Oh my where do I start. I work for a private service as well as a county 911 service. I started with the private service so I could learn the different areas of my state as well as the locations of the various trauma and burn centers etc..... I am a EMT-I and I always work with a paramedic. Depending on the call I work in the back on a transport,ie....non ACLS protocal. I also get great experience with pt personal skills,,,,listening to the patient you are transporting to a second level rehab, the pt who is going for a heart cath because of an abnormal EKG and is just looking for someone to talk to.
I enjoy the 911 service as well because I get to use and maintain my "medical" skills. I guess I might be one of the lucky ones. Both of my services are equally good and treat me with respect.