Registration
Please visit the ‘Scheduling’ tab to sign up for the testing date/location of your choosing. Our scheduling program “Jane” will prompt you to create a profile (this program is HIPAA, PIPEDA, and GDPR-compliant - all of your information will be safely stored). In order to secure your test date, full test payment of $350 CAD + tax is required. You will be emailed pre-test paperwork, this includes:
Informed consent forms & liability waivers
CSEP Get Active Questionnaire
Basic test outline and expectations
Service indicator
You must complete the pre-test paperwork a minimum of 24 hours prior to your test date.
Registration Checklist
Pre-Test Checklist
Successful payment confirmed
CSEP Get Active Questionnaire downloaded and completed
Pre-test intake form completed
Test Day Checklist
Government issued photo ID (please bring to test)
Dress appropriately for physical activity (must wear pants and CSA compliant footwear)
Wear comfortable clothing to be physically active
Arrival Times
Please arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled time slot to complete orientation
Test Preparation
Prior to testing
Avoid strenuous activities 12-48 hours prior to testing.
It is recommended to get 7-9 hours of sleep leading up to this test.
It is recommended to maintain good nutrition leading up to this test.
If you require additional strength development, it is recommended to engage in approximately 8 weeks of strength training leading up to this test. If you are unsure of training parameters, it is advised to seek guidance from a healthcare provider.
Day of Testing
Arrival
Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your test start time (found on your confirmation email).
ID
Have a government issued ID ready.
Pre-Test Paperwork
Your paperwork must be completed and submitted prior to you arriving. If you have any technical issues filling out this paperwork, contact Medic Strong via email (medicstronginfo@gmail.com).
Dresscode
Wear pants and your CSA compliant safety boots and comfortable clothing suitable for physical activities. Avoid loose clothing that may interfere with your movements. Make sure to follow any additional instructions regarding attire or equipment provided by the test administrators.
Test Orientation
You will have an opportunity to watch a demo video of the PFAT prior to your test.
Test Format
The PFAT consists of a series of physical tasks that simulate real work situations. These tasks may include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and other activities specific to the job being evaluated. Each task is performed under standardized conditions to ensure fairness and accuracy.
Test Instructions
Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the test administrators before each task.
Communication
If you experience any pain, discomfort, or concerns during the PFAT, inform the test administrators immediately. Open and clear communication is essential to ensure your well-being and to address any issues that may arise during the testing process.
Results and Feedback
You will receive the results of your test within 72hours of completion - you may receive feedback or a summary of your performance. This feedback can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. If you have any questions or require further clarification regarding your final results, feel free to inquire with the test administrators.
Remember, the PFAT is designed to assess your functional abilities accurately. Approach the test with a positive attitude, give your best effort, and follow the instructions provided to ensure an effective evaluation of your capabilities.
Cancellation Policy
No refund will be provided for cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled test date. Medic Strong reserves the right to reschedule or cancel PFAT appointments.
PFAT Code of Conduct
The paramedic profession places great importance on honesty, integrity, ethical conduct, and professional demeanour.
Respectful Behaviour: All participants must engage in respectful and professional behaviour towards staff, fellow participants, and any other individuals present during the PFAT.
Compliance with Instructions: Participants are required to follow all instructions given by the test administrators regarding the PFAT procedures, safety guidelines, and test protocols.
Honest Representation: Participants must provide accurate and honest information about their abilities, limitations, and any relevant health or medical conditions that may impact their performance during the PFAT.
Non-Discrimination: Discrimination or harassment based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited during the PFAT. All participants must treat others with fairness, equality, and respect.
Safety Awareness: Participants should prioritize their own safety and the safety of others during the PFAT. Any concerns regarding safety hazards or potential risks should be immediately reported to the test administrators.
Confidentiality: Participants must respect the confidentiality and privacy of other participants. Sharing or disclosing personal information without consent is not allowed.
Professional Conduct: Participants should conduct themselves in a professional manner throughout the PFAT. This includes refraining from disruptive behaviour, abusive language, or any action that may compromise the integrity or fairness of the test.
Integrity of Results: Participants must not attempt to deceive, manipulate, or cheat during the PFAT. All test results should reflect the participant's true abilities and performance.
Compliance with Policies and Regulations: Participants are expected to adhere to all applicable policies, regulations, and legal requirements related to the PFAT. This includes compliance with any local, regional, or national laws and guidelines.
Cooperation and Collaboration: Participants should cooperate with the test administrators and other participants to ensure a smooth and efficient testing process.
Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in consequences, including disqualification from the PFAT and potential legal actions, if warranted. Participants are encouraged to raise any concerns or violations of this code to the test administrators or relevant authorities.
FAQ
Pricing/Payment
$350 CAD + tax
When should I arrive?
Arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. Applicants are scheduled in groups throughout the day
How long is the test?
The test must be completed in under 20 minutes from start to finish. Applicants who exceed 20 minutes do not pass
When do I get my results?
You will receive an email of your pass/fail results within 72 hours of completing the PFAT
How do future employers/services get my results?
Your intake form will have a section for you to write the Service(s) you will be applying to. Official results will then be sent to these Service(s).
Who will be administering my test?
An experienced, practicing paramedic will be administering your test
How does scoring work?
The instructions that are provided will be the same for every candidate in order to keep the test standard. Each station will have physical components of the job with a strict score system of minor, major, and critical errors. A combination of minor and major errors or a single critical error can result in an unsuccessful test
What if I don’t pass?
You are eligible to re-take the PFAT after an unsuccessful attempt at the next available test day
How can I fail the PFAT?
Exceeding the 20 minute time limit
A combination of minor and/or major error or a single critical error (compromising safety) can result in an unsuccessful test
Who will my lifting partner be?
Your lifting partner will be an experienced, working paramedic
Which services accept Medic Strong’s PFAT?
To Medic Strong’s knowledge, the following services accept the PFAT:
Essex-Windsor EMS
Chatham-Kent EMS
Middlesex-London Paramedic Service
Lambton County EMS
Elgin EMS
Oneida Nation of the Thames Paramedic Service
Please be aware that this may not be an inclusive list, as some services may accept the PFAT without directly updating Medic Strong.
Paramedic Exercises
What is this?
This link provides you with videos of exercises specifically tailored for the paramedic profession
Videos showcase the execution of physical paramedic tasks alongside instructional exercises aimed at enhancing strength within this domain
How do I access these videos?
Once signed up for the PFAT, you will be provided with a code that allows you access to these videos