The Evidence for Community Paramedicine in Rural Areas: State and Local Findings and the Role of the State Flex Program (Briefing Paper #34)

Authors

Karen B. Pearson MLIS, MA, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
John A. Gale MS, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
George Shaler MPH, University of Southern Maine, Cutler InstituteFollow

Document Type

Briefing Paper

Publication Date

2-2014

Keywords

paramedicine, rural health, MRHRC, Policy, EMS, emergency medical services, health policy, USM Aging Initiative, Health and Wellness

Abstract

Community paramedicine is a quickly evolving field in both rural and urban areas as Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers look to reduce the use of EMS services for non-emergent 911 calls, overcrowding of emergency departments, and healthcare costs. In rural areas, community paramedics help fill gaps in the local delivery system due to shortages of primary care physicians and long travel times to the nearest hospital or clinic. This study examined the evidence base for community paramedicine in rural communities, the role of community paramedics in rural healthcare delivery systems, the challenges faced by states in implementing community paramedicine programs, and the role of the state Flex programs in supporting development of community paramedicine programs. Additionally, this briefing paper provides a snapshot of community paramedicine programs currently being developed and/or implemented in rural areas. Another FMT policy brief summarizes these same findings.

Recommended Citation

Pearson, K. B., Gale, J., & Shaler, G. (2014). The evidence for Community Paramedicine in rural areas: State and local findings and the role of the state Flex program. (Briefing Paper No. 34). Portland, ME: Flex Monitoring Team.