I know people have a lot of varying opinion on this subject, but since I just found out about this a few days ago, I thought I'd share it with people anyways (that is to say, anyone who is at all interested).
I called Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) this past Tuesday, and their ALS exam coordinator said that, yes, it is possible for RN's to challenge the EMT-Intermediate and EMT-Paramedic exams in MA. I had previously heard a rumor that it wasn't possible to go about doing the above. There is a relatively extensive process in place. RN's must first be certified as an EMT-B and then demonstrate a gamut of paramedic skills in front of a Medical Control physician. The candidate must then do the same amount of clinical and field time (getting the same number of skill points) that any other Paramedic School student would go about doing. The candidate must finally challenge the actual written and practical exams for I or P. Candidates must also have a current CPR (Pro Rescuer or Healthcare Provider) card and current ACLS certification (PALS and PHTLS would be helpful too).
Anyways, the website for MA OEMS is:
http://www.state.ma.us/dph/oems
The phone number for MA OEMS is listed on the website. Call MA OEMS and they will send you an info packet with all the of the Administrative Requirements and steps that need to be taken.