Community Paramedic

Job Summary:

The Community Paramedic will provide care and support outside the traditional emergency response role, focusing on preventive and primary care, chronic disease management, and health education within the community. Working collaboratively with healthcare providers, social services, and other community partners, the Community Paramedic will aim to reduce unnecessary hospital visits and enhance access to healthcare, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment & Care: Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' medical, social, and environmental needs in non-emergent settings, including their homes or community centers.
• Chronic Disease Management: Provide ongoing care and monitoring for patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, COPD, and heart disease, to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Health Education: Educate patients and families on health maintenance, medication management, and preventive health measures.
• Care Coordination: Collaborate with healthcare providers, case managers, and social services to develop and follow individualized care plans for patients, ensuring continuity of care and appropriate referrals to medical or social services.
• Preventive Health Screenings: Perform screenings for high-risk conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and substance use, and provide follow-up recommendations.
• Follow-Up Visits: Conduct follow-up visits for patients recently discharged from emergency/inpatient care to help prevent re-admissions by ensuring proper care, medication adherence, and support.
• Health Advocacy: Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, understanding treatment plans, and connecting with community resources.
• Data Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate, confidential records of all patient interactions, treatments provided, and care plans implemented. Prepare regular reports on patient outcomes and community impact.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Certified Paramedic in Ohio
  • Certification or training in Community Paramedicine preferred
• Experience:
  • 2+ years of paramedic experience, preferably in a community health or EMS setting
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse populations
  • Knowledge of chronic disease management and preventive health practices
  • Ability to work independently and make sound clinical decisions in the field
  • Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) and mobile health technology
  • Understanding of the healthcare and social services landscape within the community

Work Conditions:

• Travel Requirements: Travel within the community to patients' homes and various service sites
• Hours: Flexible hours and optional occasional weekends