstable or combative patients. The work is not only physically strenuous but can be stressful, nvolving life-or-death situations. Many EMTs and paramedics are required to work more than 40 hours a week, and because emergency services function 24 hours a day, EMTs and paramedics may have highly irregular working hours.

The job prospects for paramedics and emergency medical technicians are good, particularly in larger cities. EMTs and paramedics who have advanced education and certification enjoy the best job prospects. Growth in employment opportunities for paramedics is largely due to increased call volumes of medical emergencies. In addition, the time that EMTs and paramedics spend with each patient is increasing. As a result, when an ambulance arrives, it takes longer to transfer the patient from the care of paramedics to the staff of the hospital's emergency room. Some EMTs and paramedics become instructors, dispatchers, or physician assistants.