STARS Critical Care Paramedic Program

Overview
STARS is pleased to collaborate with the University of Calgary's Continuing Medical Education Department to offer the STARS Critical Care Paramedic Program. This comprehensive 15-week program is designed to foster growth and enhance the knowledge and skills of professionals involved in caring for critically ill and injured patients. The course is ideal for rural and urban paramedics seeking to advance their critical care transport medicine expertise. Upon successful completion of the course, participants can apply to the Alberta College of Paramedics to use the Critical Care Paramedic Paramedic title.


Course Structure

• Blended Learning Model:
  • 11-Week Online Component: This demanding segment provides an intensive, asynchronous, comprehensive exploration of critical care transport medicine fundamentals. It requires a strong commitment and rigorous engagement to gain the necessary foundations for the on-site experience. The course is designed to be immersive and thorough, ensuring that those completing it have an enhanced understanding of critical care transport medicine.
  • 4-Week In-Person Training: The in-person time offers an immersive experience featuring large-group work led by clinical specialists. Throughout the program, participants will delve into both technical and, perhaps more crucially, non-technical skills vital for managing the most critically ill patients. The cohort will engage in rigorous discussions, collaborative exercises, and simulated clinical scenarios, challenging one another's assumptions and honing strategies for navigating uncertainty. Feedback from dedicated faculty will guide and enhance their learning journey, ensuring that each participant emerges with a robust, well-rounded skill set that will lay a solid foundation for continued growth.   
  • Flight Practicums (12 Shifts): In this phase, participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience at one of the STARS bases. This practical component allows the application of knowledge and skills within a real-world rotary wing transport environment, bridging the gap between theory and practice with precision and confidence.
  • Cost: $15,000
  • Face-to-Face Days in Calgary:

• Currently licensed and practicing Advanced Care Paramedic in Alberta.
• Preference will be given to candidates with at least three years of experience as an Advanced Care Paramedic.
• Demonstrates strong working knowledge and clinical application of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and trauma management principles (ITLS, TNCC, or ATLS). 
• Must be able to meet the physical demands as outlined for our Air Medical Crew.

• Commitment to Continuous Learning: Professionals who exhibit a strong dedication to ongoing education and self-improvement.
• Growth Mindset and Curiosity: Individuals with a profound curiosity and enthusiasm for critical care transport medicine.
• Community Contribution: Candidates eager to actively engage with the academy cohort and contribute to advancing medical education within their communities after completing the program.
• Mentorship: Preference will be given to individuals who demonstrate the ability and willingness to serve as mentors and contribute to the development of future program cohorts.

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