The EMT-Basic is the first component of the emergency medical technician system. An EMT trained at this level is prepared to care for patients at the scene of an accident and while transporting patients by ambulance to the hospital under medical direction. The EMT-Basic has the emergency skills to assess a patient’s condition and manage respiratory, cardiac, and trauma emergencies. The average, annual, full-time salary in Arkansas is $31,800 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics). This salary can vary depending on job location and individual competence.