California Plans Community Paramedicine Pilot Programs

A day in the life of a typical paramedic is nothing like that of a primary care provider. Though both are central to the healthcare system, a paramedic performs in a high-stress environment that focuses exclusively on providing emergency medical services, while a primary care physician is more focused on a patient’s long term needs.

That wall between primary care and emergency health care may soon be eroded, however. California’s Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) and Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) are working together to implement community paramedicine pilot programs, which would expand paramedic and EMS responsibilities in order to fill healthcare gaps.

According to Lou Meyer of EMSA, up to 12 locations in California will be selected to take part in these programs starting as early as next summer.

Read the full article: The paramedic will see you now