Paramedicine program fills gap in Monticello

The City of Monticello and the Monticello Fire Department have announced the creation of the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Program, also known as the Community Paramedicine Program.

Through this partnership, the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Program fills the gaps that are prevalent in healthcare, especially in more rural and aging communities. It works to meet a quadruple aim for healthcare:

• Better outcomes

• Improved patient experience

• Improved clinician experience

• Lower healthcare costs

This is accomplished by:

• Increased access and communication with primary care physicians for the medically underserved

• Help with chronic disease management

• Prioritized preventive care and follow-up care for high-risk individuals

In 2021, the Monticello Fire Department and IU Health White Memorial Hospital collaborated on the Community Paramedicine Program pilot project. During the six-month pilot, the Monticello Fire Department saw 50 patients and had a 100% non-readmittance rate.

After the pilot’s success, the West Central Region of IU Health agreed to provide first year funding to establish and sustain this program until further funding can be achieved.

“This partnership will increase access to healthcare for our community in so many ways,” shares Renea Smith, chief nursing officer for IU Health White Memorial Hospital. “We are so excited to partner in support of achieving the best care for those in our community.”

To join the paramedicine program, a patient must be referred by a physician. All physicians, regardless of whether they are affiliated with IU Health, may refer patients in White County to the program.

Services provided upon the orders of the medical team include:

• Assist patient communication with their provider

• Post hospital discharge instruction compliance

• Monitor vital signs

• Provide cardiac monitoring

• Diabetes management

• Fall risk assessment and prevention/in-home safety checks

• Immunizations including influenza and COVID-19 for homebound patients

• Evaluating and assisting patients with individual needs

“IU Health is committed to the belief that healthcare is best delivered locally,” adds Mary Minier, president of IU Health White Memorial Hospital. “This partnership provides our community with another resource to improve our overall community health.”

The Mobile Integrated Healthcare program also received financial support from the Indiana State Department of Health and IU Health White Memorial Hospital. The Community Paramedics will work with other funding agencies and grantors to provide necessary support moving forward.