As healthcare changes, a paramedics’ role is expanding. Paramedics no longer only respond to emergency situations in the 911 system. They also visit recently-discharged hospital patients or referred patients in their homes or businesses. This kind of paramedicine, called Community Paramedicine, is helping fill gaps in our healthcare system. Community Paramedics are now improving patient outcomes and experiences, and lowering healthcare costs in non-emergent settings. This expanded role comes with additional education, medical oversight, and consistent program evaluation. Partnerships and collaboration with local stakeholders, leveraging established resources, and a patient-centered focus helps ensure success and positive patient outcomes. Community Paramedic programs can focus on a variety of areas of healthcare. Some of these can include:
- Extension of Primary Care
- Patient Care Coordination and Activation
- Avoidance of Hospital and Emergency Department Admission and Readmission
- Chronic Disease Education, Management, and Prevention
- Mental Health Evaluation
- Expanded Public Health Services
- Wellness Programs
- Emergency Department Diversion and Decrease Use of the 911 System
Community Paramedics all across the nation, and in many other countries, are finding that Community Paramedic programs reduce unnecessary 911 calls and saves both patients and providers in their healthcare costs. With the expanded role of paramedics, Ada County provides additional services and programs to those who need individualized medical care in our community.
Contact information
For more information on the Community Paramedics program, please email: [email protected].