The landscape of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is continuously evolving, with Critical Care Transport emerging as a vital specialization. Advances in medical treatments and the increasing specialization of advanced healthcare facilities have created a significant demand for highly skilled paramedics capable of delivering sophisticated care to patients facing critical illnesses and injuries during transport. In this dynamic environment, foundational paramedic training is no longer sufficient to meet the complex needs of these patients.
The University Of Florida Care Program, specifically its Critical Care Paramedic certificate program, is designed to address this growing need. This program offers unparalleled, high-level education in all facets of critical care transport. Our faculty comprises seasoned clinicians, esteemed physicians, and distinguished professors, all recognized as experts in their respective fields. What sets the University of Florida Care Program apart is its unique educational approach, seamlessly integrating rigorous classroom instruction with practical, hands-on laboratory sessions and invaluable clinical rotations.
For paramedics aspiring to join elite Critical Care and Flight Programs, advanced training is not just beneficial—it’s often a prerequisite. Top-tier programs often mandate Critical Care Certification as a fundamental qualification for applicants. The University of Florida Care Program’s CCP program is meticulously structured to not only meet but exceed the minimum training standards for critical care paramedics, preparing graduates to excel in the most demanding environments.
Essential Course Prerequisites
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To enroll in the University of Florida Care Program’s CCP program, candidates must hold a current and valid paramedic certification. We accept certifications from any state or the National Registry. International applicants should possess equivalent paramedic training from their certifying country; however, additional documentation may be necessary to confirm equivalency. A crucial prerequisite is that applicants must have at least one year of experience post their initial paramedic training. This experience ensures a foundational understanding of pre-hospital care, upon which the advanced critical care concepts are built within the program.
While not mandatory, the following certifications are highly recommended to enhance your preparedness and success in the University of Florida Care Program:
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification demonstrates proficiency in managing cardiac emergencies.
- Current Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification* is crucial for paramedics who may care for critically ill children, highlighting skills in pediatric emergency care.
- Current Trauma Certification (ITLS and/or PHTLS)* showcases expertise in trauma management, a critical component of pre-hospital critical care.
The University of Florida Care Program offers the live stream course format twice annually, during the Spring and Fall semesters, ensuring flexibility for working professionals. For any inquiries or further information about the program and application process, please reach out to us via email at [email protected] or by phone at 352-273-1170. Upon successful registration for the course, you will receive a comprehensive course information packet detailing schedules, materials, and preparatory steps.
Upcoming Course Schedule
Fall 2025 Critical Care Paramedic Program within the University of Florida Care Program
- Class Start Date: August 21, 2025
- On-Campus Intensive Dates:
- Skill/Cadaver Labs: To Be Determined (TBD) – These hands-on labs are a cornerstone of the University of Florida Care Program, providing practical experience in critical procedures.
- Clinical ICU Rotations: Two mandatory 12-hour shifts are required for immersive clinical experience within the ICU setting at UF Health Shands Hospital, part of the University of Florida Care Program. Shift options will be available around the skill lab dates. For students within commuting distance, flexible clinical dates may be accommodated.
- Bob Page Seminars (Delivered via Zoom):
- Bob Page’s Multi-Lead Medics 12 Lead, Enhanced Multi-Lead Medics 12 Lead, and Comprehensive Capnography Course: Dates TBD. These specialized seminars, integrated into the University of Florida Care Program, provide advanced knowledge in cardiac and respiratory monitoring.
- Course Conclusion Date: December 16, 2025
Enrollment and Program Costs
Critical Care Paramedic Program at the University of Florida Care Program
The tuition for the live stream Critical Care Paramedic course, a flagship offering of the University of Florida Care Program, is $1,500.00. We offer special pricing arrangements for departments enrolling five or more individuals within the same academic year. Due to the program’s intensive nature and personalized instruction within the University of Florida Care Program, enrollment is limited. Early registration is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Enroll Now for Fall 2025 CCP Registration
Spring 2025 Multi-Lead Medic/Enhanced Multi-Lead Medic/Capnography Seminars with Bob Page via Zoom – Integrated into the University of Florida Care Program
Spring 2025 Dates: March 3-4, 2025. Attendance is mandatory for all currently enrolled CCP students as these seminars are a core component of the course curriculum. These sessions are conducted live and are not recorded to ensure an interactive learning environment.
Recertification for the University of Florida Care Program CCP Certification
The University of Florida Care Program Critical Care Paramedic Certification is valid for four years, underscoring the program’s commitment to ongoing professional development. Recertification can be achieved through two pathways:
- Completion of 100 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) specifically focused on Critical Care topics.
- Holding a current Flight Paramedic Certification (FP-C) or Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C) from the Board for Critical Care Transport Paramedic Certification (BCCTPC) with at least two years remaining validity beyond the UF CCP expiration date.
UF CCP certified paramedics can initiate the recertification process within six months prior to their certification expiration date, ensuring continuous certification and professional standing.
Recertification via Continuing Education Units within the University of Florida Care Program
Certified UF CCP professionals opting for recertification through CEUs must provide verifiable documentation of 100 contact hours in critical care related topics. It’s important to note that standard certifications such as ACLS, PALS, PEPP, CPR, ITLS, PHTLS, ASLS, and AMLS do not qualify as critical care contact hours for recertification purposes. Qualifying activities typically include lectures and sessions from advanced critical care conferences like AMTC or similar specialized events. If you have questions regarding the eligibility of a specific course or conference for critical care CEUs under the University of Florida Care Program recertification, please contact us for clarification before enrolling in the activity.
Recertification via FP-C or CCP-C Exams through the University of Florida Care Program
For UF CCP certified paramedics choosing to recertify using their FP-C or CCP-C certifications, this is permissible provided that the BCCTPC certification remains valid for at least two years beyond the expiration date of the UF CCP certification. Applicants must provide official documentation of their FP-C or CCP-C certification, including the expiration date. The University of Florida Care Program will independently verify the certification status and validity through the BCCTPC to ensure accuracy and compliance. Please note that no other certifications issued by the BCCTPC are accepted for UF CCP recertification.
Recertification Procedure for the University of Florida Care Program CCP Certification
To initiate recertification, please email Judy Johnson at [email protected] when you are ready to begin the process. Once your submitted information is verified, a new certification will be issued. Your original UF CCP number will be retained with your recertification. The recertification fee is $50.00. Please allow up to 14 business days for processing your recertification request.
Replacement Certifications from the University of Florida Care Program
To request a replacement UF CCP certification, email Judy Johnson at [email protected] with your name as it appeared on your original certification, your UF CCP number, and current contact information. A $25.00 fee applies for replacement certificate processing. Payment instructions will be provided to you upon request. Please allow up to 10 business days for processing. You will be notified via email once your replacement certificate has been mailed.
Frequently Asked Questions about the University of Florida Care Program CCP
Is paramedic certification mandatory for course enrollment in the University of Florida Care Program?
Yes. Only currently certified state or nationally registered paramedics are eligible to enroll and obtain certification through the University of Florida Care Program. While Registered Nurses have their own critical care certifications, RNs who also hold paramedic certification are welcome to participate in our program to enhance their skills and knowledge in critical care transport as paramedics.
Can I challenge the UF CCP certification exam if I already hold another critical care certification?
No, the University of Florida Care Program requires full course completion for certification. While numerous critical care certification courses are available, the UF CCP program is unique in its comprehensive approach, offering over 160 hours of instruction combining didactic learning and clinical application. All paramedics seeking UF CCP certification must enroll in and successfully complete the entire program to ensure they meet our rigorous standards and benefit from the complete educational experience.
Can I attend individual lectures for CEUs if I hold another critical care certification?
No. The University of Florida Care Program‘s live stream format requires formal registration with the University of Florida and the creation of a GatorLink account for access and participation. Individual lecture attendance for CEUs outside of full program enrollment is not available.
What prerequisite certifications are necessary or recommended?
While not mandatory for enrollment, the University of Florida Care Program highly recommends current certifications in AHA ACLS, AHA PALS or PEPP, and ITLS or PHTLS to ensure students possess a strong foundation in basic and advanced life support principles prior to commencing the advanced critical care curriculum.
Can recent paramedic graduates enroll in the University of Florida Care Program?
Generally, no. The University of Florida Care Program has observed higher success rates among paramedics with at least one year of field experience. This intensive course delves into advanced topics beyond basic paramedic training, assuming a solid foundation in 911 emergency response. However, exceptions may be considered for candidates nearing the one-year experience mark.
What is the total cost of the University of Florida Care Program CCP course?
Course tuition is $1,500. Special pricing is available for departments enrolling 5 or more participants within the same academic year. Please contact us to discuss group enrollment options and pricing.
What is the refund policy for the University of Florida Care Program?
Unless otherwise specified for particular programs, refund requests must be submitted in writing at least 10 days before the course start date. A $25.00 processing fee will be applied to approved refunds. For requests received within 10 days prior to the course start up to the end of the first week, a 10% fee will be deducted. No refunds will be issued after the first week of class commencement. Refund requests can be sent via mail, email, or fax to the contact information provided. The University of Florida Care Program reserves the right to modify or cancel courses due to unforeseen circumstances or insufficient enrollment. In the event of cancellation or postponement, all registrants will receive full refunds. The University of Florida is not responsible for any ancillary expenses incurred by registrants.
UF CCP Contact Information:
Tel: (352) 273-1170
336 Rinker Hall
Fax: (352) 846-2772
Gainesville, Florida 32611
Email: [email protected]
Can I reserve a spot in the University of Florida Care Program and pay later?
We regret that spots cannot be held without full payment. Enrollment is processed on a first-come, first-served basis upon receipt of complete payment.
How often is recertification required for the UF CCP certification?
The UF CCP certification from the University of Florida Care Program is valid for 4 years. Recertification is required every four years and can be achieved through one of two methods outlined previously (CEUs or BCCTPC certification).
Is a computer required for the online University of Florida Care Program course?
Yes, a laptop or tablet with reliable internet access is necessary. Students can utilize the UF WiFi network while on campus for in-person components. All lectures, assignments, quizzes, and examinations are administered online, necessitating consistent internet access throughout the program.
Are practical skills performed during clinical rotations in the University of Florida Care Program?
Yes, clinical rotations at UF Health Shands Hospital are designed to provide hands-on experience. Under the guidance of a preceptor, students may perform any skill within the scope of practice for a critical care paramedic, including arterial line insertion, chest tube management, rapid sequence intubation, and advanced medication administration. As UF Health Shands Hospital is a teaching institution, opportunities to perform specific skills may vary based on patient needs and availability.
Will this course prepare me for the FP-C or CCP-C exams?
While the University of Florida Care Program CCP course is not explicitly designed as an FP-C or CCP-C exam preparation course, it comprehensively covers the core concepts and clinical reasoning skills essential for critical care paramedics. The FP-C and CCP-C exams, administered by the BCCTPC, assess the knowledge of experienced flight and ground critical care paramedics. Many critical care transport programs value or even require these certifications for employment consideration. The primary focus of the University of Florida Care Program is to cultivate advanced clinical thinking and practical competence, which are fundamental to success in both real-world critical care scenarios and professional certification exams. Historically, graduates of the UF CCP program have demonstrated high success rates on certification exams due to the program’s robust curriculum and emphasis on clinical application.
When can I enroll in the University of Florida Care Program live stream class?
Enrollment for future courses typically opens approximately 5 months prior to the class start date. Registration for each class closes at the end of the first week of instruction. Enrollment is capped at 150 students per session, and once capacity is reached, registration will close without a waiting list. Prospective students are encouraged to enroll early to secure their place.
Is on-campus attendance required for distance learning students in the University of Florida Care Program?
Yes, distance learning students are required to attend specific on-campus sessions to complete mandatory components of the University of Florida Care Program, including hands-on labs and clinical rotations. There are three required on-campus days:
- Day 1: Cadaver and Advanced Skills Laboratories – Essential for practical skill development within the University of Florida Care Program.
- Day 2 & 3: Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Clinical Rotations at UF Health Shands Hospital – Providing real-world clinical experience, a hallmark of the University of Florida Care Program.
The Bob Page 2-day seminars, while a required part of the curriculum, can be attended at any location where he offers the program, including virtually via Zoom during the University of Florida Care Program course. However, attendance during your enrollment period is mandatory. The cadaver lab component must be completed in person at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. Students unable to attend their initially scheduled on-campus session may attend the live session during the subsequent course offering to fulfill this requirement.
What is the live stream lecture schedule for the University of Florida Care Program?
Specific days and times for live stream lectures will be announced at the course commencement. Typically, lectures may be scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1700-1900 EST. While we strive to maintain this schedule, occasional adjustments may be necessary due to instructor availability. Any deviations from the standard schedule will be communicated well in advance to allow students to plan accordingly.
What if I miss a live lecture in the University of Florida Care Program?
All live stream lectures are recorded and made available to students. If you are unable to attend a live session, you can access the recording at your convenience to ensure you do not miss any critical information.
Is attendance mandatory for the live stream lectures in the University of Florida Care Program?
No, live lecture attendance is not mandatory. While attending live lectures is beneficial for direct interaction and real-time question and answer sessions, we understand that scheduling conflicts can arise. The availability of recorded lectures provides flexibility for students to learn at their own pace and schedule.
How do I replace a lost UF CCP certification from the University of Florida Care Program?
To request a replacement certificate, please email Judy Johnson at [email protected], providing your name as it appeared on your certification, your UF CCP number, and current contact details. A $25.00 replacement fee is applicable, and payment instructions will be provided. Please allow up to 10 business days for processing and certificate mailing. You will receive an email notification once your certificate is mailed.
Who can I contact for unanswered questions about the University of Florida Care Program?
For any further questions not addressed on this page, please contact Judy Johnson via email at [email protected] or call 352-273-1170. If leaving a voicemail, please include your name and a contact phone number for a prompt response.
